The Jeep Renegade: A Comprehensive Review
The Jeep Renegade is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Jeep. It was first introduced in 2014 and is currently in its second generation. The Renegade was designed to be a capable and affordable off-roader that is also practical for everyday use.
The Renegade was developed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and is based on the Small Wide 4×4 platform. It shares its platform with the Fiat 500X and is produced in Melfi, Italy. The Renegade features a distinctive boxy design that is reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler.
The Renegade received a facelift in 2018 that included updated exterior styling, new engines, and a revised interior. In 2019, Jeep introduced a new range-topping trim level called the Trailhawk that is designed for serious off-road use.
Technical Specifications of the Jeep Renegade
- Body and Chassis
- The Renegade is a subcompact crossover SUV that seats up to five passengers. It has a length of 166.6 inches, a width of 74.2 inches, and a height of 66.5 inches. The Renegade has a ground clearance of 6.7 inches and a curb weight of around 3,200 pounds.
- Engine and Transmission
- The Renegade is available with two engine options: a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 1.3-liter engine produces 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.4-liter engine produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The Renegade comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
- Suspension and Brakes
- The Renegade features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a rear multi-link suspension. It has disc brakes on all four wheels and comes standard with anti-lock brakes.
- Performance and Fuel Economy
- The Renegade has a top speed of around 120 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 9 seconds. The 1.3-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the 2.4-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Jeep Renegade Features and Options
The Renegade comes standard with features like power windows and locks, air conditioning, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels add features like a sunroof, heated front seats, and a premium audio system.
The Renegade is available with a Uconnect infotainment system that includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trim levels add features like a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen display, built-in navigation, and a nine-speaker audio system.
The Renegade comes standard with a rearview camera and rear parking sensors. Higher trim levels add features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Jeep Renegade Driving and Handling
The Renegade is designed to be a capable off-roader, and it delivers on that promise. It has impressive ground clearance and comes with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system, which allows the driver to select different driving modes for different terrain. On the road, the Renegade is comfortable and easy to drive.
The Renegade is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, thanks to its compact size and good visibility. It has responsive steering and a comfortable ride.
The Renegade has a spacious and comfortable interior, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the controls are easy to use.
Conclusion
The Jeep Renegade is a capable and practical subcompact crossover SUV that is designed to be a capable off-roader. It has a distinctive design, a comfortable interior, and a range of features and options.
The Renegade’s strengths include its off-road capability, comfortable interior, and range of features and options. Its weaknesses include its sluggish acceleration and average fuel economy. Overall, the Renegade is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a subcompact crossover SUV.