Jeep's smallest SUV is an example of how globalization works in the automotive industry: it carries the Jeep badge, but it's built in Italy by Fiat on a platform shared with the 500X. It's the first product built from scratch by the Fiat-Chrysler conglomerate and a global model. In range-topping Trailhawk trim, the Renegade is the best of its class when it comes to off-road capabilities, featuring an advanced all-wheel drive system with low-range as well as improved ground clearance, approach and departure angles.
PROS & CONS
Pros
Strong Points
- Spacious Interior
- Very Competent Off-Road (Trailhawk Version)
- Economical Diesel Engines (In Europe)
Recommended Versions
- Trailhawk (For Off-Road)
Cons
Weak Points
- Average Fuel Economy (Gasoline Engines)
- Average Cargo Capacity
- Cramped Rear Seats
Stay Away From
- 1.4 Turbo Engine (Only Available With A Manual Transmission)
Attention
Known Problems & Recalls
- Some 2015 Jeep Renegade Models Were Recalled In September 2014 To Fix Radio Software Vulnerabilities That Would Have Allowed Third-Party Access To Certain Network Vehicle Control Systems
CAR DETAILS
Drive
Powertrain
The Jeep Renegade is available with two four-cylinder powertrains in the United States: a 1.4-liter turbo with 160 hp and a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter with 180 hp. Since both engines are relatively close in terms of power, the choice hinges on the customer's preference for a turbocharged or a naturally-aspirated engine. The smaller engine delivers power quicker and produces slightly more torque (184 lb-ft vs. 175 lb-ft), but the 2.4 releases stronger and more progressive low-rpm torque. As usual, the Europeans are more spoiled for choice, with Jeep offering four diesel engines there: a 120 PS 1.6-liter, a 140 PS 2.0-liter, and a 170 PS 2.0-liter. European markets also get an entry-level 1.6-liter E-torQ gasoline engine with 110 PS.
Handling
Although the Renegade is rather tall for its class, most reviewers have noticed it handles well in corners. 2WD models are obviously better on-road given their lower mass and ground clearance, but 4WD versions are in no way struggling on the asphalt. Still, they lean more in corners. The electric power steering feels direct and precise (except at low speeds), while the ride is rather refined and composed at highway speeds. The nine-speed automatic transmission (standard on 2.4, optional on 1.4) works smoothly but can also make heavy gear changes at low speeds along with long downshifts for highway passing.
Safety
The Jeep Renegade has received good ratings from both IIHS and Euro NCAP (the NHTSA hasn't assessed it yet). In IIHS' crash tests, the Renegade received an "Acceptable" rating for Small Front Overlap impact, "Good" ratings for Moderate Front Overlap, Side and Roof Strength impacts, and an "Acceptable" rating for Head restraints & seats. As for Front Crash Prevention, IIHS gave the SUV the top "Advanced" rating. Euro NCAP gave the Renegade an overall five-star rating. Standard safety features include ABS, traction and stability control, seven airbags (including driver knee airbag) and a hill-start assist system.
Interior
Comfort
All models deliver a comfortable ride, and the Renegade never feels unstable or harsh thanks to the suspension that soaks up road irregularities admirably. The driving position is good (if rather tall), and most of the buttons are where you would expect them to be. The big door mirrors may look cool, but they are responsible for pronounced wind noise at highway speeds. The seats are a little hard and flat for long trips. Front visibility suffers because of the thick A-pillars while the thicker C-pillars and small rear window hinder visibility even more.
Quality
The Jeep Renegade's cabin has a solid feel, utilitarian even, which suits the brand's character. In this respect, the small SUV distinguishes itself from rivals with more conventional passenger car-like interiors. The overall impression is of a fun car: lively color combinations and Jeep-themed logos and designs certainly contribute to that. The dashboard and armrests feature soft-touch materials, but some hard plastics find their way in less exposed areas.
Practicality
The Renegade's boxy design does more than just give the car a robust appearance – perhaps, more importantly, it contributes to a very spacious interior for a car of this class. While the Renegade is relatively short, it's taller and significantly wider than most of its rivals, resulting in abundant headroom for all passengers and plenty of legroom in front. In the backseat legroom is tight, though, but three-across seating is possible thanks to the vehicle's width. Trunk size is adequate for most people, offering 18.5 cubic feet with all seats up (loaded up to the roof) and increases to 50.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Infotainment
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' UConnect is better than most infotainment systems found on the Renegade's rivals. Offered as standard from the Limited grade upwards the system features an upgraded 6.5-inch touchscreen that is responsive and loaded with features. UConnect also gives access to the Yelp local search and UConnect Access apps on owners' smartphones. UConnect Access‘ text-to-speech and speech-to-text features work well. For an additional fee, Jeep also offers a WiFi hotspot. The Limited grade adds a display in the instrument cluster with more detailed trip computer information.
Budget
Efficiency
Models equipped with the standard 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine are more economical than those powered by the 2.4-liter unit. The Renegade 1.4 with 2WD returns 27 mpg combined with either the standard six-speed manual and optional automatic transmission while the Renegade 2.4 with 2WD averages 25 mpg combined with the nine-speed auto. In 4WD configuration, the Renegade 1.4 returns 27 mpg combined while the 2.4 averages 24 mpg combined. In Europe, the most economical Renegade is the one equipped with a 1.6-liter diesel that returns 4.4 l/100 km in FWD configuration.
Equipment
2016 Jeep Renegade models are available in four grades: Sport, Latitude, Trailhawk, and Limited. Standard equipment for the base Sport trim level includes 16-inch steel wheels, power windows and locks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, keyless entry, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, and a four-speaker sound system with an auxiliary jack and a USB port. Equipment increases with each trim level, with Trailhawk and Limited models packing the most features.
Acquisition
2016 Jeep Renegade starts from $17,995 (Sport trim with FWD), making it about $1,200 cheaper than the base 2016 Honda HR-V. The Renegade is more affordable than 2016 Chevrolet Trax ($20,300) or 2016 Nissan Juke ($20,250) as well. While Jeep's smallest model is a decent offering as a base FWD model, it's in 4WD Trailhawk configuration that it reigns supreme over all its competitors when it comes to off-road capability. Still, if you don't need all that 4×4 prowess, some rivals manage to deliver a better overall package.