Jeep has just announced details for the newly refreshed Renegade. The company's smallest model gets some slight styling changes but a brand-new engine and gearbox on top trims.
It's one of those unusual automotive trim quirks that sees the up-level engine actually offer less horsepower than the entry-level option, that one being the 2.4L four that's standard on Sport and Latitude trims. The 2.4L engine makes 180 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. Optional on those trims and standard on Limited and Trailhawk is an all-new 1.3L turbo four. It doesn't quite replace last year's 1.4L Multiair turbo four, it leapfrogs it.
The 1.3 is now the top engine instead of the base engine the now discontinued 1.4 was previously. The new engine's 177 hp is three less than the 2.4 offers, but its 200 lb-ft of torque is a healthy 25 lb-ft up on the NA engine. More importantly, those 200 lb-ft arrive at just 1,750 rpm instead of 3,900 in the 2.4.
Combined with a nine-speed automatic, Jeep says the new engine will improve fuel economy and lower emissions. It's combined with active grille shutters (except on Trailhawk) and start-stop. It will run on 87 octane, but Jeep recommends 91. The new driveline includes a slightly higher 21:1 crawl ratio that gives it a bit more low-range shove off-road with Active Drive Low. The six-speed manual of the 1.4 is gone.
The styling changes include new front fascias that LED lighting on some trims. It looks more like the new 2018 Jeep Wrangler's front-end treatment. There's also a new lower air intake and more body-colour trim depending on which one you pick. There are new taillights in the rear as well. Nineteen-inch alloys are available on Latitude and Limited trims.
Jeep has added some features to the active safety suite. The available Advanced Tech Group now offers adaptive cruise, parallel/perpendicular park assist, and front parking sensors.
Jeep says that the new Renegade should hit dealers by the end of the year, with pricing to follow.
You may also like
