2015 Jeep Renegade surfaces online ahead of Geneva debut
First images of the 2015 Jeep Renegade appeared online just hours before its official unveiling at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, revealing Jeep’s new compact SUV.
Images of the 2015 Jeep Renegade appeared online on 3 March 2014, ahead of the model’s official debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The leak revealed Jeep’s new entry in the compact SUV segment, showing the production version for the first time and confirming its imminent arrival in European showrooms.
The Renegade, previously known by working names including Junior, Laredo and Jeepster, is Jeep’s attempt to capture buyers in the fast-growing small SUV market. The leaked images show a boxy, upright design with signature Jeep cues: round headlights, a seven-slot grille and pronounced wheel arches. The model name, Renegade, revives a badge last seen on a Jeep concept at the 2008 Detroit show.
Jeep has positioned the Renegade as its new entry-level model, targeting urban buyers and those seeking a compact footprint without sacrificing the brand’s off-road image. The Renegade is expected to be around 4,250 mm long, making it the smallest Jeep in the current line-up. According to early information, the car will feature all-wheel drive and may offer a removable roof, though full technical details have yet to be confirmed.
Design and platform details
The leaked images confirm a design that leans heavily on Jeep’s heritage, but the underpinnings are expected to come from the Fiat Panda 4x4. This would make the Renegade the first Jeep to use a Fiat-based platform since Fiat’s takeover of Chrysler. The combination is aimed at giving the Renegade both city-friendly dimensions and genuine off-road capability, a balance few rivals in the segment attempt.
Market positioning and expectations
Jeep’s move into the compact SUV class is a direct response to growing demand for small crossovers in Europe and other regions. The Renegade is expected to compete with the likes of the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008. Its arrival also marks a shift for Jeep, which historically focused on larger, more rugged 4x4s.
Dealers and buyers will see the Renegade for the first time at the Geneva show on 4 March 2014, with further details on engines, interior options and pricing to follow at the event. Early reports suggest the car will reach showrooms later in 2014, with a full range of petrol and diesel engines likely to be confirmed for European markets.
- Boxy, upright styling with Jeep signature details
- Expected all-wheel drive and possible removable roof
- Fiat Panda 4x4 platform for compact size and off-road ability
- Targeted at European urban buyers and global markets
For more on the Jeep Renegade’s Geneva debut and the full technical rundown as it is announced, see Jeep Renegade Makes World Debut at 2014 Geneva Motor Show.
