Jeep Renegade: European Version Detailed for Q4 2014 Launch
Jeep’s smallest SUV, the Renegade, receives its full European specification ahead of a Q4 2014 showroom debut, with Italian production and a broad engine line-up.
Jeep has released full details of the European-spec Renegade, confirming the line-up, engine options and production plans for its new entry-level SUV. The Renegade, which goes on sale across Europe in the fourth quarter of 2014, is the first Jeep to be built in Italy and will be available in more than 100 markets worldwide.
The Renegade sits on Fiat’s platform, shared with the Fiat 500L and closely related to the Fiat 500X. Jeep will offer the Renegade in five trims for Europe: the launch Opening Edition, Sport, Longitude, Limited and the off-road-focused Trailhawk. Its compact footprint makes it the smallest Jeep yet, positioned below the Cherokee in the brand’s European range.
Engine line-up and transmissions
Jeep’s European Renegade range takes its engines from Fiat’s existing units. Petrol buyers can choose between a 120hp 1.6-litre E.torQ, a 140hp 1.4-litre MultiAir2 turbo, and a 170hp version of the same MultiAir2. Diesel options include 120hp and 170hp 2.0-litre MultiJet II engines. In Russia, a 185hp 2.4-litre Tigershark MultiAir will also be available. Gearbox options span a pair of manuals, a dual-dry clutch semi-automatic, and a nine-speed automatic, the latter a first in the small SUV segment.
- 1.6 E.torQ petrol (120hp)
- 1.4 MultiAir2 petrol (140hp, 170hp)
- 2.0 MultiJet II diesel (120hp, 170hp)
- 2.4 Tigershark MultiAir (185hp, Russia only)
Lower-powered versions offer front-wheel drive, while higher trims and the Trailhawk bring two 4x4 systems: Jeep Active Drive and Jeep Active Drive Low. The Trailhawk is expected to be the most capable off-road, in line with Jeep’s brand image.
Production and availability
Production of the Renegade takes place in Melfi, Italy, marking a shift for Jeep as the first time one of its models is built outside North America for global export. This move ties the Renegade closely to Fiat’s European operations, reflecting the integration of Jeep into the Fiat Chrysler group. The car is set to reach showrooms in Europe during the last quarter of 2014. Jeep expects the Renegade to appeal to urban buyers looking for a compact SUV with off-road credibility.
Position in the market
The Renegade enters a growing segment of compact SUVs, competing with models such as the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur. Its Fiat-based platform and engine line-up are aimed at European tastes, but Jeep’s focus on four-wheel drive and a rugged image distinguishes it from many rivals. The Renegade’s arrival also coincides with the launch of the related Fiat 500X, which shares much of its underpinnings but targets a different buyer.
For more on the Renegade’s debut and concept versions, seeJeep Renegade Makes World Debut at 2014 Geneva Motor Show.
