Jeep Renegade is much more than a design darling among small SUVs. Renegade has capable off-road chops, and is a smooth passenger and cargo carrier for daily commutes. Responsive ride and handling characteristics were readily evident during a week-long evaluation. From a safety perspective, Renegade’s fast-acting brakes earn accolades from this driver. The tested SUV’s standard safety technologies include front and rear side curtain airbags. When equipped with Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning-Plus and LED projector headlamps with optional automatic high-beam control, Renegade scores the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick Rating.

The tested Jeep Renegade Limited 4x4 was powered by a standard 1.3-liter turbocharged 4- cylinder producing 177 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 210 lbs-ft torque at 1750 rpm. Engine mates to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Renegade is offered in four main trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. The 101.2-inch wheelbase 4x4 Renegade has an 8.0-inch ground clearance, 21-degree approach angle, 24-degree breakover angle, and 32.1-degree departure angle. Cargo space with rear seat upright is 18.5 cubic feet and increases to 50.8 cubic feet with rear seat folded. Tested Jeep Renegade Limited 4x4 collects estimated mpg of 23 city and 29 highway and carries a base MSRP of $28,145.