The 2020 Jeep Renegade Has 1 Clunky Problem
The 2020 Jeep Renegade is pretty great all around. It just has one clunky problem. This issue isn’t exactly a deal-breaker, though, and could even be considered subjective. See if the Jeep Renegade is the right fit or if it needs to be avoided.
The 2020 Jeep Renegade is slow
When you see a cute little SUV like the Kia Soul, Mini Cooper, or Jeep Renegade, then you want it to go fast. However, the 2020 Jeep Renegade doesn’t move fast enough for critics. You’ll find notes from MotorTrend and other sources that plague the Jeep Renegade with lackluster reviews due to its limited power.
The engine just feels a little slow and clunky. You’ll find a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque under the hood. You can also upgrade to the 1.3-liter turbocharged direct-injection engine for 177 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque for more pep.
You can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.7 seconds, which is average. The infamous Toyota RAV4 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, so does .5 seconds really make a huge difference? Also, the Subaru Crosstrek is the Renegade’s largest competitor, and it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds.
In the Jeep Renegade, we have gotten up to highway speeds and passed people without any problems. Personally, I’ve felt nervous about turning out of parking lots into fast traffic. But that could be because I’m more of a cautious driver instead of a speed demon through town.
How is the Jeep Renegade transmission?
Your Jeep Renegade engine options are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission that receives mixed reviews. Some critics say it has adequate performance for daily commutes but lacks an athletic ride.
Others say that the transmission gets easily confused. It can lag when it comes to shifting gears and can select the wrong gear. It seems to have an occasional stutter. But this doesn’t mean the Renegade isn’t fun to drive.
Drivers leave positive feedback about agile handling, precise steering, a smooth and comfortable ride, and more. Plus, it has off-roading chops that outshine rivals.
For a sportier drive, consider the Mazda CX-5, but for snow, dirt roads, climbs, and more, go with the Jeep Renegade. It’s for adventuring, not racing.
2020 Jeep Renegade positives
The 2020 Jeep Renegade is bigger than expected on the inside. It has 18.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 50.8 cubic feet of cargo space when the seats are folded down. This is more than enough room for two adults and the dog to go on vacation. Plus, the seats have plenty of head and legroom.
The tech is modern and easy to use with features like remote start, dual automatic climate zones, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. You’ll find plenty of USB ports and even a 120-volt plug in the rear to power multiple devices.
Also, the ride is comfortable, and the cabin is filled with refined materials. It doesn’t feel cheap, and the cute Jeep Easter eggs are fun to find. The Jeep Renegade serves as the perfect nimble Jeep that’s easy to park in tight city areas and excellent for taking you far off the pavement on the weekends.
