The 2023 Jeep Renegade is one of the brand’s most affordable vehicles. U.S. News recently reviewed it and is hesitant to recommend it to others. What did the publication think about the model, and why don’t they like the new Jeep Renegade? Also, what are some better options?

Good and bad things about the 2023 Jeep Renegade

U.S. News had some positive things to say about the Renegade. First, they liked that it comes with the Trailhawk trim, the model’s off-road offering. Also, it comes with a nice set of standard driver’s assistance features, like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and forward automatic emergency braking.

But, overall, the site wasn’t pleased with the newest model year of the Renegade. The engine plays a large part in their dislike of it. Its 1.3-liter four-cylinder, combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission, produces 177 hp. But it doesn’t give enough zip. Acceleration time for a 0 to 60 mph run is a whopping 9.5 seconds, according to U.S. News. 

Other features that disappointed the reviewers were the fuel economy ratings and cheap-looking interior. As far as fuel savings, you’re not going to get much. The Jeep Renegade is rated for 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is pretty poor for a subcompact SUV, especially when plenty of other similar SUVs offer much more.

The cabin has a lot of hard plastic, which cheapens the look of the interior. Also, when driving the Renegade down the road, you’ll notice a lot of wind, road, and engine noises coming into the interior. 

What reasons would you have to buy the 2023 Jeep Renegade?

U.S. News may have been disappointed with the 2023 model, but they agree that there are a couple of reasons why someone would want to buy this vehicle despite its shortcomings. 

First, the Renegade can tow up to 2,000 lbs, which is unheard of for a subcompact SUV. You’ll need to properly equip the model with features to support hauling heavier items. 

The biggest reason to buy this Jeep is its off-road capability. The Trailhawk version will add skid plates, hill descent control, tow hooks, rain-sensing windshield wipers, 17-inch wheels, and extra drive modes for various types of terrain, like mud and snow.

What are some better options to spend your money on?

Still, the Renegade may not be worth the money, at least not until Jeep offers a better engine and spruces up the interior a bit. If you’re looking for a subcompact SUV, you’re better off spending your money elsewhere. 

One alternative to check out is the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive and is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which produces 137 hp. 

However, the higher trims will offer a 2.5-liter producing 182 hp, which is better than the Renegade’s 1.3-liter engine. The Crosstrek has an optional manual transmission for some trims, but you’ll have to sacrifice some of the standard features. 

Another good option to choose is the Honda HR-V. The 2023 model comes with some improvements. One of them is its engine, which is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 158 hp. For fuel economy, you can expect about 26 mpg on city roads and 32 mpg when traveling on the highway. 

The Renegade offers some appeal with its off-road capability and its towing capacity for a subcompact SUV. However, U.S. News feels there are too many drawbacks and recommends seeking an alternative like the Crosstrek or the Honda HR-V.