Jeep is a powerhouse when it comes to creating bold, charismatic SUVs. Jeep’s beastliest option is the Wrangler, while the Grand Cherokee prioritizes comfort and luxuriousness. But what is Jeep’s smallest SUV?

The Renegade is the smallest Jeep

If you are particularly interested in Jeep’s smallest SUV, then look no further than the Renegade. Jeep first introduced the Renegade for the 2015 model year. This Jeep has attracted many drivers thanks to its quirky color options and distinctive boxy shape.

Driving dynamics 

In addition to its looks, the Renegade stands out in the small SUV class because of its off-road potential. Like its larger siblings, the Renegade offers a Trailhawk variant that can maneuver mud, sand, snow, and rocky terrain. It can even horse around in waters 19” deep. 

Aside from the Trailhawk trim, the Renegade is very much like a regular car, as Consumer Reports highlights. The 2020 model comes standard with a 180-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Reviewers like CR wish that the Renenage provided more “giddyup” since it can feel underpowered. 

For a quicker experience, you’ll want to consider the Renegade’s upper-level trims, which include the Limited and the Trailhawk. These trims feature a 177-hp turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder. The nine-speed automatic is also standard on these variants. 

As far as fuel efficiency goes, the Renegade is average for the subcompact SUV class. In CR’s 2020 road test, the Renegade returned 24 mpg overall. Expect to pay about $1,225 annually for fuel, CR says. 

Interior elements 

The Renegade’s quirky style continues on the inside thanks to its color trimming options. This Jeep can seat up to five people, and its boxy shape contributes to generous headspace. However, some passengers will long for more legroom, especially in the back row. 

When it comes to in-car tech, the Renegade offers many gadgets. The 2020 Renegade comes with a simple 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connection, and a decent stereo system. For more infotainment features, you’ll want to upgrade with a larger touchscreen and add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A few advanced safety functions are also available, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. In fact, you’ll want to consider the 2021 version for more standard safety features. 

Is the Jeep Renegade reliable?

The Renegade has been pretty popular with buyers, but it’s not as favorable with critics. This is especially true regarding predicted reliability. For example, CR named the 2020 model one of the most unreliable subcompact SUVs of the year. 

CR’s reliability score relates to past recall actions concerning the Renegade’s brakes and power equipment. Because of the Renegade’s past issues, you may want to avoid this Jeep, new or used. But if you have your heart set on a new Renegade, consider getting Jeep’s extended warranty for additional protection.