What is the buzz about the all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade? It’s a small crossover / hatchback vehicle with 4×4 and an available manual transmission. It promises to be efficient and affordable. Jeep’s storied “Renegade” nameplate adds a bit of controversy. It is based on the FIAT 500L platform and will be build in Italy and sold in nearly 100 countries around the globe.
Then there is the endearing styling of the thing. Head of Jeep design, Mark Allen, described the styling as inspired by the Wrangler, but with a playful spin. Jeep uses its proprietary Active Drive 4×4 system, which is also utilized in the Jeep Cherokee. The power-take-off style four wheel drive system has an efficiency benefit of fully disconnecting power to the rear wheel when not needed. Jeep says that the highway MPG estimate will start with a “3”.
The new Renegade will likely compete against the Subaru XV Crosstrek and the Chevy Trax, although there are not too many vehicles in this segment. The Renegade’s base price will start with a “1”, so it will be affordable. The XV Crosstrek starts at $21,995 before destination charges.
Watch this fun and informative – Almost Everything You Wanted to Know – video walk-around of the 2015 Jeep Renegade with head of Jeep design – Mark Allen.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been writing and reporting at TFL since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.
