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. Â 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. Â Head of Jeep design, Mark Allen, described the styling as inspired by the Wrangler, but with a playful spin. Â Jeep uses its proprietary Active Drive 4×4 system, which is also utilized in the Jeep Cherokee. Â The power-take-off style four wheel drive system has an efficiency benefit of fully disconnecting power to the rear wheel when not needed. Â 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. Â The Renegade’s base price will start with a “1”, so it will be affordable. Â 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’.
