2019 Jeep Renegade Sport - Compact SUV with Modern Features (AND OFF-ROAD TEST)
2019 Jeep Renegade Sport - Compact SUV with Modern Features (AND OFF-ROAD TEST with all JEEP models). Smaller, torquier, more powerful, and more fuel efficient. So goes the march of progress, as demonstrated by the Renegade's new turbo engine, which shrinks by 68cc but gains all-aluminum construction, direct injection, and loads of other recently learned engine-tuning tricks to add 17 hp and 16 lb-ft of torque for 177 and 200 total. This spanking-new 1.3-liter GSE (Global Small Engine) dubbed Firefly becomes the Renegade's upmarket offering. It will come standard on Limited and Trailhawk models and will be optional on the base trims, while the naturally aspirated 180-hp, 175-lb-ft Tigershark 2.4-liter becomes the base engine. Also broomed: The six-speed manual that formerly backed the 1.4-liter has been replaced by a newly refined nine-speed automatic. Fuel economy is said to have improved, with a target of boosting the highway figure from 27 to 32 mpg unofficially (final testing was incomplete as of press time). Mind you, Jeep's motivation for making this change has vastly less to do with delighting Renegade owners and everything to do with offsetting the fuel economy of the immensely more profitable big-engine Grand Cherokees. Along with the powertrain update, the front end gets a new hood that wraps over the grille and headlamps that give the face a more horizontal look. A new fascia completes the front view of this facelift. LED head- and taillamps are now optional. Inside, the screen updates made for 2018 carry over—5.0-inch base, 7.0-inch up-level, and 8.4-inch optional navigation screens are offered—new wheel designs are available, and Latitude and Limited models can now be had with 19-inch tires. Inside there are new instrument-cluster graphics and significant improvements to the Advanced Technology package, which adds adaptive cruise control, ParkSense, Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist Plus, and front parking sensors. Updated exterior styling Revised interior functionality Expanded feature availability Part of the first Renegade generation introduced for 2015 Pros Trailhawk model's best-in-class off-road capability Agile handling when on pavement Plenty of easy-to-use technology features Lots of character with a classic Jeep look Cons Nine-speed transmission is clunky and easily confused Fuel economy is middling for the segment Boxy shape makes for lots of wind noise on the highway Rear-seat legroom is tight for adults "SUBSCRIBE NOW"
