2021 Jeep Renegade Review

Performance and Capability

The Renegade offers a 2.4-liter inline-four engine that produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This is the base option and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. The optional upgrade is a 1.3-liter turbo-four that produces 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

On the road, the Renegade is a composed handler with a comfortable ride and smooth turns. Off-road, the Renegade's trail-ready modes use a simulated low-range gearbox and upgraded mechanicals to tackle the rugged terrain. It's also equipped with off-road control programming to improve traction and grip so you can venture off the beaten track. Other off-road features include all-terrain tires, a raised suspension, underbody skid plates, and hill-descent control.

Interior Comfort and Space

No matter which trim level you choose, the Renegade boasts heavily bolstered seats with plenty of head and legroom. The interior is filled with soft-touch materials and durable upholstery, giving it a combination of comfort and practicality. Several enhancements are available for the interior, including dual-zone climate control, premium cloth upholstery, and leather upholstery. For style, the upper trim levels offer interior design touches like blue accent stitching and contrast stitching.

In the cargo hold, the Renegade has 18.5 cubic feet of space with the seats up. Folded down, that space expands to almost 51 cubic feet, providing enough room for luggage, camping gear, sports equipment, and more.

Features and Technology

The Renegade comes standard with automatic emergency braking, a helpful feature that automatically pre-charges and applies the brakes in impending crash scenarios. Another desirable safety feature is front-crash prevention, a standard feature that avoids forward crashes by alerting you to vehicles ahead. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is also standard, which warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot.

For technology, the Renegade comes with a 7-inch touchscreen Uconnect® infotainment system, which is regarded as one of the best on the market. The system features intuitive layouts, sharp graphics, and a range of connectivity options for on-the-go entertainment. Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ is included, giving you the option to stream music and other media from your smartphone. If you prefer a larger touchscreen, the Uconnect® infotainment system is available with an 8.4-inch screen.