The 2008 Concept Car Finally Goes into Production

Those who recall a rugged trim level of the Cherokee when hearing "Jeep Renegade" are quite the Jeep enthusiasts. Furthermore, those who know that a trim named Renegade also existed for the "Wrangler," a direct descendant of the "Willys," and its predecessor, the "CJ-7," can be considered true Jeep connoisseurs.

At the 2008 Detroit Motor Show, a concept car bearing the Renegade name, equipped with a range-extender hybrid powertrain, also made an appearance. However, following the dissolution of the partnership with Daimler around that show, the project for the open-top, two-seater compact Jeep was put on hold until this year.



Chrysler is known for bringing concept cars to production relatively often, and even if a two-seater production model was uncertain, they must have understood the demand for an entry-class Jeep since that time. Thus, when a model bearing the "Renegade" name actually appears, it evokes those memories and brings a sense of deep emotion.

Now, the all-new Renegade is a global model, shipped worldwide, born from a collaboration with Fiat. Its platform is the newly developed "Small-Wide 4x4" architecture by Fiat Chrysler, which is also used in the "Fiat 500L," a four-door model in the B-C segment inspired by the "Fiat 500."

Originally, this platform was developed for the "Fiat Punto." As a side note, the Fiat 500L was equipped with the world's first in-car Lavazza espresso machine, which garnered attention at the time of its announcement.

The Interior Expresses Jeep's Rugged and Tough Image

Unlike the past concept car, the production model Renegade is a four-door with a ride height sufficiently high to evoke the image of a Jeep. However, when considering that its name is being used for a challenger entering a new segment where Jeep has not previously existed, and that it adopts an open roof named "My Sky," reminiscent of the open-body concept car, the distance feels significantly shorter.

With its orthodox two-box body form, round headlights, seven-slot grille, and squared-off taillights, it meticulously incorporates the factors that make a "Jeep" look like a Jeep.

While it presents a different front-end image compared to the new "Cherokee" arriving this spring, the more stylish "Grand Cherokee" after its minor change, and the "Compass" which has been popular as an entry-level model, its face, which can be described as belonging to the "Wrangler" lineage, is undeniably that of the "Jeep" everyone knows.



The interior expresses Jeep's rugged and tough image. Elements like the vertical dashboard and the assist grip in front of the passenger seat evoke Jeep's tradition. On the other hand, new initiatives are also implemented, such as the ability to coordinate the bezels for the air vents, door speakers, and shift boot in preferred colors. Additionally, the "Uconnect" infotainment system, already introduced in various Chrysler and Jeep models, has been adopted.

As befits a global model, the engine lineup offers a total of 16 variations. The main engines include four MultiJet gasoline engines and two MultiJet II diesel engines, essential for the European market. The lineup also includes the "E.torQ" engine, compatible with more efficient flex-fuel for the South American market.

The transmission options include a 9-speed automatic transmission, a first for this segment, along with two manual transmissions and a Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT).

Performance Befitting the Jeep Name, Despite its Small Size

The noteworthy 4WD system utilizes 4x4 technology inherited from the new Jeep Cherokee. It features two class-exclusive intelligent four-wheel-drive systems, the "PTU." One is "Jeep Active Drive," a full-time 4WD system that distributes driving force to the rear wheels as needed. The other is called "Jeep Active Drive Low," which, in addition to a full-time 4WD system, incorporates a 20:1 crawl ratio (low-speed driving ratio).

Both full-time 4WD systems are equipped with the Jeep Selec-Terrain system, allowing selection of Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud modes with a single switch. Furthermore, the "Trailhawk" model, which employs "Jeep Active Drive Low," includes an exclusive five-mode system called Rock mode.

While based on a front-wheel-drive powertrain, similar to the new Cherokee, it delivers performance befitting the Jeep name, not only in on-road and off-road capabilities but also in all weather conditions.



The "Renegade Trailhawk," boasting the strongest 4WD performance in its class, features a 20:1 crawl ratio, a 20mm ride height lift, skid plates, red front and rear tow hooks, 17-inch all-terrain tires, a wheel clearance of up to 205mm, and Hill Descent Control, further refining its off-road capabilities.

Through this tuning, the Renegade Trailhawk achieves an approach angle of 30.5 degrees, a breakover angle of 25.7 degrees, and a departure angle of 34.3 degrees. It also achieves a water fording depth of approximately 480mm, delivering performance comparable to serious off-roaders.

Jeep's new entry-level model, the "Renegade," was designed in America, produced in Italy, and is planned for sale in over 100 countries worldwide. It can be described as an innovative global model symbolizing a new era for the Jeep brand, born from the collaboration between Fiat and Chrysler, unlike anything seen before.