Introduction
The Jeep Avenger, introduced in September 2022 and showcased at the Paris Motor Show in October 2022, marks a significant milestone for Jeep as its first fully electric SUV and the smallest vehicle in its lineup. Primarily designed for the European market, this subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) blends Jeep’s iconic rugged styling with modern, eco-friendly technology. Positioned below the Renegade, the Avenger is built on the STLA Small platform (an evolution of the CMP/eCMP platform) shared with models like the Peugeot 2008, Opel Mokka, and DS 3 Crossback.
Design and Features
The Jeep Avenger embodies the brand’s signature aesthetic with a bold, boxy design, featuring the iconic seven-slot grille, full-LED headlights, and moulded skid plates for a rugged yet urban-friendly look. Its compact dimensions—4.08 meters long, 1.81 meters wide, and 1.53 meters high—make it ideal for city driving, while a 200 mm ground clearance, 20-degree approach angle, and 32-degree departure angle ensure off-road capability. The Avenger’s exterior is designed with 360° body protection, including anti-scratch skid plates, to withstand urban scrapes and light off-road challenges.
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Inside, the Avenger offers a modern, functional cabin with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital driver’s display (7 or 10.25 inches), and ample storage equivalent to a carry-on bag. Higher trims like Summit add features like wireless phone charging, heated seats, and level 2 autonomous driving tech. The Uconnect™ Services, powered by ChatGPT generative AI, enhance connectivity with voice-activated commands and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. However, rear legroom and boot space (355 liters) are limited compared to rivals, making it less practical for families.
Powertrain Options
The Avenger offers three powertrain options, catering to diverse preferences:
- Petrol: A 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine (100 hp, 205 Nm) paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, delivering fuel efficiency of 5.6–5.9 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 127–131 g/km.
- e-Hybrid: A mild-hybrid system combining the 1.2-liter engine with a 28 hp electric motor integrated into a six-speed automatic gearbox, offering short electric-only range (up to 0.5 miles at 20 mph) and improved efficiency (4.9–5.0 l/100 km, 111–114 g/km CO2).
- Full-Electric: A 156 hp (115 kW) front-mounted electric motor with 260 Nm torque, powered by a 54 kWh battery, provides a WLTP range of 385–400 km (239–248 miles, up to 550 km in urban cycles). It supports 100 kW fast charging (20–80% in 24 minutes) and an 11 kW onboard charger.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Avenger is tailored for urban environments, with a tight turning circle, good visibility, and a comfortable ride that handles city bumps well. Its “Selec-Terrain” system offers Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, plus Hill Descent Control, making it versatile for light off-road conditions. The electric version accelerates from 0–60 mph in 8.7 seconds in Sport mode, though it’s less dynamic than rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric. The e-Hybrid and 4xe models offer smoother acceleration, while the petrol version feels adequate but lacks punch at higher speeds.
While not as sporty as the Ford Puma, the Avenger prioritizes comfort over dynamics, with light steering and a quiet cabin at low speeds. However, some wind and tire noise is noticeable at highway speeds, and the interior plastics feel less premium compared to competitors like the Smart #1.
Market and Pricing
Primarily marketed in Europe, the Avenger is also available in Turkey, Morocco, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil, but not in the United States, Canada, or China. Production began in January 2023 at the Tychy plant in Poland, with Jeep targeting 110,000 units annually. Prices start at approximately £25,000 for the petrol Longitude trim, £29,999 for the electric version, and up to £35,219 for the 4xe The North Face Edition. In India, the Avenger is expected to launch in December 2026, with prices estimated at ₹8–12 lakh for the ICE version and ₹50 lakh for the electric model.
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Reception and Competitors
The Avenger has been praised for its stylish design, urban maneuverability, and decent electric range, earning the European Car of the Year 2023 award. However, its limited rear space and boot capacity, along with a higher price compared to rivals like the Skoda Kamiq (£24,000) and Nissan Juke (£23,500), are drawbacks. Competitors include the Ford Puma, Toyota Yaris Cross, Hyundai Venue, and Stellantis siblings like the Fiat 600 and Vauxhall Mokka. The 4xe’s all-wheel-drive capability is a rare feature in its class, giving it an edge for buyers seeking light off-road performance.
Conclusion
The Jeep Avenger redefines the brand’s legacy by combining compact dimensions, modern technology, and electrified powertrains with Jeep’s rugged DNA. While it excels as a stylish, city-friendly SUV with light off-road capabilities, its practicality is limited by tight rear seating and a small boot. The Avenger’s diverse powertrain options and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice in the crowded small SUV market, particularly for buyers seeking a blend of urban practicality and Jeep’s adventurous spirit.
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