Let's dive deep into the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe, an awesome blend of Jeep's off-road prowess and modern plug-in hybrid technology. In this comprehensive test drive, we're going to explore everything that makes this compact SUV stand out. From its electrified powertrain to its trail-ready features and everyday usability, we’ll cover it all, providing you with an in-depth look at what it's like to live with the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Powertrain and Performance

The heart of the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe is its plug-in hybrid powertrain, which combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This setup delivers a combined output of 240 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, providing a noticeable boost in performance compared to the standard Renegade. The electric motors are powered by an 11.4 kWh battery pack, which allows for an all-electric driving range of around 21 miles. This is perfect for those short commutes or errands around town, where you can drive solely on electric power and reduce your carbon footprint.

When you need extra power or the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, providing you with the full combined output. The transition between electric and gasoline power is smooth and almost imperceptible, making for a refined driving experience. The Renegade Trailhawk 4xe also features Jeep's Selec-Terrain traction management system, which offers various driving modes, including Auto, Snow, Sand/Mud, and Rock. These modes optimize the vehicle's performance for different terrains and conditions, ensuring you have the best possible traction and control.

Off-road, the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe truly shines. Its Trail Rated designation means it has been rigorously tested and proven to perform in challenging conditions. With features like a 21:1 crawl ratio, skid plates, and tow hooks, this little SUV is ready to tackle tough trails. The instant torque from the electric motors is especially useful when crawling over rocks or navigating steep inclines, providing you with precise control and ample power. On the road, the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections well, and the steering is responsive and accurate. While it's not the sportiest SUV on the market, it's certainly capable and enjoyable to drive, whether you're commuting to work or exploring the great outdoors.

Interior and Technology

Inside the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe, you'll find a well-designed and functional cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The Trailhawk trim adds unique touches like red stitching and embroidered logos, giving the interior a more rugged and sporty feel. The dashboard layout is straightforward and easy to use, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, with clear graphics and a user-friendly interface. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone.

The Renegade Trailhawk 4xe comes standard with a range of advanced technology features, including a digital instrument cluster that displays important information about the vehicle's performance and battery status. You also get access to Jeep's connected services, which allow you to remotely monitor and control various aspects of the vehicle, such as charging status, climate control, and vehicle location. Safety is also a priority, with the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe offering a suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind on the road.

In terms of cargo space, the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe offers a decent amount of room for its size. With the rear seats up, you get around 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo space expands to 50.8 cubic feet, providing you with ample room for larger items. The rear seats are easy to fold, and the load floor is flat, making it easy to load and unload cargo.

Off-Road Capabilities

When it comes to off-road prowess, the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe truly shines. It's not just a marketing gimmick; this compact SUV is genuinely capable of tackling challenging terrains. The "Trail Rated" badge isn't just for show; it signifies that this vehicle has undergone rigorous testing and has proven its ability to perform in various demanding conditions. One of the key features that contribute to its off-road capabilities is the Selec-Terrain traction management system. This system allows the driver to choose from different modes, including Auto, Snow, Sand/Mud, and Rock, each of which optimizes the vehicle's settings for the specific terrain. Whether you're navigating a snowy trail or crawling over rocky obstacles, the Selec-Terrain system ensures that the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe delivers the best possible traction and control.

The 21:1 crawl ratio is another important factor in its off-road capabilities. This low gearing allows the vehicle to crawl slowly and precisely over obstacles, providing the driver with maximum control. The skid plates protect the underbody of the vehicle from damage when traversing rough terrain, while the tow hooks provide a secure attachment point for recovery in case you get stuck. The instant torque from the electric motors is also a major advantage when off-roading. Unlike traditional gasoline engines, electric motors deliver maximum torque from a standstill, providing you with immediate power when you need it most. This is especially useful when crawling over rocks or navigating steep inclines, as it allows you to maintain precise control and avoid wheelspin.

The increased ground clearance also helps the vehicle. This allows the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe to clear obstacles that would stop other vehicles in their tracks. The approach and departure angles are also optimized for off-road use, allowing you to confidently tackle steep inclines and declines without scraping the front or rear of the vehicle. The four-wheel-drive system is designed to provide maximum traction and control in all conditions. It automatically distributes power to the wheels that need it most, ensuring that you maintain traction even on slippery or uneven surfaces.

Fuel Efficiency and Charging

One of the biggest advantages of the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe is its fuel efficiency. Thanks to its plug-in hybrid powertrain, you can drive solely on electric power for up to 21 miles, reducing your reliance on gasoline. When the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine kicks in, providing you with a combined fuel economy of around 24 MPG. This is a significant improvement over the standard Renegade, which gets around 24 MPG combined. The ability to drive on electric power also means you can save money on fuel costs, especially if you primarily drive short distances. You can charge the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe at home using a standard 120V outlet or a 240V charger. A 240V charger will fully charge the battery in around 2.5 hours, while a 120V outlet will take around 8 hours. You can also charge the battery at public charging stations, which are becoming increasingly common.

The Jeep app allows you to monitor your charging status and schedule charging sessions. You can also use the app to find nearby charging stations. The Renegade Trailhawk 4xe also features regenerative braking, which helps to recharge the battery when you decelerate. This helps to extend your electric driving range and improve overall fuel efficiency. The plug-in hybrid powertrain also qualifies the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe for various tax credits and incentives, which can further reduce the cost of ownership. These incentives vary depending on your location, so it's worth checking with your local government to see what's available.

The electric motor is very silent and smooth, which also makes the overall driving experience better. The combination of electric and gasoline power provides you with the best of both worlds: the efficiency of an electric vehicle and the range of a gasoline vehicle. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a long road trip, the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe offers a versatile and efficient driving experience.

Conclusion

The Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe is a compelling option for those looking for a compact SUV that offers both off-road capability and fuel efficiency. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain provides a noticeable boost in performance and allows for all-electric driving, while its Trail Rated designation ensures it can handle challenging terrains. The interior is well-designed and functional, with comfortable seats and a user-friendly infotainment system. While it may not be the most spacious or luxurious SUV on the market, it's certainly a capable and versatile vehicle that offers a unique blend of features. If you're looking for a compact SUV that can handle both city streets and rugged trails, the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe is definitely worth considering.

Ultimately, the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4xe presents a strong case for itself in the competitive compact SUV market. It manages to blend Jeep's legendary off-road DNA with modern hybrid technology, creating a vehicle that's as comfortable navigating city streets as it is tackling rugged trails. The plug-in hybrid powertrain not only enhances fuel efficiency but also provides a noticeable boost in performance, making it a joy to drive. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as limited cargo space compared to some competitors, its unique combination of features and capabilities makes it a standout choice for those seeking adventure without compromising on efficiency. Whether you're an avid off-roader or simply looking for a versatile and eco-friendly SUV, the Renegade Trailhawk 4xe deserves a closer look.