2020 Jeep Renegade Review: Who Says Crossovers Can't Go Off-Road
The subcompact crossover market is jam-packed with posers that offer cutesy looks but no actual off-road capability. That's where the 2020 Jeep Renegade comes in. Still in its first generation and sharing its platform with the Fiat 500X, this little retro off-roader comes with Jeep's 'Trail-Rated' badge, which gives it the edge over competitors such as the Honda HR-V and Kia Seltos. Not only is this little CUV capable off the beaten track, but it also comes with a class-leading infotainment system. Unfortunately, the little Jeep is let down by its underwhelming choice of two gas-driven engines: the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-4 produces 180 horsepower, and there's a 177-hp 1.3-liter turbo option too, but both fail to impress. It might have some off-road capability, but is that enough to win over fans in this highly competitive segment? A quick review of the 2020 Jeep Renegade should reveal all...
Best Deals on 2020 Jeep Renegade
2020 Renegade Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
166.6 in | 101.2 in | 66.5 in | 74.2 in | 60.6 in | 60.6 in | 3,056.0 lbs |
Exterior Colors
2020 Renegade Performance
Engine and Transmission
2020 Renegade Interior
Seating and Interior Space
2020 Renegade Trunk and Cargo Space
2020 Renegade Safety and Reliability
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
---|---|---|---|
3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
---|---|
4/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2020 Jeep Renegade A Good SUV?
The subcompact SUV segment is filled to the brim with capable vehicles, but few to none offer the off-road capability of the 2020 Renegade, but only if you go for the hardcore Trailhawk version. This little off-roader's design is also one of its most appealing characteristics, and the competition fails to deliver anything that looks as retro or hardcore. Driver visibility is excellent, and we adore the Uconnect infotainment system, but that's about it. On the negative side, the Renegade fails to impress on the road with its overly soft suspension, its underwhelming engine options, and that terrible nine-speed automatic transmission. Cabin space is also tight, especially in the rear, and cargo space is limited. The interior quality is acceptable, however. Pricing is relatively competitive, but if you want the best version of this little Jeep, you're going to have to stretch for the $28,215 Trailhawk. That's the price for the 2020 Jeep Renegade SUV in its most impressive form, and you wouldn't really want anything else.
What Jeep Renegade Model Should I Buy?
There are many options out there that offer better specs, economy, and safety, so it would not make sense to go for any of the road-focused models. Instead, we'd recommend the Trailhawk purely because of its true off-road capabilities compared to other cars in this class. The Trailhawk offers improved approach and departure angles thanks to some hardcore bumpers. It also gets a low-range transfer case and a towing capacity of up to 2,000 lbs. The Trailhawk does sacrifice some on-road comfort, but that's the knock you're going to have to take if you want the added capability.