The Jeep Avenger is a small crossover offering unique electric, hybrid, and combustion powertrain options for European buyers. But until now, it lacked one thing that many Jeep fans consider essential: four-wheel drive. That’s about to change with the introduction of the new Jeep Avenger 4xe, a rugged and efficient variant that adds the option of hybrid power and four-wheel drive for the first time. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Jeep Avenger 4xe.
What is the Jeep Avenger 4xe?
The Jeep Avenger 4xe is the latest version of the Jeep Avenger, a compact SUV that debuted in 2023 as a pure electric vehicle. A cheaper pure-petrol variant was added to the range a few months later, both with front-wheel drive. The Avenger 4xe is the first Avenger to offer four-wheel drive, thanks to a 48-volt mild hybrid system that combines a 134-horsepower internal combustion engine with two 28-horsepower electric motors. One of the motors is integrated into a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. With the help of Jeep’s “power looping” technology, all four wheels can get power regardless of the battery’s state of charge. The Avenger 4xe can also run purely on low-speed electric power, though no specific range is mentioned.
What are the benefits of the Jeep Avenger 4xe?
The Jeep Avenger 4xe offers several benefits for buyers who want a small, versatile, and capable SUV. Some of the advantages are:
- More fun: The Avenger 4xe delivers more performance and driving pleasure than the other Avenger variants, thanks to its increased power and torque. The Avenger 4xe can generate up to 1400 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheels, a figure likely to have been achieved by multiplying motor torque by the gear ratios. This means the Avenger 4xe can accelerate faster, handle better, and tackle more challenging terrain than its front-wheel-drive siblings.
- More freedom: The Avenger 4xe gives more freedom to explore different environments and conditions, thanks to its four-wheel drive system and enhanced off-road capability. The Avenger 4xe features a new front fascia that improves the approach angle to 21 degrees, a break-over angle of 20 degrees, and a departure angle of 34 degrees. It also has wider fenders, a wider track, and an exclusive wheel design wrapped with aggressive off-road tires. The Avenger 4xe can also switch between different driving modes, such as Auto, Sport, and ECO, to optimize performance and efficiency according to the situation.
- More Avenger: The Avenger 4xe represents the essence of the Jeep brand, combining the compactness and versatility of the Avenger with the performance and capability of the four-wheel drive system. The Avenger 4xe also has a distinctive design that sets it apart from the other Avenger variants, with the 4xe signature “Surf Blue” tow hooks, roof rack, and contrasting trim details. The Avenger 4xe also has a more premium and grown-up feel to it, with a refined interior that features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a wireless smartphone charger.
How does the Avenger compare to its competitors?
The Jeep Avenger hybrid SUV is unique in the European market, offering a four-wheel-drive, combustion-powered option in the small crossover segment. Its closest competitors, such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Ford Puma, and Volkswagen T-Cross, are only front-wheel drive. The only other small SUVs that offer four-wheel drive are the Suzuki Jimny and the Fiat Panda 4x4, but they are not hybrids and have less power and refinement than the Avenger 4xe. The table below compares some key specifications and features of the Avenger 4xe and its rivals.
| Model | Powertrain | Power | Torque | 0-62 mph | CO2 emissions | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Avenger 4xe | 1.3-liter petrol + 2 electric motors | 190 hp | 1400 lb-ft | 9.0 s | 119 g/km | $34,000 |
| Nissan Juke | 1.0-liter petrol | 115 hp | 148 lb-ft | 10.4 s | 131 g/km | $24,000 |
| Renault Captur | 1.3-liter petrol | 130 hp | 177 lb-ft | 9.6 s | 130 g/km | $25,000 |
| Ford Puma | 1.0-liter petrol | 125 hp | 148 lb-ft | 9.8 s | 127 g/km | $24,000 |
| Volkswagen T-Cross | 1.0-liter petrol | 115 hp | 148 lb-ft | 10.2 s | 123 g/km | $24,000 |
| Suzuki Jimny | 1.5-liter petrol | 101 hp | 96 lb-ft | 12.0 s | 154 g/km | $22,000 |
| Fiat Panda 4x4 | 0.9-liter petrol | 85 hp | 107 lb-ft | 12.1 s | 114 g/km | $20,000 |
As you can see, the Jeep Avenger 4xe has a clear advantage in terms of power, torque, acceleration, and emissions over its competitors. It also has a higher price, but it offers more features and technology than the others. The Avenger 4xe is the best choice for buyers who want a small SUV that can go anywhere without compromising on performance, efficiency, or style.
When and where can you buy the Jeep Avenger 4xe?
The Jeep Avenger 4xe is expected to go on sale in Europe by the end of 2024. There is no indication that the Avenger 4xe will be available in North America, where the Avenger is considered too small for the market. However, Jeep fans in the US can look forward to other electrified models from the brand, such as the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, and the upcoming Jeep Wagoneer and Jeep Grand Wagoneer plug-in hybrids.
The Jeep Avenger 4xe is a remarkable addition to the Jeep lineup, as it combines the best of both worlds: the fun and freedom of a four-wheel drive SUV and the efficiency and sustainability of a hybrid vehicle. The Avenger 4xe is the ultimate expression of the Avenger’s personality and a testament to Jeep’s commitment to innovation and adventure. If you are looking for a small, versatile, and capable SUV that can handle any challenge, the Jeep Avenger 4xe is the one for you.
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