The 2021 Jeep Renegade offers something unique in the world of subcompact crossovers. It has some impressive off-road capabilities. This should almost be expected from a company like Jeep. They are known for building off-road machines. The Renegade also has some of the rugged, iconic styling that the Jeep brand is known for.
What’s New for 2021?
There will be two new special editions of the Jeep Renegade for 2021. There's an Islander model with special badges and optional graphics packages. The Islander has an island-beach motif. There is also an 80th Anniversary Edition. Jeep is adding a special 80th Anniversary model for most of their 2021 vehicles to celebrate the brand's history.
Jeep has made a lot of safety features and driver-assist technology standard for all trim levels in 2021. This includes a Lane-Keeping Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and a Blind-Spot Monitor.
Body Styles and Configurations
The latest Jeep Renegade only comes in one body style. It's a subcompact crossover SUV with four doors and a rear hatch for the cargo area. It's a small vehicle with a length of only 166.6 inches. There's a maximum of 50.8 cubic-feet of storage space in the back when the rear seats are folded down. The Renegade has room for up to five people.
Interior Features
Jeep has packed the Renegade with some nice convenience features and modern technology. The seats are comfortable and offer power adjustments with lumbar support. Leather trim and full-leather upholstery are available. Buyers can also get heated seats up front and a power-operated, panoramic sunroof. Dual-zone climate control is available as well.
The Renegade gets Jeep's Uconnect infotainment system in different levels. There's an available navigation system. The base system gets a 5-inch display while higher trim levels offer a large, 8.4-inch touchscreen display. All models get an AM/FM HD stereo. Higher trims get a premium audio setup by Kenwood. The Uconnect system offers Bluetooth connectivity, multiple USB ports and compatibility with Apple CarPlay
Performance Stats
The 2021 Jeep Renegade comes equipped with one of two different powertrains. There's a 2.4-liter I4 engine that produces around 180 horsepower. There is also a 1.3-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. This model produces around 177 horsepower. While it has less horses under the hood, there's a bit more torque with the turbo model. This actually makes for better acceleration from a complete stop.
Most trim levels of the Renegade can be had in front-wheel drive or 4X4 configurations. Both engines come with an automatic transmission. Specific models will be able to tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Driving Impressions
The Jeep Renegade won't win any races at the track, but it has acceptable acceleration. Steering and handling are both good here. There's almost no body roll when taking on sharp turns. The brakes provide plenty of stopping power. The ride quality inside of the Renegade is smooth and generally comfortable.
The Renegade comes stock with a 9-speed automatic-transmission system no matter which engine it has. This transmission shifts smoothly and accurately. Handling really shines when you take the Renegade off of paved roads. The suspension system and available 4X4 make this small crossover SUV a surprisingly good off-road performer.
Fuel Economy
The Jeep Renegade's 4-cylinder base engine gets around 22 miles-per-gallon in the city and 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway. The numbers drop by 1 mile-per-gallon in 4X4 models with the same engine. A Renegade with the 1.3-liter turbocharged engine should get about 23 miles-per-gallon in the city and 29 miles-per-gallon on the highway. This engine only comes standard on models that are equipped with 4X4 capabilities.
Safety Features
Every Jeep Renegade model comes with seven standard airbags. The frame is made of a high-strength steel for added protection if a crash should occur. Adaptive Cruise Control changes the Renegade's cruise speed to match that of the vehicle in front of it. There is also a Full-Speed Front-Collision Warning with Active Braking to help prevent accidents.
A Lane-Departure Warning gives the driver a heads up if they should start veering out of their lane. A Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Path Detection helps the driver to have better awareness of their surroundings. A Rear-View Camera and several parking systems aid the driver in safely parking and backing out of spaces.
Most subcompact crossovers are economical, practical vehicles. They often have good fuel efficiency and some convenient cargo room in an overall small package. They are sensible but not exactly fun to drive. The 2021 Jeep Renegade can do what any other small crossover can do, but it also adds something unique. This little Jeep has real off-road credibility and is one of the more fun vehicles to own in this class.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)
Note: All Jeep Renegade MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
