SYDNEY: Small sports utility vehicles are all the rage, and there are no signs of the segment slowing.
This month we’ve already seen two new entrants, including the Renault Captur and Honda HR-V, while the Mazda CX-3 will follow in March.
Jeep will also join the ranks later in 2015, with the Renegade – but it comes with rare ability. The Renegade won’t be a claytons off-roader. Conversely this compact offering will feature what Jeep claims will be the best-in-class four-wheel drive ability.
Currently, only the ageing Suzuki Jimny has true capability off the bitumen.
The Renegade will be available with a choice of three engines, an entry-level 1.6-litre non-turbo four-cylinder engine generating 81kW/152N, a mid-range 1.4-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder unit (103kW/230Nm) and a range-topping 2.4-litre four cylinder petrol (130kW/230Nm).
It’s expected to arrive here in October. Prices are yet to be revealed.