The All New jeep Renegade, at a dealer near you now,

The new Jeep Renegade marks a series of firsts in the company’s history. On sale in the UK from February 2015, the Renegade is Jeep’s first entry into the small SUV segment. It is also the first Fiat Chrysler Automobiles car to be jointly developed by Italian and American engineers and the first Jeep to be built in Europe but sold in the USA.

Those aren’t the Jeep Renegade’s only firsts. It becomes the first small SUV to feature a nine-speed gearbox. It is the first in its segment to have rear axle disconnect and it is unique in class thanks to the My Sky sunroof that gives occupants a true open-air driving experience. It is also the first in its segment to have a seven-inch full colour multi-view display in its instrument binnacle.

Although it’s built in Italy, at the rejuvenated SATA plant in Melfi, the Renegade had to be instantly recognisable as a Jeep. It will be sold in 100 markets globally and designers were challenged to come up with a look that would symbolise Jeep’s American heritage while appealing to youthful and adventurous car buyers. The result is rugged yet chic thanks to a combination of the brand’s classic styling cues such as the seven slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel arches that blend with the fresh, modern look.

A new architecture beneath enables the Renegade to achieve Jeep’s fabled ‘Trail Rated’ status. This means the new model will be able to combine best-in-class off-road ability with world-class on-road driving dynamics. Inside, functional details crafted from high quality materials and using innovative colours ensure the Renegade will become a polished addition to its owners’ lives. It’ll be a practical one too, courtesy of best-in-class interior space and clever, functional storage areas.

Equipment has been designed to boost on-board comfort. Advanced technology includes the intuitive Uconnect touchscreen for infotainment with a choice between 5 and 6.5-inch screens. A wide range of options includes the kind of open air freedom that until now has been unavailable in the small SUV class. The unique-to-segment My Sky has two lightweight panels that can be easily removed and stowed in the boot for a truly panoramic open-air experience.

There is also an array of advanced safety features including Forward Collision Warning Plus with Crash Mitigation which automatically prevents or reduces the impact in low-speed shunts; ParkSense Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist that automatically parks the car; LaneSenseTM Lane Departure Warning Plus; and Adaptive Cruise Control.

The Jeep Renegade is available in 11 colours with six wheel designs and there are six powertrain combinations, each of which offers a combination of efficiency and performance. There are two MultiAir II petrol engines, a pair of MultiJet II turbo diesels and the 1.6-litre eTorque petrol. There are also five and six-speed manual gearboxes, the Dual Dry Clutch Transmission and the nine-speed automatic gearbox. Available with two or four-wheel drive the Renegade boasts two new, advanced 4x4 systems: Jeep Active Drive and Jeep Active Drive Low.

The new 4x4 systems supply the proper amount of torque for any driving situation ensuring enhanced safety even in the slipperiest conditions. The rear axle disconnect system seamlessly switches between two and four-wheel-drive to guarantee traction but reduce the energy required and therefore fuel consumption when 4x4 capability isn’t needed. Jeep Active Drive and Active Drive Low are combined with Jeep Selec-Terrain which gives the driver four settings (five on the Trailhawk version) for optimum performance on any surface. Combined with independent suspension that will give a maximum wheel articulation of up to 205mm with ground clearance of up to 210mm on the Trailhawk model, the Jeep Renegade sets new standards of 4x4 capability in the small SUV segment.

The Jeep Renegade range has four trim levels: Sport, Longitude, Limited and Trailhawk. Early Renegade customers will have the choice of a fifth model, the Opening Edition. Although the Sport is the entry to the range, it still features a high level of specification. Standard equipment on this includes a five-inch Uconnect touchscreen with a DAB radio and Bluetooth plus auxiliary and USB connectors, a 3.5-inch Electronic Vehicle Information Centre, air-conditioning, electric parking brake and 16-inch aluminium wheels.

The Longitude offers high levels of functionality and comfort. It does so by augmenting the Sport model’s features with optional four-wheel drive plus large car equipment such as standard cruise control, ambient LED lighting, a leather wrapped steering wheel and satellite navigation as well as 17-inch aluminium wheels. The Limited tops the range in terms of technological equipment and has 18-inch aluminium wheels, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and steering wheel, leather upholstery, the segment leading seven-inch colour Thin Film Technology (TFT) Electronic Vehicle Information Centre, 6.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen with sat nav and Bluetooth, privacy glass, rear parking sensors and silver side roof rails, door mirrors and front grille. The exclusive Opening Edition is limited to 200 models. It comes with a unique interior and unique 18-inch wheels; 100 are available in Alpine white, 100 in Omaha orange paintwork.

The Trailhawk is the model with the most ability off-road thanks to the Jeep Active Drive Low and Selec-Terrain system with Hill Descent Control and Rock Mode. It has all the key equipment from the Limited model and stands out as being the most capable Renegade of the lot thanks to a ride height that’s raised by 30mm compared to the 4x2 model, chunky mud and snow tyres, unique front and rear facias to improve approach and departure angles along with front suspension and transmission skid plates plus transfer case and fuel tank skid plate shields and a tow hook. The Trailhawk is the only Renegade to come with the 170hp version of the 2.0-litre MultiJet II turbo diesel with the nine-speed automatic transmission. And like every other model in the range it oozes the same sense of adventure and individuality that Jeeps are famous for.

DESIGN: RUGGED YET CHIC

As Jeep’s first offering in the small SUV segment, the new Renegade’s design must fulfil a complex set of requirements. The compact proportions required to ensure manoeuvrability in tight city centres also have to allow best-in-class off-road capability. It must look rugged while still being functional, versatile and stylish. It must also appeal to youthful customers who want to share Jeep’s values of freedom and adventure yet expect world-class quality and efficiency.

The result is a purposeful design that has the short overhangs, rugged body forms and aggressive wheel to body proportions that Jeep is famous for. Although the new Renegade’s look is bang up to date, there’s no doubting it’s a Jeep thanks to the signature seven-slot grille and large circular headlamps. At sill level, there’s moulded, colour-accented cladding. A raised belt line refers to the Jeep Wrangler’s half doors and the roof has an optional daylight opening reminiscent of the Wrangler’s classic hard top. The trapezoidal wheel arches, beefy tyres and wide bumpers have been associated with Jeep for more than seven decades.

The rear too has pointers to Jeep heritage with Wrangler-like square tail lamps and a black surround. The rear lights feature a new X design theme which was inspired by the ‘jerry’ cans mounted on the back of the military Willys Jeep – the legend that inspired the brand.

As a family car the new Jeep Renegade will need a highly adaptable interior. To achieve something that embodies the required comfort, quality, functionality and style it was designed around four pillars. Its design must make an emotional impact; it has to employ high quality materials; it should integrate state of the art technologies; and it must use space intelligently with clever storage solutions.

Jeep’s designers christened the form language they used for the Renegade’s interior ‘Tek-Tonic’. This is the combination of soft and tactile shapes and materials with rugged but functional details. An example is the way the beefy passenger grab handle is smoothly integrated into the air vent to make it look almost sculpted. Set into the soft-touch dashboard is a unique protective clamp surrounding the Uconnect touchscreen. This is embossed with the ‘Since 1941’ legend, in homage to Jeep’s history. A further nod to heritage comes with front cup holders that use the same X shape design detail as the tail lamps.

For added appeal, the protective clamp bezel surrounds the gear lever and is finished in an anodized accent colour to match the frames surrounding the climate control vents, the cup holder and the speakers.

There are six trim choices. These include: black cloth with Satin Silver bezel accents; black/Sandstorm cloth with Satin Silver bezel accents; Bark Brown/Ski Grey cloth with contrasting Anodized Orange bezel accents and stitching (Longitude); black leather with Satin Silver bezel accents and stitching; Bark Brown/Ski Grey leather with Anodized Orange bezel accents and stitching (Limited); and black leather with Ruby Red bezel accents and stitching (Trailhawk).

INTERIOR: CLASS LEADING SPACE AND TECH

The Jeep Renegade’s interior combines a series of attributes that make it the perfect accomplice for family life in the 21^st Century. Clever design combines with clever touches to make it both helpful and enjoyable to spend time with. Drivers of the new Renegade sit behind a unique steering wheel with a substantial rim. This features controls for the audio and vehicle systems and as a unique feature in this segment, it can be specified to be heated. Further comfort is offered by the centre console armrest which is adjustable and padded in soft-touch material.

The rear seats split fold 60/40 or in Trailhawk models can be specified to have a 40/20/40 split with a ski flap for long, thin loads. To maximise possible carrying space, the front passenger seat folds forwards to enable the Renegade to carry really long objects. The boot has 351 litres of load space with the rear seats in place. Fold them flat and there’s 1297 litres of load space. The Renegade also features a removable, reversible and height-adjustable cargo floor panel as an option.

All models have air-conditioning with Limited and above adding dual-zone climate control. The controls for this nestle in the lower part of the dashboard. Beneath it and directly below the USB, auxiliary inputs and 12-volt power outlet there’s a storage compartment complete with a rubberized mat moulded with the topography of Moab, a legendary off-road spot in Utah for Jeep enthusiasts.

Connectivity and infotainment

The Jeep Renegade comes with a range of state-of-the-art and segment-leading high-tech features. These are a customisable and intuitive way to make life on-board as comfortable and entertaining as possible.

The Renegade has Jeep’s Uconnect system which provides an interface between vehicle occupants and communication, entertainment and navigation touchscreen and even voice control. Uconnect comes in two versions, each with its own size of screen: Uconnect 5.0 with a 5-inch screen is in Sport and Longitude models while Uconnect 6.5AN with a 6.5-inch screen comes with Limited and Trailhawk models.

The Uconnect 5.0 system enables handsfree calls from Bluetooth phones. Compatible smartphones can send from a list of 18 pre-defined text messages. The system also announces the receipt of a message, identifies the sender and ‘reads’ the message aloud. Music can be streamed wirelessly while MP3 players can be connected to the premium media hub via the standard auxiliary jack or USB port and charged. The AM/FM DAB radio can be controlled by voice commands.

The Uconnect 6.5AN does everything 5.0 does and more. It also features sensor-assisted GPS satellite navigation. This helps to ensure accurate positioning, even in tunnels and areas where GPS signals are obstructed. And the stunning 3D graphics give a more detailed view of cities and landmarks. The Uconnect system can be specified with an optional ParkView rear reversing camera.

The Renegade also boasts the segment’s largest full-colour instrument cluster. This 7-inch Thin Film Technology (TFT) screen is standard in Limited and Trailhawk models and substituted with a 3.5-inch monochrome display in Sport and Longitude versions. Whichever the model, the screen sits in front of the driver within the instrument cluster. It displays information using a combination of graphics and text designed to communicate in a simple and straightforward way so that the driver’s main focus can stay on the road.

The display is operated by buttons on the steering wheel and drivers can customise the screen’s centre with a multitude of information. It offers the choice between turn-by-turn navigation signs, speed, real-time economy, audio information and safety warnings. The four corners of the TFT display can be customised to show current fuel economy, outside temperature, time, and compass direction. And warnings instantly pop up on the display. Either side of the screen there’s a large analogue speedometer and rev counter. The latter has a mud-splatter graphic on it instead of the traditional red line.

Open air freedom

Jeep Renegade buyers have a choice of two sun roofs. The unique-to-segment My Sky is stamped with the characteristic Renegade X design and consists of two panels. These lightweight rigid sections are easy to remove to give a feeling of open air freedom entirely new to this kind of vehicle. The panels can then be stored in protective bags and stowed safely in the lower part of the boot. Alternatively there’s a large dual-pane electric sliding glass roof.

4x4 SYSTEMS: STRAIGHT TO THE TOP OF THE CLASS

Jeep is renowned for offering best-in-class capability off-road and the Renegade has been engineered not to disappoint. It enjoys two innovative 4x4 drive trains that have been designed to provide traction in any environment. And it becomes the first small SUV to feature rear axle disconnect to deliver two-wheel drive levels of fuel efficiency.

Jeep Active Drive

Available on Longitude or Limited models, Jeep Active Drive is a fully automatic 4x4 system that slips seamlessly between two and four-wheel drive as road and driving conditions dictate. This enables it to limit understeer and oversteer for safer driving. An innovative Power Transfer Unit (PTU) can provide up to 2000Nm of the engine’s available torque to the rear wheels. A fully variable wet clutch, housed in the rear drive module, uses Jeep’s specially developed algorithms to combine with the PTU and give the right amount of torque for any driving conditions, no matter how low traction is.

Jeep Active Drive Low

Drivers who want best in class 4x4 ability can choose Jeep Active Drive Low. This builds on the strengths of Jeep Active Drive by offering a 20:1 low range ratio. It is available on Limited and Trailhawk models with the 2.0-litre diesel and nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Jeep Selec-Terrain

Both 4x4 systems feature Jeep’s Selec-Terrain. This allows the driver to choose on and off-road settings for optimum performance in all conditions. All models feature four customised settings: Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud. Jeep Active Drive Low on the Trailhawk model adds a fifth: Rock. Selec-Terrain includes Hill Descent Control (HDC). At the push of a button, this uses the vehicle’s ABS braking system to control each wheel’s speed and enable smooth and restrained hill descent on slippery terrain without the driver’s input.

The five Selec-Terrain programmes are as follows:

• Auto: This default mode is calibrated for everyday driving. In most on-road conditions (dry and above freezing temperatures), the Auto mode disconnects the rear drivetrain to optimise fuel efficiency
• Snow: The system brings in a specifically calibrated 4x4 mode and is tuned (via chassis controls and transmission calibrations) to minimize oversteer and maximize traction
• Mud: This converts to a specially calibrated 4x4 mode to maximize low-speed traction on slippery muddy surfaces by providing additional wheel slip (via specifically tuned chassis controls, differentials, and transmission ratios geared to a muddy surface)
• Sand: The system employs a specially calibrated 4x4 mode to maximize low-speed traction on looser, sand-covered surfaces by providing additional wheel slip (via specifically tuned chassis controls, differentials, and transmission ratios geared to a sand/loose particle surface)
• Rock (only on Trailhawk models with Jeep Active Drive Low/Selec-Terrain 4x4 systems): The system includes 4x4 low capability.

ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONS:

The Jeep Renegade is available with a choice of six engines. The three petrol and three diesel power plants can be specified with a choice of four transmissions, including a nine-speed automatic – a first in this segment.

Diesel engines: 1.6 and 2.0 MultiJet II

Both 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre turbo diesels benefit from second generation MultiJet technology, developed and patented by Fiat Powertrain Technologies.

MultiJet II is a common rail injection system that represents the most technologically advanced way to independently control high injection pressures (1600 bar), engine speed and the quantity of fuel injected. The engine management introduces small quantities of fuel called pilot injections in order to optimize engine noise and reduce polluting emissions. The main injection is then managed according to how hard the driver is pressing the accelerator which enables the engine to perform smoothly in all situations. The 1.6-litre version delivers 120hp at 3750rpm and 320Nm of torque at 1750rpm. It is paired with the six-speed manual transmission.

The 2.0-litre engine uses the same MultiJet II technology and can be specified with an output of either 140 or 170hp. Both engines deliver their maximum power output at 3750rpm and produce their maximum 350Nm of torque at 1750rpm. Engine response is improved by an electronically controlled variable-geometry turbocharger and the engine still complies with the strict Euro 6 emissions standards.

All diesel engines feature:

• Aluminium cylinder head with two camshafts operating four valves per cylinder (two intake and two exhaust) through a low friction actuation system (roller finger followers)
• Common Rail fuel injection delivering up to 1600 bar of fuel pressure, with solenoid fuel injectors capable of multipleinjection events per combustion cycle. Injection Rate Shaping reduces fuel consumption and multiple post injections to optimise Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration efficiency
• Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) to combine power at high speed and low end torque
• Improved Exhaust Gas Regeneration (EGR) systems with enhanced cooling and double (high and low pressure) EGR systems for high performance versions to get lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency
• Balance shafts to reduce vibrations at high engine speed and NVH pack to reduce noise
• Close-coupled Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to ensure efficient DPF regenerations and as a consequence lower fuel consumption
• Stop&Start technology that reduces emissions and eliminates fuel consumption that would result from idling.

Petrol engines: 1.6 E-torQ and 1.4 MultiAir II

The Jeep Renegade’s two petrol engines are the 110hp 1.6-litre E-torQ engine and the 1.4-litre MultiAir II turbo which comes with power outputs of 140 and 170hp. The four-cylinder 1.4 is available in Longitude and Limited models and features Fiat Powertrain Technologies’ unique MultiAir II valve-actuation technology. This controls intake air, cylinder by cylinder and stroke by stroke. By doing this so precisely it reduces carbon-dioxide emissions and boosts fuel economy by up to 7.5 per cent compared with engines equipped with more conventional valve control.

In the Renegade a host of new engine components have been designed to reduce friction and enhance performance and fuel efficiency. The engine is built with a cast iron block and features a forged steel crankshaft which along with its counterweight has been designed to reduce overall mass. There are lightweight forged steel connecting rods designed with a unique cross section to reduce bending. Lightweight cast aluminium pistons help contribute to the engine’s efficiency and performance. Piston cooling jets at the bottom of each cylinder contribute to fuel economy by squirting oil on the bottom of the pistons. This helps maintain cylinder temperatures and reduces the possibility of hot spots along the cylinder walls or at the top of the piston that could lead to spark knock.

When combined with either six-speed manual or Dual Dry Clutch Transmissions, the 1.4-litre MultiAir II turbo produces a maximum 140hp at 5500rpm and 230Nm of torque at 1750rpm. When paired with the nine-speed automatic gearbox, the four-wheel drive 1.4-litre delivers 170hp at 5000rpm with 250Nm of torque at 2500rpm.

The other petrol engine is the 1.6-litre E-torQ. This delivers 110hp at 5500rpm with peak torque of 152Nm at 4500rpm. This lightweight engine that’s only available in front-wheel drive models has unique components such as graphite coated pistons to reduce friction and weight, forged connecting rods and an aluminium oil pan to help weight savings. The resulting engine delivers high torque at relatively low rpm and has low fuel consumption.

Both petrol engines are equipped with Stop&Start to shut down and restart the engine automatically to reduce the amount of time it spends idling. Fuel economy gains can range from five to 10 per cent. All the Renegade’s petrol engines meet strict Euro 6 emissions legislation.

Transmissions: segment-first nine speed

The 1.4-litre MultiAir and 2.0-litre MultiJet can both be specified with a nine-speed automatic gearbox. This smooth shifting unit has been designed to provide a more responsive driving experience with quicker acceleration and more efficient power delivery at speed. The wide spread of ratios includes a first gear ratio of 4.71 for efficient and snappy launches at low rpm. Small steps in gear ratios make for improved shifting refinement while a set of four overdrive ratios improves motorway fuel economy and reduces overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels.

There are more than 20 different shift maps designed to optimise gearchange quality while improving fuel economy, performance and driveability. The fully electronic gearbox changes between maps on the move to ensure it’s always using the best for the conditions. To determine the best shift mode, it takes into account variables such as torque, kick downs, longitudinal and lateral acceleration and gradient changes. It also closely monitors temperature, speed and Electronic Stability Control activation for improved comfort and refinement.

All versions of the nine-speed automatic feature a manual shift capability where clutchless manual changes can be prompted by the driver using the gear lever. On Renegade Trailhawk models, the 20:1 low gear crawl ratio is enabled by a 4.71:1 first gear coupled with a 4.334:1 final drive.

Jeep Renegade models with the 140hp 1.4-litre MultiAir, 120hp 1.6-litre MultiJet and 140hp 2.0-litre MultiJet can be specified with a six-speed manual transmission. This has a 6.68 ratio spread and a 4.438 final-drive ratio for better fuel efficiency at faster speeds. And thanks to its first-gear launch ratio of 18.4:1, the gearbox delivers quick acceleration with a smooth and precise shift action. This state-of-the-art gearbox is designed and built by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and belongs to a new group of transverse, three-shaft transmissions. These are more compact than transmissions with two shafts.

The 1.4 MultiAir engine can also be ordered with a six-speed automatic Dry Dual Clutch Transmission (DDCT). Using two rather than one clutch to connect engine and gearbox minimises any breaks in power transmitted to the ground because the ratios of odd-numbered gears can be synchronised while even numbers are in operation making for speedier shifts. The result is improved vehicle performance and driver comfort.

Shifts are implemented by means of an electro-hydraulic actuator system that is managed by a dedicated electronic control unit. The dry clutches are controlled by means of hydraulic Clutch Slave Cylinders with sensors.

The 1.6-litre E-Torq engine is only available with a five-speed manual gearbox. This proven C510 gearbox has beenupgraded for improved shift quality and features a 3.929 final-drive ratio to deliver quicker acceleration and faster top speed without compromising fuel efficiency.

DRIVING: CLASS LEADING ON ROAD AND OFF

The Jeep Renegade doesn’t just have to deliver class-leading on-road performance, dynamics and passenger safety, it must also have best-in-class off-road capability. The Renegade is the first Jeep to be built exclusively in Europe and then sold in the US and is a coordination between American engineering and design and Italian craftsmanship and execution.

The Jeep Renegade is the first FCA vehicle to use the small-wide 4x4 architecture. This employs common, modular and interchangeable components which means vehicles with different wheelbases, front and rear tracks, front overhang and length and width can be built using the same basic underpinnings. The result is better quality and reliability, less development time and improved tooling.

This all new small-wide 4x4 architecture has an upper body structure and frame engineered as a single unit for a stiffer structure. The rigidity is attributed to the use of around 70 per cent high strength steel and the liberal use of structural adhesives. For additional weight and strength optimisation, the Renegade features an aluminium bonnet, front cross beam and hybrid rear crash box. High strength and hot-stamped steels in the upper and under body A and B pillars, front header, sills and rails contribute to the Jeep Renegade’s roof strength while enhancing visibility by allowing thinner pillar sections. The result is world-class torsional stiffness for optimum body control and better high speed on-road manoeuvres while weight efficiency is better too.

Suspension

Improved suspension brackets and cradle attachments ensure impressive stiffness at those points and minimize low frequency noise into the cabin. The rigidity helps with chassis tuning and leads to the Renegade’s solid, confident and refined feel while also enabling up to 210mm of ground clearance and 205mm of rear wheel articulation on Trailhawk models. This most off-road focused version of the Renegade has an impressive 30-degree approach angle, 24-degree breakover and 34-degree departure angles.

At the front, MacPherson front suspension gives 170mm of wheel articulation, increasing cornering performance and reducing weight. The result is best-in-class off-road performance combined with the dynamics and comfort buyers expect from a small SUV.

A specially designed front cross member provides rigidity thereby helping to deaden intrusive noise and integrate a third load line to improve energy absorption in the event of a crash. A new innovation is the ‘split’ type shock absorber mounting. This transmits road vibrations to the body structure through two different routes for improved acoustics and better shock absorber efficiency. The chassis architecture also enjoys an isolated rear cradle. This provides attachment points for the lightweight Chapman suspension design’s two lateral links and half shafts. The high-mounted strut type shock absorber and coil springs enables the Renegade to maximise spring rates for enhanced performance on and off road.

The Renegade is the first Jeep to employ Koni’s Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) front and rear strut system. In addition to road holding and handling benefits, this actively filters out high-frequency suspension inputs from uneven road surfaces and adjusts for comfort and smoothness while maintaining excellent ride control.

Electric Power Steering

The Jeep Renegade has Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Driving Steering Torque (DST) systems to improve handling and performance. The column-mounted EPS uses the latest technology to deliver sporty handling by managing significant loads at all steering wheel operating speeds. Power assist curves are modulated according to driving conditions meaning an improvement in fuel efficiency of up to three percent compared with a conventional hydraulic system because there is no parasitic loss from a power steering pump.

The DST system actively carries out corrections and automatically controls oversteer on surfaces with low grip in all driving conditions. The steering system is fully integrated with the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to help compensate in situations such as split traction and torque steer.

In order to make the Jeep Renegade’s interior a quiet and relaxing place to spend time, the structural design isolates powertrain, wind and road noise. This small SUV also boasts a noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) package that includes laminated acoustic windscreen glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush rolled-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheelarch liners to absorb road noise and quieten the cabin.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: OVER 60 SYSTEMS

As it’s primarily going to be used as a family car, the new Jeep Renegade has been designed with safety and security built in. The huge array of safety and security features includes the segment’s first use of Forward Collision Warning Plus with Crash Mitigation and LaneSense^TM Lane Departure Warning Plus. The high level of standard safety equipment includes six airbags (advanced multi-stage airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags, side bags) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM). Also available are Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and ParkView rear reversing camera with dynamic grid lines (as part of the optional Parking Pack).

The Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation – a first in the category – employs radar and video sensors to detect whether the Renegade is approaching another vehicle or large obstacle in its path too rapidly. It then warns and assists the driver to avoid or lessen the consequences of the incident.

The LaneSense^TM Lane Departure Warning Plus system uses a camera-based vision sensor to establish the Renegade’s position on the road. If an unintentional lane drift occurs, determined by trajectory change and the absence of indicating, the system will deliver a visual warning and a haptic warning – the subtle introduction of torque from the Electric Power Steering (EPS). If the driver unintentionally drifts too far, the system provides a secondary visual warning.

The Blind Spot Monitoring uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of the vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the side-view mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), when activated, decreases the vehicle’s pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane, or when another vehicle pulls into that same lane. ACC will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane. The system will also maintain a driver adjustable distance between the vehicle and the one in front of it and is particularly useful when driving in adverse weather or reduced visibility.

In addition to these advanced and innovative safety features, the Jeep Renegade’s safety and security equipment includes:

1.     Active turn signals allow the indicator to flash three times when the stalk is depressed for one second to signify a lane change

2.     Advanced multi-stage airbags inflate with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. They meet advanced airbag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants

3.     Full-length side curtain airbags extend protection to all front and outside rear seat passengers. Each side airbag has its own impact sensor that independently triggers the airbag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of airbag is housed in the headlining just above the side windows

4.     All-speed traction control system uses part of the standard Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). It helps prevent driving wheels spinning during acceleration by braking wheels independently or in combination and with engine torque limitation to prevent wheel slip

5.     Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) senses and prevents wheel lock up, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions

6.     ABS with rough-road detection can tell if the vehicle is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. The ABS then knows to hold the brake pressure for longer pulses

7.     Auto-dimming rear-view mirror automatically reduces glare from bright light allowing the driver to have a clearer view of the road ahead and behind

8.     Automatic defog enables the Renegade’s automatic temperature control (ATC) system to measure humidity inside the vehicle and provide a fog-free windscreen automatically without driver intervention

9.    Automatic headlamps turn on and off automatically depending on exterior light levels and whether the windscreen wipers are turned on or off

10.  Automatic high-beam headlamps adjust to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting

11.  Auto-reverse My Sky panels automatically stops and reverses when it senses an obstruction during closing of the My Sky sun roof (when specified)

12.  Auto-reverse windows automatically stop and reverse when the electric windows sense an obstruction during closing

13.  BeltAlert activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up

14.  Brake Assist applies maximum braking power, to minimise the stopping distance in an emergency braking situation

15.  Brake-Lock Differential System (BLDS) allows the vehicle to maintain forward motion if one or two wheels lose traction by selectively and aggressively braking the spinning wheels

16.  Brake-throttle override is designed to step in when throttle and brake inputs occur simultaneously possibly in an emergency situation. The electronic throttle control reduces engine power output until the vehicle stops or pedal inputs cease

17.  Brake/park interlock prevents the transmission from being shifted out of ‘Park’ unless the brake pedal is pushed

18.  Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from standstill or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s)

19.  Capless fuel-filler door simplifies fuel filling and eliminates contact with any fuel spillage

20.  Child-protection rear door locks disable the rear doors’ interior release handle by adjusting a small lever on the door-shut face

21. Child seat anchor system LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats

22.  Constant-force retractors (CFR) regulate the force exerted on the occupant by the seatbelt and then gradually release the seatbelt in a controlled manner

23.  Daytime Running Lights (DRL) illuminate during daytime conditions, increasing the vehicle’s visibility to other drivers

24.  Dual-note electric horns produce two different tones at the same time to cut through ambient noise

25.  Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS) makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting, flashing the hazard lights and unlocking the doors on the Renegade after airbag deployment. Also shuts down fuel flow to the engine

26.  Electric Parking Brake (EPB) uses the parking brake switch mounted in the centre console, a Motor On Caliper (MOC) at each rear wheel and an electronic control module. It has four modes of operation: static apply and release, dynamic apply, drive away release, and safe hold

27.  Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) assists the driver to minimise stopping distances and control the vehicle by regulating braking pressure front-to-rear

28.  Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) is an extension of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). It uses inputs from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of rolling over, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed

29.  Electronic Stability Control (ESC) enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions, particularly in turns and on mixed surface conditions such as snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle’s path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver’s intended path

30.  Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC) provides the driver with trip, temperature, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and other vehicle information within the Renegade’s instrument cluster

31.  Energy-absorbing steering column is a manually adjustable steering column using two hydro-formed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other. This allows the column to move forwards for enhanced energy absorption during a crash. The power adjustable steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during impact for optimal energy management

32.  Energy management system is three front load paths designed from high-strength steel to manage vehicle crush and minimize cabin intrusion

33.  One-touch up/down windows permits the electric windows to go up or down with one-touch to the button on the front driver and passenger-side door

34.  Front and rear crumple zones are specially formed structural members that crumple and absorb energy in a collision, helping protect the cabin’s occupants

35.  Front seatbelt adaptive/active load limiters are designed to reduce chest loading in an impact

36.  Front seatbelt pretensioners are triggered during a collision when impact sensors initiate them to remove seatbelt slack, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant’s head and torso

37.  Front-seat mounted side pelvic thorax bags provide enhanced protection to the driver and front passenger in certain impacts. Each side airbag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side airbags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat

38.  Front wiper blade de-icer prevents wiper blades from freezing to the front windscreen and improves cold-weather wiping

39.  Global Position Sensor (GPS) is used for navigation guidance and electronic vehicle tracking

40.  Height-adjustable seat belts (front-row) allow the seat belt to be placed in the optimal position for any driver

41.  Hill Start Assist (HSA) helps drivers to start from stationary on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal. If the throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released

42.  Hill Descent Control allows the Renegade to descend steep hills with minimal driver input

43.  Keyless Enter ’N’ Go^TM permits an individual to enter the vehicle without using the key. Electronic sensors detect when the vehicle key fob is present and allow the driver to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition

44.  Occupant Restraint Controller detects an impact and determines whether a crash is severe enough to trigger airbag deployment and whether the primary or secondary stage inflation is sufficient. In addition, the controller detects side impacts and determines whether the side curtain and side seat-mounted (thorax protection) airbags should deploy. Engagement of front seat-belt pretensioners are also managed through the controller

45.  ParkSense rear park assist system utilizes ultrasonic sensors at low speeds in Reverse to detect stationary objects. If it detects an imminent collision the system will provide a momentary, autonomous brake then release. At speeds below 4mph the system will bring the vehicle to a stop before releasing

46.  ParkView rear reversing camera provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains dynamic grid lines to aid the driver when manoeuvring into parking spaces or narrow areas. Also helps line up a trailer to the vehicle’s tow bar, when so equipped. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is moved into Reverse

47.  Ready Alert Braking (RAB) anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against the discs in order to decrease the time required for full brake application

48.  Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the side-view mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime

49.  Remote keyless entry locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. The remote also arms and disarms the security alarm system

50.  Safety cage body structure protects occupants by managing and controlling energy in the event of an impact

51.  Security alarm deters vandalism and theft, frequently lowering insurance premiums. The system protects the vehicle from theft by monitoring door-ajar switches and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entry

52.  Sentry Key engine immobilizer uses an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a pre-programmed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will stop after a few seconds

53.  Side guard door beams are reinforced beams inside the doors that increase occupant protection in a side collision

54.  Additional indicators are built into the housing of exterior mirrors so that turn signals can be viewed from the front, as well as the sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians

55.  Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument cluster display offers drivers a wide range of customisation options, from a basic analogue read-out to a full digital display that clearly communicates vehicle information with easy-to-understand icons

56.  Three-point seat belts are on all five seats

57.  Tilt-and-telescoping steering column allows the steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver airbag, if deployed

58.  Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) informs the driver when tyre pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver. The TPMS self-learns tyre position after rotation or if the tyre is moved to a new location

59.  Trailer-Sway Control (TSC) reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions caused by crosswinds and traffic. The system monitors the vehicle’s movement relative to the driver’s intended path. It then applies alternating brake pressure to slow the vehicle and increases the pressure on one front wheel in order to counteract the sway induced by the trailer

60.  Uconnect Voice Command is an in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows drivers to operate a Bluetooth compatible phone with their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. When the Bluetooth phone is initially connected, the contact list is automatically downloaded, synchronizing as many as 1000 phone book entries. These can then be selected by simply saying a contact name.

MOPAR: A NEW LEVEL OF CUSTOMER SERVICE

Jeep recognises that the people who buy the new Renegade will want to be able to personalise their vehicle to their own taste and enjoy a high level of customer service. They are catered for byMopar® which provides a wide range of aftersales products and services.

More than 110 accessories are available for the new Jeep Renegade, all developed in collaboration with the Renegade’s design team to ensure they blend seamlessly with the vehicle they’re fitted to. Drivers can go almost as far as they want to in customising their Renegade. There are original stickers for the bonnet, doors and rear side panels, among them the iconic US Army Star in either black or white. Drivers can also buy mirror covers and front grilles in four different shades; there are alloy wheels and roof-mounted lights, to emphasise further the Renegade’s off-road credentials. To increase functionality Mopar sells a wide range of roof boxes and tow bar mounted systems designed for transporting winter and water sports equipment such as bikes, surfboards, skis and snowboards. In addition there’s a range of internal mats and other accessories designed to enable owners to protect and get the most out of their luggage compartments.

Mopar doesn’t just mean accessories. Mopar Vehicle Protection (MVP) offers the only Fiat Chrysler Automobiles guaranteed service contracts. These give extensive coverage for mechanical and electrical components and dedicated servicing plans as well as assistance and repairs by specialised technicians using original parts.

The MVP ‘Freedom Pack’ has been developed specially for Jeep Renegade customers. It extends the vehicle’s warranty from three to five years and with the mileage that most suits the customer’s needs. In addition it provides competitively priced servicing and assistance plans to make it easy for owners to keep their vehicles in tip top shape.

As with every other FCA brand, Jeep owners can call a universal Freephone number to access roadside assistance 24/7 and there’s an official Jeep fan page on Facebook and the @JeepCareIT Twitter handle. Showing that the Jeep Renegade isn’t just at the forefront of technology in the equipment it has, it becomes the first Jeep model to use microPOD, a new wireless electronic diagnosis tool for servicing centres. Mopar also employs wiADVISOR. This revolutionary tablet-based equipment permits the technician to inspect the vehicle quickly, efficiently and transparently and then show the customer any potential problems. It demystifies the entire servicing process to make owning a Jeep Renegade much more customer friendly.

MANUFACTURING: BREAKING NEW GROUND

The new Jeep Renegade is the first Jeep to be built outside the USA and then sold in its home country. Production started in July 2014 at the updated SATA (Società Automobilistica Tecnologie Avanzate) plant in Melfi, central southern Italy. Between opening in 1993 and 2013, the 1.9 million square metre Melfi plant has produced 5,645,275 cars including the Fiat Punto, Lancia Ypsilon, Fiat Grande Punto and Punto Evo. Upon re-opening, the SATA plant employed all the best practices and technologies from the FCA group factories. Today it consists of a press, body, paint and assembly shops and employs 5,941 workers.

HISTORY: MORE THAN 70 YEARS IN THE MAKING

As World War Two raged in Europe, the US military realised it needed to update its modified Ford Model T based reconnaissance vehicles. It developed a lengthy specification list and invited 135 vehicle manufacturers to bid on production.

The Willys-Overland Quad design triumphed and quickly became known as the ‘Jeep’. The name’s origins are uncertain. Some claim it came from the slurring of the letters GP, the military abbreviation for General Purpose. Others say it was named after a character ‘Eugene the Jeep’ in the popular Popeye cartoon strip. Whatever, it was a massive success with more than half a million of the drab olive green vehicles built for action in all theatres of World War Two.

After the war Willys trademarked the Jeep name and turned its military vehicle into an off-road workhorse for farmers, the Utility Jeep. The first civilian Jeep, the CJ-2A was built in 1945 and the basic design developed as the years went by. In 1953, Willys-Overland was sold to Henry J Kaiser for $60 million and the company immediately began investigating expanding the Jeep product range.

The CJ-3B, little different to the wartime model, continued in production until 1968. More than 150,000 were sold and other models were added to the range. In 1955 came the CJ-5 which was built until 1983 with more than 600,000 sold.

In 1963 Jeep introduced the first automatic transmission to a four-wheel drive vehicle in the new Wagoneer, a predecessor to the Cherokee. But despite that and the CJ’s success, Kaiser lost money on Jeeps and in 1970 it was bought by American Motors Corporation (AMC). In 1984 the XJ Cherokee became the first SUV to give buyers a choice of 4x4 systems with either part-time or full-time. However, while sales soared, AMC sold Jeep to the Chrysler Corporation on August 5, 1987.

Ever since, Jeep has gone from strength to strength with the new Renegade the latest strand in a rich history of ground-breaking and class-leading 4x4 machines.