The Jeep Renegade has limited cargo space and can feel underpowered. It also has a stiff ride on rough roads.
The Jeep Renegade is a popular subcompact SUV known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities. Despite its appeal, the vehicle has certain drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. Limited cargo space means it might not be ideal for long trips or transporting large items.
Additionally, its engine performance can leave drivers wanting more power, especially on highways. The stiff suspension, while great for off-roading, can make daily commutes less comfortable. Understanding these cons can help buyers make a more informed decision about whether the Jeep Renegade suits their needs.

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Table of Contents
ToggleIntroduction To The Jeep Renegade
The Jeep Renegade is a small SUV known for its rugged look. It’s a popular choice for city dwellers and adventurers alike. Despite its charm, the Renegade has its downsides. Let’s explore its background and market presence.
Brief History
The Jeep Renegade was first introduced in 2014. It aimed to capture the compact SUV market. The design combines Jeep’s iconic style with modern features. It was developed to appeal to both young drivers and Jeep enthusiasts.
Popularity And Market Segment
The Renegade quickly gained popularity. It became known for its off-road capabilities and city-friendly size. It fits into the subcompact SUV market. This segment includes vehicles like the Honda HR-V and Ford EcoSport.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Model | Off-road Capability | City Performance |
---|---|---|
Jeep Renegade | High | Moderate |
Honda HR-V | Low | High |
Ford EcoSport | Moderate | High |
Despite its popularity, the Renegade has some drawbacks. Many drivers report issues with its fuel economy and interior space. It’s important to consider these factors before making a purchase.
Performance Shortcomings
The Jeep Renegade is a popular choice for its rugged looks and off-road capabilities. Yet, it has some performance shortcomings that potential buyers should know. Let’s dive into these issues under two main categories: Engine Power and Acceleration and Off-Road Capabilities.
Engine Power And Acceleration
The Jeep Renegade comes with a choice of two engines. These engines are a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine.
- The 2.4-liter engine produces 180 horsepower, which feels underwhelming.
- The 1.3-liter turbocharged engine offers 177 horsepower but lacks punch.
The acceleration is slow, especially during highway merging. This can make overtaking other vehicles challenging. The sluggish response is noticeable in both city and highway driving.
Off-road Capabilities
The Jeep Renegade is marketed as an off-road capable vehicle. While it does have some off-road features, it falls short in several areas.
Feature | Performance |
---|---|
Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches, which is lower than competitors |
Suspension | Not well-suited for rough terrains |
Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds, which is limited |
While the Renegade can handle light off-roading, it struggles in more demanding conditions. The limited ground clearance and suspension make it less capable on rugged trails.
Fuel Efficiency Concerns
The Jeep Renegade is a popular compact SUV. It offers rugged features and a stylish design. Yet, fuel efficiency is a notable concern for many owners.
Comparative Mpg Ratings
Let’s look at the miles per gallon (MPG) ratings:
Vehicle Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
---|---|---|
Jeep Renegade | 21 | 29 |
Honda HR-V | 28 | 34 |
Ford EcoSport | 27 | 29 |
The Jeep Renegade has lower MPG than its competitors. This can be a downside for daily commuters.
Impact On Long-term Ownership Costs
Lower fuel efficiency translates to higher fuel costs:
- More frequent trips to the gas station
- Increased monthly fuel expenses
- Long-term ownership becomes pricier
Fuel efficiency is a significant factor in long-term ownership costs. It affects your budget over the years.
Interior Quality Issues
The Jeep Renegade is known for its rugged look and adventurous spirit. But, its technological features have some limitations. These drawbacks can affect your driving experience.
Infotainment System Drawbacks
The Jeep Renegade’s infotainment system is not the best. The touchscreen can be slow and unresponsive. This can be frustrating when you need quick access to features.
Navigation can also be a problem. The maps are not always up-to-date. This can lead to wrong directions.
The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is a plus. But, the connection can be unstable. This can cause your phone to disconnect suddenly.
Here are some common issues with the infotainment system:
- Slow touchscreen response
- Outdated maps
- Unstable phone connection
Driver-assist Technologies
The Renegade offers some driver-assist technologies. But, they are not as advanced as in other SUVs. The lane-keeping assist can be inconsistent. It sometimes fails to detect lane markings.
The adaptive cruise control is another feature. But, it can be jerky and uncomfortable. This can make long drives less pleasant.
Also, the blind-spot monitoring is not always reliable. It sometimes misses other vehicles. This can be dangerous, especially in heavy traffic.
Here are some driver-assist technology limitations:
- Inconsistent lane-keeping assist
- Jerky adaptive cruise control
- Unreliable blind-spot monitoring
Technological Features And Limitations
Owning a Jeep Renegade can be an adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. Maintenance and reliability are two areas where this SUV faces criticism. While some drivers love their Renegades, others report frequent issues that impact their ownership experience.
Common Mechanical Issues
Many Jeep Renegade owners report common mechanical problems. These issues can range from minor annoyances to significant concerns.
- Transmission problems: Some drivers experience rough shifting or complete transmission failure.
- Electrical issues: Problems with the electrical system can cause the dashboard to light up like a Christmas tree.
- Engine stalling: Unexpected engine stalls can leave drivers stranded.
- Suspension issues: Poor suspension quality can lead to a bumpy ride.
Warranty Coverage And Dealer Support
The Jeep Renegade comes with a standard warranty, but it’s important to know the details.
Warranty Type | Coverage Period |
---|---|
Bumper-to-Bumper | 3 years or 36,000 miles |
Powertrain | 5 years or 60,000 miles |
While the warranty offers some peace of mind, dealer support can vary. Some drivers report excellent service, while others find it lacking. It’s crucial to research your local dealer’s reputation.
Ultimately, understanding these maintenance and reliability concerns can help you make an informed decision about owning a Jeep Renegade.
Maintenance And Reliability Concerns
One of the key factors to consider when buying a vehicle is its resale value and depreciation rate. A car that loses value quickly can be a financial burden. Unfortunately, the Jeep Renegade is one such vehicle. Let’s dive deeper into the specifics.
Market Resale Trends
The resale value of the Jeep Renegade is lower compared to other SUVs. This is due to several factors:
- High initial depreciation
- Market saturation
- Frequent updates and redesigns
According to market data, the Renegade loses about 40% of its value in the first three years. This rapid depreciation affects its attractiveness to second-hand buyers.
Comparisons With Competitors
It’s crucial to compare the Jeep Renegade with its competitors. The following table shows how it stacks up:
Vehicle | 3-Year Depreciation |
---|---|
Jeep Renegade | 40% |
Honda CR-V | 30% |
Toyota RAV4 | 25% |
The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 have a much lower depreciation rate. This makes them more attractive in the used car market.
In summary, the Jeep Renegade’s rapid depreciation and lower resale value are significant drawbacks. Consider these factors before making a purchase decision.
Resale Value And Depreciation
The Jeep Renegade is a fun and adventurous SUV. But, it does have some safety issues. This section will discuss the safety ratings and concerns of the Jeep Renegade. Understanding these points will help you decide if this SUV is right for you.
Crash Test Results
Crash test results are important for any vehicle. They show how well it protects passengers in an accident.
- The Jeep Renegade has mixed crash test results.
- Some tests show good protection, while others show weaknesses.
- For example, the side-impact test has good results.
- But, the small overlap front test shows some concerns.
These mixed results can be worrying for potential buyers.
Safety Feature Omissions
Another concern is the lack of some important safety features.
- Many models lack advanced safety features.
- For example, lane departure warning is not standard.
- Automatic emergency braking is also missing in some trims.
- These features are common in many other SUVs.
Without these features, the Jeep Renegade might not be as safe as other options.
Feature | Availability |
---|---|
Lane Departure Warning | Not Standard |
Automatic Emergency Braking | Not Standard |
Blind Spot Monitoring | Available in Higher Trims |
Consider these safety points before buying a Jeep Renegade. Your safety is very important!
Safety Ratings And Concerns
The Jeep Renegade has garnered mixed reactions from owners and experts. While some appreciate its rugged charm, others highlight several drawbacks. This section delves into both owner feedback and expert opinions to give a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s performance.
Owner Feedback
Owners often mention the following cons in their reviews:
- Fuel Efficiency: Many owners complain about the Renegade’s poor gas mileage.
- Interior Space: The compact design limits legroom and cargo space.
- Reliability Issues: Some report frequent trips to the repair shop.
- Noise Levels: The cabin can be quite noisy, especially on highways.
- Technology Glitches: Infotainment systems sometimes fail or lag.
Below is a table summarizing the key points from owner feedback:
Cons | Details |
---|---|
Fuel Efficiency | Poor gas mileage |
Interior Space | Limited legroom and cargo space |
Reliability Issues | Frequent repairs needed |
Noise Levels | Noisy cabin on highways |
Technology Glitches | Infotainment system failures |
Expert Opinions
Experts also weigh in on the Jeep Renegade’s drawbacks:
- Performance: Experts find the engine underpowered for its size.
- Handling: The Renegade’s handling isn’t as smooth as competitors.
- Build Quality: Some experts note issues with build quality.
- Resale Value: The Renegade has a lower resale value compared to rivals.
- Comfort: The ride is less comfortable, especially on long trips.
Experts summarize these key issues:
- Underpowered engine
- Poor handling
- Build quality concerns
- Low resale value
- Uncomfortable ride
Customer Satisfaction And Reviews
If the Jeep Renegade isn’t the perfect fit, several alternatives exist. These options offer different features, performance, and value. Below, we explore some competing models and other Jeep options.
Competing Models
Several SUVs compete directly with the Jeep Renegade. These vehicles offer various features, driving experiences, and price points.
- Honda HR-V: Known for its spacious interior and fuel efficiency.
- Ford EcoSport: Offers a sporty drive with advanced tech features.
- Chevrolet Trax: Compact yet versatile, with good cargo space.
- Hyundai Kona: Stylish design and packed with modern technology.
Model | Key Feature | Starting Price |
---|---|---|
Honda HR-V | Spacious Interior | $21,420 |
Ford EcoSport | Sporty Drive | $21,240 |
Chevrolet Trax | Versatile Cargo Space | $21,400 |
Hyundai Kona | Modern Technology | $20,500 |
Considering Other Jeep Models
If you prefer the Jeep brand but not the Renegade, consider these models:
- Jeep Compass: Larger than the Renegade, with better off-road capability.
- Jeep Cherokee: Offers more power and a more refined interior.
- Jeep Wrangler: Ultimate off-road vehicle with iconic design.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: Luxury SUV with advanced features and performance.
Each model offers unique benefits and suits different needs. The Compass is great for off-road adventures. The Cherokee provides more power and luxury. The Wrangler is perfect for rugged terrains, and the Grand Cherokee combines luxury with performance.

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Conclusion
The Jeep Renegade has its drawbacks. These include limited cargo space and lower fuel efficiency. The off-road capabilities don’t fully compensate for the on-road performance. Buyers should weigh these cons before making a decision. It’s crucial to test drive and compare with other vehicles.
Consider your needs carefully before purchasing.