Any Jeep Renegade owners here?

[dave1068]

Happy New Years all-

Thinking about going to a smaller SUV and came across some 2016/2017 used Jeep Renegades and they look nice. Sporty, good gas mileage, etc

Any owners here can share their thoughts-

Thanks,
-Dave

[RinkRat II]

 Hi Dave, Hey they're made in Italy! What could go wrong??  Here's the link to tell you more than you want to know
https://www.allpar.com/SUVs/jeep/renegade.html
      Happy hunting and New Year!

           Paul B

[stevet]

Which engine would you be buying?  I'm sure it has a few minor differences due to vehicle applications, but the Fiat 1.4L turbo should be the same basic engine I have in my 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Classica convertible.  Unknown if it shares the same "MultiAir" intake valve system with the Spider, though.  Great engine as far as I can tell, both in my 8000-mile experience and following the Spider forum (124Spider.org).  It has been in service with Fiat/Chrysler for several years.  There is aftermarket support for this engine in the Fiat Spider/500 and Dodge vehicles (EuroCompulsion and 500 Madness to name 2), look around for the Jeep application.

One of the best, and easiest upgrades for this engine has been the GFB (Go Fast Bits, from Australia) DV+ replacement diverter valve unit for the turbo.  (I'm not sure if there is a Renegade application or not.)  The Spider is my first turbo car, and others, typically performance-oriented folk, comment on "turbo lag", waiting for acceleration to come up into the low-2000rpm range for the turbo to really start spooling up, kicking in the normal turbo power.  Snappy with great mid-range pull.  This aftermarket GFB DV+ diverter valve helps slow the loss of boost during gear shifts (manual and auto trans.), helping the turbo to deliver the boost at low rpm.  Turbo lag to me is almost meaningless.  I have a 6-speed manual and I've trained my right foot to hold rpm to the low 2000rpm's when clutching so I don't have much issue with it.  Sort of like riding a motorcycle...  This, along with the GFB DV+ makes my turbo experience just fine.  More about the GFB DV+ at the Spider forum-
http://www.124spider.org/forum/10-engine-technical-discussion/4650-go-fast-bits-gfb-dv.html

Note- this 1.4L turbo engine, due to the turbo boost, requires the use of 91 octane fuel (91 USA equiv.).  And I don't know if the vehicle is capable of towing, if that is important to you.  Lastly, and not to start an oil thread, but the Fiat MultiAir 1.4L turbo does require full synthetic oil that meets Fiat/Chrysler spec MS-12991, and there aren't too many brands that do.  Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W/40 full synthetic does, and this is what I run in my engine and is typically the dealership fill.  Not easy to find, but Amazon sells it.  Check the owner's manual for that Renegade for oil requirements, it could be different.

More about that engine can be found at the various Fiat discussion forums, and I bet there is a Jeep Renegade forum out there as well, that would be the place to check.

Steve.

[ohiorider]

Stevet, thanks for the good info on the 1.4 MultiAir engine.  I have a buddy who likes anything FIAT!  When he owned the 500 Abarth, I had the opportunity to drive it, and found the little engine + turbo to be a peppy package. 

The Renegade offers what I believe to be the same or very similar engine, rated at 160hp.  They also offer a larger non turbo engine, I think it is a 2.4L, but only with the auto tranny which initially got some bad reviews.  The 1.4 version can be had with a standard transmission.  the smaller engine is slightly down on hp, but pumps out a fair amount of torque at relatively low rpm.

I believe the Renegade and FIAT 500X are the only two FCA automobiles manufactured at the Pontedera plant.  I think the L Series is made on the site of the old Yugo factory, and others in Mexico and elsewhere.

I'm going from memory on this, so it isn't gospel.

Bob

[stevet]

Here's how the Fiat MultiAir intake valve system works.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Td9Gz_h7Qpg

Steve.

[LeRoy]

I have a 2016 Renegade 75th Anniversary Edition with 4x4, the 1.4L turbo engine and 6-speed manual transmission. I sought out the 2016 75th Ann Edition because it includes a number of higher-end bits than are usually found on Renegades with the 1.4L/6-speed manual combination. Mine has been a trouble-free ride, but I've only traveled about 6,000 miles so far.

As to the available powertrains for the US and Canada, the 1.4L turbo engine and manual transmission are only available on the entry-level Sport and mid-level Latitude models. All models are available (Sport and Latitiude) or standard (Limited and Trailhawk) with the normally-aspirated 2.4L engine and 9-speed automatic. All Renegades for the US and Canadian market are built at Fiat's Melfi plant in Italy alongside the Fiat 500X. Renegades for other markets are also built in China and Brazil, If I'm not mistaken.

As noted, the small turbo engine is a lot of fun to drive. However, it's not rated for any towing and it's serious lack of low-end torque makes it a sub-optimal choice for off-road work. You simply have to rev it too high at low crawling speeds to get in and out of trouble in tight and tough conditions. It also lacks any kind of underbody protection. But I didn't get it for off-roading and it's performed very well in both around-town and on-the-road driving. Fuel economy isn't as good as you might want because the thing is a brick in aerodynamic terms. My all-around economy is about 25.5 mpg, based on actual measurement instead of the optimistic on-board computer. The engine response is quite good apart from very low torque output below around 2000 rpm. The exhaust has a nice, slightly roarty sound under spirited acceleration. While the Renegade is heavier than other FCA cars with essentially the same engine (Fiat 500 Abarth and 124 Spyder) it still delivers a nice sporty feel and the handling and responsiveness are surprisingly good in a small SUV.

As for fuel, FCA recommends, but does not require, 91 octane gas in the 1.4L turbo engine in the Renegade. It is acceptable to run the thing on 87 octane. As a frugal owner (Guzzi content) I've evaluated both and now use 87 octane and have suffered no ill effects nor any deterioration in measured fuel economy or seat-of-the-pants performance. Interestingly, AAA just concluded a well-designed test of several cars where premium fuel is recommended, but not requited, the Renegade 1.4L among them. Dynamometer testing showed that the engine delivered essentially the same fuel economy and hp/torque figures over a range of throttle and load conditions, whether on 91 or 87 octane fuel. Based on the timing advance curves and engine management settings, it seems that in this application there is nothing to be gained by using higher-octane fuel. Check it out here, but let's not start an octane thread: http://newsroom.aaa.com/2017/12/dont...s-worth-price/    With respect to oil for the 1.4L turbo, it does require a full synthetic EDIT: 5W-40 10W-40 grade meeting FCA specs. For this engine, I'll be thrifty on octane but not on oil.

I might mention a few small annoyances. Interior storage is a bit limited. The vehicle needs more cubbies and driver-acessible storage. The center armrest cupholders are compromised by their slightly rearward location and the movable armrest. My Renegade didn't come with any kind of spare tire, as is the case with most except the Trailhawk model. I find this unacceptable so I bought the available Mopar spare kit. Problem solved for about $280. The A-pillars are somewhat thick and obstruct forward vision a bit, especially when cornering.

On the plus side, I find the car quite comfortable and fun to drive in all conditions. While the rear seat area is tight, especially for entry and exit, four adults can travel in the car reasonably well. The seating position is upright and the roominess feel is accentuated by plenty of headroom and more width than many competitors. The cargo area is reasonable and, with the rear seats folded flat, carrying capacity is pretty impressive.

My impression of the build quality of the Renegade is quite good. Panel fits are tight and consistent. I have no squeaks and rattles. Nothing has fallen off, broken or failed in any way. With that being said, you will hear plenty of horror stories, especially about the 9-speed automatic transmission and some of the more complex electronic features. The caliber and competence of dealer service varies wildly (more Guzzi content). If you want to dig a bit further into owner experiences there are two Renegade forums I've found moderately useful. Check these out:

http://www.jeeprenegadeforum.com
https://toasterjeep.com

Please be aware that neither of these comes anywhere close to WildGuzzi in terms of the level of owner skills and technical savvy. They are populated by enthusiasts, many of whom are younger and inexperienced first-time new vehicle buyers. Many are also oriented to off-road use. As a result, you'll see a lot of interest in lift kits, off-road tires and other similar modifications. I'm also occasionally shocked at the mechanical ignorance or naivete shown in many of the questions and comments. Even so, there's a lot to be gleaned by digging into the forums and searching various topics.

Would I buy it again? You bet! I was looking for a fun-to-drive small SUV with four-wheel drive, a manual transmission, a higher than average level of features and options, and a reasonable price. When I sorted out the offerings on the market, there wasn't much to choose from apart from the Renegade and a Subaru or two. The Renegade won. That being said, If I was shopping among used Renegades, especially with the 2.4L engine and 9-speed automatic transmission, I would insist on a look at its entire service history. Those are the cars that have been troublesome for many owners. Finally, I'd steer away from any 2015 models simply because of the high infant mortality rate on first-year FCA vehicles overall.

[drums4money]

The Renegade offers what I believe to be the same or very similar engine, rated at 160hp.  They also offer a larger non turbo engine, I think it is a 2.4L, but only with the auto tranny which initially got some bad reviews.  The 1.4 version can be had with a standard transmission.  the smaller engine is slightly down on hp, but pumps out a fair amount of torque at relatively low rpm.

I always liked the boxy utilitarian look of the Renegade. 

I was recently in for an oil change on my Fiat Abarth, and left with a Jeep Compass.  We recently moved to the north side of our region where it's a little more rural, and weather seems to be on the pessimistic side of the forecasts.  Wasn't good mojo for the Abarth at all in those conditions.

I'd never really considered "Jeep" anything, until I got up close to it in the showroom.  Price-wise (base model to base model) there's just about $700 separating the Renegade & Compass.  The Renegade & Fiat 500x share the same powertrain & chassis as I understand from the salesman. I like the Fiat 500x, too!  My Compass has the non-turbo 2.4L 4cyl. AND a 6-speed manual trans.  The fit & finish all around is very very nice.  Nicer than all my previous cars including Jag, BMW.  I was truly impressed.  It's a slug compared to the get-up & go of the little Abarth, but needs change and it's very practical.. I also like the manual shift!  The 2.4L runs on regular pump gas. 

As OhioRider mentioned above, the torque's good.  Appears to be surefooted in the snow & slush.  Build quality far exceeded my expectation.  I loved the multi-air engine in the Abarth, and never had a single reliability issue with it.

[stevet]

LeRoy, it's funny how my Fiat Spider and your Jeep Renegade have the same engine (is yours the MultiAir engine?), and FCA says you can use 87 to 91 octane and 10w/40 FCA-spec oil.  Okay, I checked my owner's manual, it really wants 91 octane and then gives the typical precautions when less than 91.  But 5w/40 synthetic oil is specified.  Weird.

Glad to hear you are enjoying your Italian-made hotrod as much as I'm enjoying mine.  (Wait, mine was built in... oh, uh, never mind.)

drums, which Abarth did you trade, the 500 or 124?

Steve.

[betres]

Dave,

The Mrs. is on her second Renegade after a young fellow broadsided her at about 45/50mph.  The Jeep was totaled and did a beautiful job in protecting her.  Nothing but a couple of minor bruises. She has had the 2.4 engine in both vehicles with the 9 speed and the new/2017 has all the hesitation issues associated with the earlier ones sorted out.  As LeRoy said, the car is comfortable, solid build quality, very nice interior materials and pricing on new and used is very good in my estimation. Mileage is low to mid 20's on regular fuel, the Mopar tire kit is a must, and we would recommend this vehicle quite highly. Have no idea why Consumer Reports graded it so low, really missed the boat on this one I believe.  I'm sure that adds to the good pricing in the used market.   Good luck.

[LeRoy]

LeRoy, it's funny how my Fiat Spider and your Jeep Renegade have the same engine (is yours the MultiAir engine?), and FCA says you can use 87 to 91 octane and 10w/40 FCA-spec oil.  Okay, I checked my owner's manual, it really wants 91 octane and then gives the typical precautions when less than 91.  But 5w/40 synthetic oil is specified.  Weird.

stevet -- I was mistaken on the oil weight. That's the problem when working from memory. As you note, the 1.4L turbo engine actually requires 5W-40 full synthetic. I've changed my post to reflect this. However, it's quite happy with the permissible 87 octane fuel! And I'm quite happy to save about $6.00 per fill up.

[Orange Guzzi]

I recently bought a low mileage Dodge Neon.  I found this web site that cover many areas of the MOPAR product history.  I was amazed at how so many vehicles are the same on the inside and different on the outside.  Fun reading.  The development of a Chrysler 16 cylinder double crank over head cam engine (engine is built upside down) for an airplane was interesting.

https://www.allpar.com/

https://www.allpar.com/news/2017/12/is-this-the-next-gen-renegade-39215

[nc43bsa]

Whenever I see a yellow Renegade I think of Calculon on Futurama.     

[Lannis]

I still think that this:



was designed to look like this guy ….

[nc43bsa]

Perhaps the guy who designed this:



looks like this:



 

[dave1068]

Finally got a 2016 Trailhawk with 33k miles and was given $10k on trade for my 2011 Nissan XTerra.

[Kev m]

Finally got a 2016 Trailhawk with 33k miles and was given $10k on trade for my 2011 Nissan XTerra.

Looks fun, enjoy.