2015 Jeep Renegade Latitude

By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos FCA Media

The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade expands the brand’s vehicle lineup, entering the growing small sport-utility vehicle segment, while staying true to the adventurous lifestyle Jeep is known for.

Exterior
At the front, Renegade is decidedly Jeep with its signature seven-slot grille and accent colored shield surround. Like the Wrangler, the body-color vertical windshield surround provides visual strength to the vehicle. Large circular head lamps are tucked under the hood at the top for a meaner look. Below the grille, a two-piece front fascia is aerodynamically tuned and features a body-color upper and molded-in-color lower for durability against the elements.

Linking the side profile to the rear is the familiar Jeep shield-shape that ties in the rear backlight and Wrangler-like square tail lamps with black accent surround. For added detail, the tail lamps feature a new X form design theme inspired by military equipment exuding strength and playing on Jeep brand’s roots. Below, the molded-in-color fascia integrates the optional trailer hitch receiver cleanly, along with red rear reflectors for added nighttime
visibility.

Interior
The all new interior features a rugged and energetic appearance that builds upon the Jeep brand’s legendary heritage. It’s precisely crafted details, innovative and high-quality color and material appointments, state of the art technology, and clever storage features draw inspiration from contemporary extreme sports gear and lifestyles.

For the driver, the 2015 Jeep Renegade features a unique steering wheel with a thick, substantial rim section. Integrated audio, voice, and vehicle controls add a new level of convenience and sophistication to the small SUV market.

The lower instrument panel neatly integrates climate controls, a dampened glove box and the media center with USB, auxiliary input and 12-volt power connectivity for mobile devices. Similar to the X-shape inspired roof and tail lamps are the two front cup holders with the same embossed design detail that also helps to grip and secure different-sized beverage containers.

Passenger seats are ergonomically designed to support the contour of the body during longer journeys, and are trimmed with premium cloth or leather. The Renegade includes a second row 60/40-split seats, or for added convenience, 40/20/40 split seats with cargo area pass-through is available.

Connectivity
The Uconnect 5.0 system features a 5-inch touchscreen that enables handsfree calling via Bluetooth-equipped phones, as well as voice-command control of AM/FM, and optional SiriusXM Radio and USB media port.

Upping the ante is the available Uconnect 6.5AN model with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, voice operation of AM/FM and standard SiriusXM Radio, mobile phones and navigation system.

Additional features include handsfree calling, text messaging and audio streaming via compatible Bluetooth-enabled phones, personalization settings and a premium media hub with USB and auxiliary ports, as well as SD card reader. The Uconnect 6.5AN system is available with an optional ParkView rear backup camera.

Engine
Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine generates 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque to provide a spirited driving experience on Jeep Renegade Sport and Latitude 4×2 and 4×4 models.

Boost pressure is dynamically managed to provide a broad torque curve over a wide variety of ambient conditions, with a peak pressure of 22 psi at 4,000 rpm. Exclusive MultiAir valve-actuation technology controls intake air, cylinder by cylinder and stroke by stroke. The resulting precision reduces carbon-dioxide emissions and boosts fuel-economy up to 7.5 percent compared with engines equipped with conventional valvetrains.

Transmission
All-new 2015 Jeep Renegade Sport and Latitude models equipped with the standard 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo feature a six-speed manual transmission with 6.68 ratio spread and a 4.438 final-drive ratio for fuel efficiency at faster speeds. And thanks to its first-gear launch ratio of 18.4:1, the gearbox delivers quick acceleration with smooth, precise shift quality. A tubular intermediate shaft with equal-length half shafts helps mitigate unwanted torque steer.

Summary
The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade Latitude symbolizes the brand’s renowned American design, ingenuity and innovation, marking the Jeep brand’s first entry into the small SUV segment. Renegade expands the brand’s product portfolio and targets the rapidly expanding
small SUV segment with a best in class combination of fuel efficiency, while at the same time delivering outstanding driving dynamics.

EPA fuel economy estimates are 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The base manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $21,295.00 for the 2015 Renegade Latitude FWD, the one I drove included the Customer Preferred Package 21J (Tonnneau Cover), and it came in at $22,365.00, which includes a $995.00 destination charge.
mlezcano@cansntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, Jeep.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

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