The Jeep Renegade is a relatively new model for the automaker. First released in 2015, the Renegade is a subcompact crossover SUV that’s part of the Jeep lineup.
It’s built to be a yet sophisticated go-anywhere vehicle. So far, it has been praised for its off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, and distinctive style. But if you’re considering the Renegade, you may be wondering which is the best model year to go with.
Looking at its short history, it’s clear that Jeep has done an impressive job of continuously improving its product. Every new version comes with exciting updates, from better tech features to enhanced performance capabilities.
So let’s take a look at what each of these Renegades has to offer and see which one will suit your needs the best. There’s still only one generation of the Renegade so every model year on this list comes from the first generation.
Top Pick: 2022 Jeep Renegade (1st Generation)
Our top pick for the best Jeep Renegade so far goes to the 2022 model year. It has been recently updated and features a range of new features and technology, as well as modern safety features as rated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The 2022 Renegade is available in a variety of trim levels, giving you plenty of options to choose from. These include the Sport, Latitude, Trailhawk Elite, and the Limited.
Depending on your budget and needs, you can opt for a Sport trim with a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine and nine-speed automatic transmission or upgrade to the luxurious Trailhawk trim with a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Regardless of which one you go with, both trims provide decent power with up to 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the Renegade’s 4×4 configuration allows for off-road capabilities. In terms of fuel economy, the Renegade offers an EPA-estimated 24 city/32 highway MPG rating (on certain models).
Other features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, hands-free park assist, and lane keep assist.
All in all, the 2022 Jeep Renegade is a great option for those seeking an off-road vehicle that offers plenty of features and reliable performance. Whether you’re looking for a rugged workhorse or a luxurious ride, the Renegade does fit the bill.
Price-wise, the Renegade typically goes for around $23,000 to $32,000 on the used market, based on the trim level, features, and other additions.
Runner-Up: 2019 Jeep Renegade (1st Generation)
Taking the Runner-Up spot is the 2019 Jeep Renegade. Though it’s not the most recent model, the 2019 Renegade still offers an impressive range of features that make it worth considering.
The 2019 Renegade is available in four trim levels—the Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk Elite—with engine options that include a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir engine and six-speed manual transmission or a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with nine-speed automatic transmission.
The 2.4L engine generates up to 180 horsepower and as much as 200 lb-ft of torque. This makes the vehicle quite a capable off-roader and towing vehicle though critics point out that it’s quite sluggish on the road. Fuel efficiency ratings are 24 city/32 highway MPG, which aren’t exactly spectacular.
Still, the design of the 2019 Renegade was given an updated look featuring sharper lines for a more rugged and refined appearance. It also features available tech like dual-zone climate control, a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, 7.0- or 8.4-inch driver information digital cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, heated front seats, and more.
If you’re in the market for a 2019 Renegade, expect to pay between $20,000 and $24,000 for a used model.
Runner-Up: 2017 Jeep Renegade (1st Generation)
Finally, the 2017 Jeep Renegade rounds out our list as the runner-up of the best Jeep Renegade models so far. The 2017 model packs a punch when it comes to reliability, design, and features—all at an affordable price.
When it comes to trims and variants, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Depending on your needs and budget, you can go for the base model Sport trim or upgrade to the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk with its off-road features.
There’s also a diesel option available in certain markets if that’s something that interests you. Your engine options are either a 160-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder or a 180-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, depending on which trim you’re getting.
The transmission options include a 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic, so you can find the perfect combination for your driving style.
The 2017 Renegade is available in two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and front-wheel drive configurations, giving you plenty of flexibility to customize it to fit your needs. And if good gas mileage is high on your list of priorities, the 2017 model offers up to 31 MPG highway and 24 MPG city with its 2.4-liter engine.
As far as price goes, used models of the subcompact SUV are relatively affordable; they usually go for around $18,000 to $20,000, depending on condition and mileage.
The 2017 model year does have its share of issues, particularly with its powertrain including excessive oil consumption and jerky shifting. Some lists might even have this model year as among the Renegade’s worst. However, with relatively fewer complaints and a decent price point, we’re placing it as a qualified runner up.
Which Jeep Renegade Is for You?
[Support Image: 2023 Jeep Renegade outdoors]There are plenty of options out there for a subcompact crossover, but the Jeep Renegade should surely be among your choices if you’re in the market for one. Despite limited sample size and just one generation, the Jeep Renegade does have some pretty good model years.
It’s true that there are some common complaints among many owners regarding engine stalling, transmission problems, and electrical problems in used Jeep Renegade models, especially the ones not on this list. But given the vehicle’s high reliability rating so far, the Renegade still is a great choice for the segment.
As long as you choose one of our top picks and know what to look for, you can rest assured that you’ll be driving the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for a reliable ride, all-terrain performance, or just want a vehicle that looks good on the streets, there’s a Jeep Renegade for you.