The Jeep Renegade is a best-selling compact SUV with its rugged, off-road looks. But one thing on the minds of many buyers is, “Is the Jeep Renegade All Wheel Drive?” While it is highly suspected of being able to go off-road, not all trims come equipped with an all-wheel-drive system.
In this post, we’ll explore the drivetrain options that are available for the Jeep Renegade, contrast their advantages, and give you an idea of whether the all-wheel-drive system is suitable for your driving purposes. Whether you’re driving on off-road terrain or seeking improved traction, we’ve got the answers for you.
2. What Does All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Mean?
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that distributes power to all four vehicle wheels, providing traction and stability. AWD is particularly helpful when raining, snowing, or icing. Unlike four-wheel drive (4WD), which is usually for off-road driving, AWD is automatic and engages all the wheels only when needed to provide traction on slippery surfaces. AWD does not require driver input, making it ideal for bad weather.
Understanding AWD can help to see whether you need it in your driving needs, especially if you drive on diverse road conditions often.
3. Jeep Renegade: A Description of Its Drivetrain Options
Jeep Renegade has two primary drivetrain options: front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). FWD is the normal configuration, where power from the engine is solely driven to the front wheels. This is typically more fuel-efficient and satisfactory for regular driving on firm road surfaces. AWD is available on the majority of higher trim levels, which provides better traction for driving on poorer conditions or adverse weather.
While FWD is great on city roads, AWD is more stable and has more traction on snowy, icy, or wet roads. FWD vs. AWD will be determined by your driving conditions and needs.
4. Is the Jeep Renegade All-Wheel Drive?
No Jeep Renegade models have all-wheel drive as standard equipment. The Renegade base model is equipped with front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, offering excellent gas mileage and good traction for most driving situations.
However, if you want more control in bad weather or off-road driving, AWD is available on most higher trims. The Latitude, Trailhawk, and Limited trims offer AWD as a feature, which you can decide upon depending on how you intend to drive the car. Thus, if AWD is a must for you, make sure to choose a trim level that features this drivetrain.
5. Which Jeep Renegade Models Have AWD?
A number of Jeep Renegade trims feature all-wheel drive (AWD) to suit varying driving tastes. The Renegade Sport is the base model and features front-wheel drive as standard, but AWD can be included as an option.
For better off-road performance and more traction, the Renegade Latitude, Trailhawk, and Limited have AWD. The Trailhawk is particularly built for off-roading, with its even more improved AWD system that enhances its off-road capability. These AWD feature trims all have distinctive features that react to changing drivers’ demands, either for on rough roads or rough weather conditions.
6. How is the Jeep Renegade AWD in Various Conditions?
The all-wheel drive system of the Jeep Renegade functions extremely well in various conditions, with increased traction and stability. On snow or ice-covered roads, the AWD system automatically transfers power to the wheels with maximum grip, so the vehicle does not lose traction. On wet or slippery roads, AWD increases overall stability, giving a smoother ride.
Furthermore, the AWD system of the Renegade allows better performance when driving in dirt, gravel, or uneven terrain, and is a great option for light off-road use. However, for hardcore off-roaders, the Renegade Trailhawk trim, which comes with upgraded AWD, delivers improved off-road capability.
7. Fuel Economy of the Jeep Renegade AWD vs. FWD
Fuel economy is also an important factor in deciding whether to use front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Overall, AWD systems are more gas-hungry than FWD because they power all four wheels, instead of the front wheels. The FWD Jeep Renegade will typically get more miles per gallon, so it will have better gas mileage and be a better city cruiser or highway runner.
The AWD model handles better and stays stable, though, especially in bad weather or ground conditions. If fuel efficiency is your top concern, the FWD model could be the ticket, but if you need better performance, the AWD system is a sacrifice worth making.
8. Does the Jeep Renegade AWD Make a Difference for Off-Roading?
Yes, the all-wheel drive system in the Jeep Renegade makes a huge difference in off-roading, especially when traveling on rough or uneven surfaces. While the base FWD model is sufficient for city driving, the AWD configuration provides more control when driving on gravel roads, wet trails, or snow-covered trails.
For serious off-roading, the Renegade Trailhawk model is the winner. It includes a more advanced AWD system and a higher suspension, the better to tackle bumpier terrain. Whether you’re exploring backcountry trails or handling tough weather, the Renegade AWD offers the necessary support for these adventurous activities.
FAQ’s
Q1: Does every Jeep Renegade come with all-wheel drive?
No, not every Jeep Renegade comes with AWD. The base model features front-wheel drive (FWD), but AWD is available on higher trims like the Latitude, Trailhawk, and Limited models.
Q2: How does AWD differ from 4WD in the Jeep Renegade?
AWD is focused on improving traction in slippery conditions, sending power to all four wheels when needed, where 4WD (four-wheel drive) is more rugged, typically used for hardcore off-road use, sending even more power to all wheels when needed.
Q3: Is the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk an AWD?
Yes, the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk comes equipped with AWD as a base feature, hence ideal for off-road use and traveling over difficult surfaces.
Q4: Is the fuel economy of the Jeep Renegade AWD different from that of FWD?
The Jeep Renegade AWD model is slightly less economical in terms of fuel compared to the FWD model due to the added complexity of the drivetrain and power delivery to all four wheels.
Q5: Is Jeep Renegade AWD appropriate for snow driving?
Yes, the AWD feature of the Jeep Renegade provides enhanced traction and stability on snowy or slippery road surfaces, hence making it a safer choice over FWD under snowy road conditions.
Q6: Does Jeep Renegade AWD have any special maintenance requirements?
While AWD systems will require more servicing than FWD cars due to the additional components, regular service and maintenance should ensure that the system remains in operation.
Conclusion
Choosing a Jeep Renegade with all-wheel drive (AWD) is actually dependent upon your driving situations and personal needs. If you live in an area with harsh winters or frequent rainfall, the AWD system will provide extra confidence and stability on slippery or wet roads. Additionally, if you enjoy mild off-roading or want more control on rough terrain, AWD can enhance the Renegade’s performance.
However, if you prioritize fuel economy or mostly drive on paved roads, the front-wheel drive (FWD) model may suit you better. In the end, whatever you decide between AWD and FWD, the Renegade offers the capability and agility that suits your pace.
Hello there, this is Thomas Byrd. I am a professional car mechanic who leads a team of junior mechanics in a repair and restoration shop. In the beginning, I used to work for a jeep service center as a basic worker. From there I keep learning, changed my job 2 times and now I am a professional who leads a group of mechanics. Though a have expertise in the jeep, I know very well about all types of cars. To share my knowledge and skills with others I have created this blog website. Whenever I get free time from work I give my time to my blog.