Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October 2022, even though we honestly thought it would be electric, the Jeep Avenger 4xe expands the range of the small Italo-American B-SUV, giving it all-wheel drive and positioning it as the first 4xe model that is not a plug-in hybrid but features efficient mild hybridization.
The car will be available by the end of 2024 and presents itself as even more aggressive, with a strong and almost separate identity from the more traditional Avenger, thanks to stylistic choices aimed at making its more adventurous vocation visible.
Jeep Avenger 4xe, the right power for adventures
If the Jeep Avenger is a successful project in many aspects and already able to provide various satisfactions, it still lacked all-wheel drive, essential for any car of this brand. Thus, the Jeep Avenger 4xe remains designed for urban, everyday use, but looks more towards those who go on excursions, trekking, and love to leave traditional paths on weekends.
Thanks to the new powertrain, already known from the Alfa Romeo Junior (ex Milano): it is the new dynamic hybrid at 48 Volts, with a 1.2-liter turbo engine delivering 136 HP combined with two electric motors of 21 kW each, one on the front axle and one on the rear axle. The layout also includes a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, allowing for electric driving at low speeds, up to 30 km/h, thanks to a more significant electric counterpart compared to the average mild hybrids. The electric component also contributes to more sporty performance, thanks to the e-Boost function in Sport mode.
The maximum speed therefore rises to 194 km/h, compared to 184 of the Avenger e-Hybrid, and offers a 0-100 km/h time of 9.5 seconds thanks to the 25 N/m of additional torque and 36 more HP than the single-drive Avenger e-Hybrid. Off-road capability is further enhanced by other specific interventions, such as improved approach, breakover, and departure angles (22°, 21°, and 35°), a ground clearance increased by 10 mm, and a wading depth of up to 400 mm.
Permanent All-Wheel Drive
All-wheel drive is always available with a 50:50 distribution up to 30 km/h and on-demand between 30 and 90 km/h. Thanks to the powertrain combined with the 22.7:1 reducer positioned on the rear axle, capable of delivering 1900 N/m of torque to the rear wheels and thus overcoming slopes of up to 40% on very challenging terrains, like gravel. In the absence of grip on the front axle, the Jeep Avenger 4xe can still overcome slopes of up to 20%.
Moreover, even with zero N/m of torque, the rear electric motor remains connected to the wheels for unexpected needs. When all-wheel drive is engaged, the torque distribution is based on the real-time need, with distribution up to 50:50, while at speeds above 90 km/h, the all-wheel drive returns to permanent, and the rear electric motor is disconnected from the axle, reducing fuel consumption.
The Selec-Terrain function is indispensable, with different driving modes:
- Auto, with all-wheel drive only on demand to reduce emissions and consumption. Ideal for urban driving;
- Snow, with better stability control and intelligent all-wheel drive for safe travel;
- Sand&Mud, suitable for irregular terrains with specific traction control and gear ratios;
- Sport, which maximizes the power and torque of the 4xe system with e-Boost on the rear wheels.
The package is completed by the Multilink rear suspension configuration, a new solution launched by Jeep. Typical of larger vehicles, it improves rear axle articulation and ensures comfort even on the most bumpy roads.
A New Aesthetic
The Jeep Avenger 4xe takes the vehicle’s aesthetics to the extreme with new stylistic solutions. Starting from the grille-light assembly, which appears even darker thanks to reinforced black plastic elements that amplify its dimensions and give it a meaner look.
The bumper is also new, with a much larger anti-scratch black plastic part and green elements in the lower grille, as well as new glossy black wheels and optional adhesive stripes on the entire body. The 4xe logo on the tailgate is also in green. The roof bars and rear tow hook have been carefully designed to improve the car’s robustness.
Inside, the interiors are familiar, but there are also some new features. For example, the seats are protected by an anti-stain and anti-mud solution to make them easier to clean.
