Jeep’s most compact SUV, the Avenger, has received a hybrid version known as the 4xe. It will go on pre-order in Q4 2024.
The new Avenger combines a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine with two electric motors, one of which is built into the six-speed dual-clutch transmission and the other one mounted at the rear axle. The engine delivers 136 PS (134 hp / 100 kW), while the motors contribute 29 PS (29 hp / 21 kW) each. As a result, the SUV sprints from zero to highway speed in 9.5 seconds and maxes out at 195 km/h (121 mph).
The suspension design at the rear end has been changed from semi-dependent to multilink to accommodate motor. According to Jeep, this is the first time a mass-produced Jeep vehicle benefits from this suspension type. As for the motor unit itself, it incorporates a purpose-designed reducer that can ramp up the torque at the rear wheels to a cool 1,900 Nm (1,400 lb-ft). As a result, the Avenger can climb slopes up to 40 percent steep, even if the surface is unstable.
The AWD system functions in multiple modes. At under 30 km/h (18 mph), all wheels are driven. The powertrain switches to FWD mode when you faster, but keeps the rear-axle motor coupled in case traction is needed quickly. From 90 km/h (55 mph) onward, the Avenger goes in FWD. You can also select presets like Snow, Dirt and Sport for more specific torque control scenarios.
Other than that, the updated SUV gains +10 mm of ground clearance for a total of 210 mm (8.2 inches), wading depth of 400 mm (15.6 inches) and a mildly revised exterior. The latter includes new bumpers and black wheels shod in M+S tires, among other things.
