Jeep, the iconic American brand known for its rugged off-road vehicles, is entering a new era with its first electric SUV, the Jeep Avenger. The electric vehicle is part of Jeep's ambitious plan to electrify its entire lineup by 2025 and expand its presence in the European market.
The Jeep Avenger is based on the popular Jeep Compass but with a sleeker design and a more advanced technology package. The SUV features a plug-in hybrid system that combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with two electric motors, one on each axle, for a total output of 240 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. The battery pack has a capacity of 11.4 kWh, which allows the vehicle to travel up to 50 km (31 miles) on electric power alone.
The Jeep Avenger also boasts a range of innovative features that enhance its performance and comfort. For example, the vehicle has a selectable driving mode system that allows the driver to choose between four modes: Hybrid, Electric, E-Save, and Sport. Each mode adjusts the powertrain, steering, suspension, and braking settings to optimize efficiency, performance, or battery preservation.
Another feature is the eAWD system, which provides improved traction and stability on any terrain by distributing torque between the front and rear wheels according to the driving conditions. The system also enables the Jeep Avenger to tow up to 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) without compromising its electric range.
The Jeep Avenger electric SUV also offers a high level of connectivity and safety. The vehicle is equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen that runs on the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates and remote services. The vehicle also has a digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, a wireless charging pad, and a premium sound system.
The vehicle also comes with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, park assist and a 360-degree camera.
The Jeep Avenger is expected to go on sale in Europe in the second half of 2023, with a starting price of around $47,000. The vehicle will compete with other electric SUVs in the segment, such as the Hyundai Kona Electric, the Kia e-Niro, and the Peugeot e-2008.
The Jeep Avenger is part of Jeep's broader strategy to become a leader in electrification and sustainability. The brand plans to launch four fully electric models by 2025, as well as introduce solar charging stations at its dealerships and trailheads. The brand also aims to increase its market share in Europe from 1% to 5% by 2025 by offering more models that suit the preferences and regulations of European customers.
The Jeep Avenger electric SUV represents a bold move for Jeep, which has been synonymous with gas-guzzling vehicles for decades. By embracing electrification, Jeep hopes to attract new customers who value environmental responsibility and innovation while retaining its loyal fans who love its heritage and capability. The Jeep Avenger is not just a new vehicle but a new chapter in Jeep's history.
