Jeep Avenger 4xe Gets AWD and Fresh Looks, but Only for Europe
The Jeep Avenger 4xe adds some off-road capability, unique styling, and AWD to the tiny subcompact’s list of offerings.
Here in the SUV/crossover-obsessed U.S., we’re just used to having a multitude of options in those particular segments. Heck, some brands have ditched passenger cars altogether to focus on utilities, while others have expanded their lineups to include a full array of options in ever size imaginable. For Jeep, it’s always been about SUVs (and pickups), so we’ve always found it somewhat strange that the subcompact Jeep Avenger is reserved for our European counterparts. Now, they’re getting an even cooler variant of the tiny model – the new Jeep Avenger 4xe.
The Jeep Avenger 4xe adds another option for consumers in that region (and select other markets), joining the existing all-electric model and a standard hybrid. However, it serves as an enticing middle ground in that regard for a few reasons, chiefly among them, the fact that it’s equipped with all-wheel-drive, as all Jeeps should be, while the standard hybrid is FWD-only.
That system is capable of disconnecting the front axle when it isn’t needed, and at speeds under 19 mph, it splits torque 50:50 between the front and rear. Once the Avenger 4xe gets up to 19 mph, it becomes a FWD model up to 56 mph, but still sends power to the rear axle when needed, and at higher speeds, it’s FWD only. When the 4xe system is activated, torque is split based on road conditions, making for one nifty and clever little system.
Powering that AWD system is a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder gas engine that generates 134 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque on its own, but it’s also paired with two electric motors – one on each axle – that produce 28 horsepower each. Mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, this combination is good for a 0-60 time of 9.5 seconds, while the Jeep Avenger 4xe tops out at 120 mph – modest numbers for sure, but adequate, at least.
In terms of styling, the Jeep Avenger 4xe is pretty easy to differentiate from the standard hybrid thanks to unique features like a scratch-resistant front fascia, new fog lamps, protection for the radar and lower grille areas, standard roof rails, a revamped rear bumper, a matte hood sticker option, black-painted wheels, and Luminous Green accents.
In terms of off-road capability, the Avenger 4xe gets a 0.4-inch lift that gives it 8.26 inches of ground clearance, 15.7 inches of water fording capability, as well as 22-degree approach, 21-degree breakover, and 35-degree departure angles. One can even spec a set of 3PMSF all-terrain tires for maximum performance, too. Order banks for the rugged little electrified off-roader are slated to open up by Q4, but unfortunately, those of us in the states will simply have to admire it from across the pond.
Photos: Jeep
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