Jeep Avenger 4xe Is a Rugged Compact Off-Road SUV

The Jeep Avenger finally gets a rugged, off-road-oriented variant called the Avenger 4xe. This all-wheel drive version of the compact SUV gets a hybrid powertrain, a hardcore suspension setup and more rugged looks. 

Compared to the standard Avenger e-Hybrid, the Avenger 4xe gets a slightly different bumper. While the air intakes, grille and headlamps have the same placement, the design of the front bumper around them has changed. Being a hybrid, it gets neon green accents in the lower section of the bumper. Jeep says the fog lamps have been moved slightly higher for better illumination. 

In profile, the Avenger 4xe gets new alloy wheel designs compared to the e-Hybrid model. It also gets blacked-out roof rails to add to its rugged persona. But at the back, not much has changed in the Avenger 4xe. The front and rear bumpers also get an anti-scratch finish. The Avenger 4xe also gets tow hooks as standard. 

Inside, the Avenger 4xe remains the same as the standard Avenger but its seats are made from more durable materials, are waterproof and are coated in a solution which Jeep says is easy to clean stains and mud. Apart from that, it continues with the same 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and more. 

The Avenger 4xe is powered by a 134 bhp, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine coupled with two electric motors producing 28 bhp each. One electric motor is coupled with the rear axle, while the other is with the front. The Avenger 4xe gets a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It has a claimed top speed of 194 kmph and can do the 0-100 kmph run in 9.5 seconds. 

Jeep says the all-wheel drive system in the Avenger is engaged under 30 kmph with a 50:50 split. Between 30 - 90 kmph, the rear electric motor is deactivated but can be activated at a push of a button. Above 90 kmph, the e-motor is completely disengaged to minimise fuel consumption. 

This is the first Avenger variant to get all-wheel drive and it gets multiple drive modes. With the ‘Auto’ mode, all-wheel drive is engaged on demand which Jeep says is ideal for city driving conditions. In the ‘Snow’ mode, all-wheel drive is engaged along with an enhanced stability control system. In the ‘Sand & Mud’ mode, the gear ratios and traction control system are altered for uneven terrains. Lastly, in the ‘Sport’ mode, power and torque delivery are maximised, assisted by the boost from the electric motor on the rear axle. 

The Avenger 4xe gets a new multi-link rear suspension which Jeep says improves the ride quality over a bad patch. The ground clearance of the 4xe variant has also increased by 10 mm and it has a water wading capacity of 400 mm. 

Jeep will begin taking orders for the Avenger 4xe in Europe later this year and its pricing should be announced ahead of that. At the moment, there is no information is Jeep is planning to bring the Avenger to India.