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Face-off: jeep cherokee vs renegade – battle of the bestsellers

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • The Cherokee features a sophisticated four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case, providing enhanced traction and stability in challenging terrain.
  • It comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a variety of comfort and convenience features.
  • The Cherokee offers more space, a wider range of engine options, and a more advanced four-wheel drive system.

In the realm of compact SUVs, the Jeep Cherokee and Renegade stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles bear the iconic Jeep badge, promising ruggedness and off-road prowess. However, beneath their shared heritage, they possess distinct characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Jeep Cherokee and Renegade, providing you with the insights necessary to make an informed decision.

Size and Dimensions

The Jeep Cherokee is the larger of the two SUVs, boasting a length of 182.1 inches, a width of 73.6 inches, and a height of 67.3 inches. Its wheelbase measures 107.9 inches, providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo. In contrast, the Renegade is more compact, with a length of 169.1 inches, a width of 69.9 inches, and a height of 65.8 inches. Its wheelbase is 101.2 inches, offering a more nimble and maneuverable driving experience.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Jeep Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2-liter V6 engine generating 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. The Renegade, on the other hand, comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque is available.

Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Jeep Cherokee and Renegade are renowned for their exceptional off-road capabilities. The Cherokee features a sophisticated four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case, providing enhanced traction and stability in challenging terrain. It also comes equipped with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system, which allows drivers to optimize the vehicle’s performance for various off-road conditions. The Renegade, while not as rugged as the Cherokee, still offers impressive off-road capabilities. Its Trailhawk trim is specifically designed for off-road adventures, featuring an upgraded four-wheel drive system with a low-range gear, hill descent control, and skid plates for underbody protection.

Interior Features and Technology

Inside, the Jeep Cherokee boasts a spacious and well-equipped cabin. It comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a variety of comfort and convenience features. Higher trim levels offer advanced features such as an 8.4-inch touchscreen, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. The Renegade’s interior is more compact but still offers a comfortable and functional space. It comes standard with a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which can be upgraded to a larger 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen in higher trim levels.

Safety Features

Both the Jeep Cherokee and Renegade prioritize safety, offering an array of advanced safety features. Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Cherokee offers additional features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The Renegade, on the other hand, comes standard with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

Price and Value

The Jeep Cherokee has a starting price of $27,995, while the Renegade starts at $23,695. The Cherokee offers more space, a wider range of engine options, and a more advanced four-wheel drive system. However, the Renegade is more compact, more affordable, and offers a more nimble driving experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two vehicles depends on your individual needs and budget.

Which SUV is Right for You?

Deciding between the Jeep Cherokee and Renegade depends on your priorities and lifestyle. If you require a spacious and powerful SUV with advanced off-road capabilities, the Cherokee is the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more compact and affordable SUV with impressive off-road capabilities, the Renegade is a great option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Jeep Cherokee offers more cargo space than the Renegade.

Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Jeep Renegade has a slightly better fuel economy than the Cherokee.

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Jeep Cherokee offers a wider range of engine options, including more powerful options than the Renegade.

Q: Which SUV is better off-road?
A: The Jeep Cherokee has more advanced off-road capabilities than the Renegade, especially in the Trailhawk trim.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Jeep Renegade has a lower starting price than the Cherokee.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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