First Drive: Jeep’s Avenger gains four-wheel-drive with new 4xe version
The firm’s smallest model has proved to be very popular, so does a four-wheel-drive model boost its appeal? Cameron Richards reports.
What is it?
Jeep is no stranger to four-wheel-drive vehicles, with the American firm being one of the pioneers when it comes to tough and rugged family cars.
Its smallest model, the Avenger, has proved to be a popular choice among young families, offering hybrid and electric powertrains.
However, to boost its appeal, there is now a four-wheel-drive model to add to the mix – the Avenger 4xe.
What’s new?
The acronym stands for ‘four-wheel-drive with electric’ and is commonly used throughout models in the firm’s range.
The 4xe looks almost identical to the standard Avenger. However, the changes lie beneath, with power being sent to all four wheels. There is also more underbody protection, making it more suited to off-road driving.
It comes standard with a fuel-saving mild-hybrid setup – the same that you’ll find in a Peugeot 2008 and Vauxhall Mokka. But it comes with two additional electric motors located on the front and rear axle to increase its power output.
Also, the car now features multi-link rear suspension to help improve ride comfort, too.
What’s under the bonnet?
Powering the car is a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that boasts 48V mild-hybrid technology.
In terms of performance, the car can go from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds and will reach a top speed of 120mph.
