JEEP AVENGER HATCHBACK 1.2 E-AWD e-Hybrid Overland 5dr DCT

The Avenger e-Hybrid could be all the Avenger you really need. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

Jeep's Avenger arguably makes more sense in this combustion/electric e-Hybrid form. It could make more sense than the equivalent Renegade model too.

Background

For those in search of a compact Jeep model, the brand offers two very different self-charging Hybrid drivetrains. We weren't very convinced by the one in the Renegade, but the completely different powertrain in this only slightly smaller Avenger e-Hybrid makes more sense. It's the same 1.2-litre e-DCT6 auto set-up we're now seeing in a growing number of Stellantis Group models - Peugeot's rival 2008 Hybrid 136 is just one example. Jeep didn't originally intend to offer this petrol/electric unit in the UK (the Avenger was initially supposed to be EV-only for our market). But the stagnating EV segment made the brand think again and it now expects this e-Hybrid variant to account for a significant proportion of Avenger sales. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experience

Unlike Hybrid versions of Peugeot's 2008 and Vauxhall's Grandland, this Avenger e-Hybrid gets the Stellantis Group's e-DCT6 Hybrid engine not in 136hp form but in lesser 100hp guise. That's quite a bit less than the 154hp you'd get from the Avenger EV. Still, 62mph from rest is dispatched in 10.9s, coupled with virtually instantaneous torque delivery from the electric motor. This configuration optimises the performance of the combustion engine, particularly during restarts, mitigating the 'turbo lag' effect and ensuring a quick response when the accelerator pedal is pressed. In pure electric mode at start-up, the combustion engine is only engaged when additional power is needed. The key to this powertrain's performance lies in the synergy between the 1.2-litre three cylinder combustion engine, the 48-volt lithium-ion battery and the innovative 6-speed dual-clutch electric gearbox. This gearbox houses a 28hp electric motor, an inverter and the central transmission unit, which work together to optimise compactness and efficiency. The additional electric power enhances low-end torque and ensures a quiet and responsive start for the driver, with seamless and rapid transitions. Pure electric power is also useful for the e-creeping function, allowing a series of short forward movements without accelerator input, beneficial in situations like traffic jams (Jeep calls this 'e-queueing'). The vehicle can also be parked in 100% electric mode (in Jeep-speak 'e-parking'). This technology enables energy recovery during deceleration and through regenerative braking, eliminating the need for plug-in charging.

Design and Build

Apart from the badge work, there are no obvious giveaways that this is a Hybrid-powered version of this Jeep. For some time now, there's been very little indeed that's American about mainstream Jeep models and the Avenger follows that trend. It's the first Jeep to be designed outside the US and won't be sold there, built in Poland and aimed almost entirely at the European market. Despite that, classic brand design cues are everywhere to convince you otherwise; the trapezoidal wheel arches and the shoulder line reference the Willys Jeep of 1941, the 'floating' C-pillar is from the Compass and Grand Cherokee and of course there's the company's usual classic 7-slot front grille (though it's actually closed off, cooling air directed instead beneath the front bumper). At only just over 4-metres in length (16cm shorter than a Renegade), this is the shortest Jeep ever, but there's plenty of pavement presence thanks to at least 200mm of ground clearance, short overhangs and large wheels of up to 18-inches in size. Inside the cabin, drivers have the choice of a 7-inch e-Hybrid cluster featuring MHEV information such as drive mode, engine status feedback and power metre readings. Or they can opt for the 10.25-inch e-Hybrid cluster. Additionally, the vehicle comes equipped with steering wheel gear paddles for the cutting-edge 6-speed DCT transmission. The lower side of the dash features a wide open storage shell which contributes generously to the 34-litre stowage space total in the cabin - over double the segment average. The centre tunnel can be moved to fit the sizes of various items - or even removed entirely to accommodate larger objects like a handbag. Rear seat legroom is on the tight side as usual in a small B-segment SUV. Out back, the 380-litre boot is reasonably large by class standards and has a low 720mm loading height, a one-metre rear hatch width and the option of hands-free powered tailgate.

Market and Model

There are three trim levels in the Avenger e-Hybrid range - 'Longitude', 'Altitude' and 'Summit'. Expect entry-level 'Longitude'-spec Avenger e-Hybrids to cost from around £26,000. You'll pay around £27,500 for 'Altitude;-spec and around £29,000 for the top 'Summit' model. For reference, the electric variant starts from around £35,000. There's a non-electrified petrol-powered Avenger model available from just over £24,000. Whatever your Avenger of choice, there are two connected services packs available; the 'Connect ONE pack', providing assistance and security in case of need; and the 'Connect PLUS pack', offering a wide range of connected services focused primarily on navigation. Owners can take full advantage of the 'over the air' map updates, stay informed about the weather, the danger zones on their route, plus the location of service stations (and fuel prices) and the parking spaces available in town. They can also stay focused by using voice recognition commands to ask questions or give instructions. Across the Avenger range, there's a choice of seven paint colours and available alloy wheels range in size between 16 and 18-inches. Around 100 accessories are available, including graphics for the roof and flanks. This should mean that it'll be easily possible to ensure that your Avenger looks like no other.

Cost of Ownership

This e-Hybrid manages up to 57.6mpg on the combined cycle and up to 111g/km of CO2 in base 'Longitude' form. Insurance groups range between 22 and 24. This Avenger e-Hybrid's petrol engine has been optimised for efficiency and operates in the Miller combustion cycle. This thermodynamic cycle is enabled by the variable geometry turbocharger, which enhances performance at low rpm, and variable valve timing. A belt-driven starter combines with the e-motor to start the petrol engine from cold. The belt-starter also restarts the engine quickly and seamlessly while driving. Away from powertrain technology, Jeep has also given some thought about how to reduce damage caused by low speed impacts, which make up around 70% of accident cases in Europe. With that in mind, the Avenger's headlamps are encased and positioned high up away from low speed impacts. And the skid plates are made of a polymer mould which doesn't show visible scratches. In exposed areas like the doors, cladding is set high to offer extra protection. Thanks to these additions, the brand estimates the customer could reduce potential accident damage costs by up to around £1,000. Like other Jeep models, this one comes with a dedicated Jeep Customer Care service where a team of expertly trained agents will be available 24/7 to answer any questions about your journey.

Summary

We can't help thinking that right here, right now, if you want to Jeep Avenger, this e-Hybrid version is one that might well suit you best. There are none of the range restrictions of the EV variant and for half the time in town, you'll still mostly be running on battery power. Of course the same kind of Hybrid confection is also available in other Stellantis Group models like Peugeot's 2008 and Vauxhall's Grandland. The Avenger though, provides it with a bit of extra go-anywhere pizzazz. It won't go anywhere of course, but it does a better job of visually persuading you that it might. And in this case, that might be all that matters.

Body Glass

Rain sensor

Rear wiper

Privacy glass

Heated windshield in wipers rest area

All power windows express Up/Down

Brakes

ESC - Electronic Stability Control + traction control

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

Electric parking brake with auto hold function

Hill descent control

Vulnerable road user recognition - Pedestrian/Cyclist incl. AEB

Carpets/Rugs

Front and rear velour floor mats

Compartments mopar rubber mats

Communication

Telematic box and connected services

Apple Carplay/Android Auto with wireless mirroring

eCall emergency call system

BSRF connectivity box

Wireless charging

Driver Aids

Warranty Booklet - UK

360 degree parking sensors

Driver attention assist

4 Drive modes (auto, sand/mud, snow and sport)

Quick Guide English

Front, rear and side parking sensors

Urban blind spot monitor

(AEB) Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist recognition

All-Terrain Mode Selector

Power assisted steering

Lane keep assist

180 Degree rear camera with drone view

Adaptive cruise control with Stop and Go

L2 Assisted driving

Traffic sign recognition

Driver Convenience

Keyless Start/Engine On Button

Lane Centering

Driver Information

10.25" Full TFT reconfigurable colour cluster

Odometer

Drowsy driver detection system

Connectivity services

Traffic jam assist

Driving Mirrors

Foldable/Heated/Power door mirrors with Auto folding function and puddle light

Frameless auto dimming interior rear view mirror

Black mirror caps

Embellishment Trims

Painted silver dashboard

Engine

High efficiency alternator

Battery default

Idle coasting

Entertainment

Audio system with 6 speakers

Rear USB port with type-C charging

Exterior Body Features

Rear bumper

Body Colour Exterior Door Handles

Silver skid plates

High roof rails black

Rear side wing doors

Exterior Lights

LED projector headlamps

Day time running light

Welcome/leaving lighting

LED Fog lamps with cornering function

Automatic high/low beam

LED rear lights

3rd brake light

Automatic headlights

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Automatic A/C (1 Zone)

Interior Features

Synthetic leather steering wheel and gear knob

Tunnel pad cover and interior rubber mats TNF

Mopar pad cover

I am Jeep label

Predisposal for tunnel pad cover

Front seat backrest pocket

Central console dividers x2

Cargo Flex Kit - Flat floor on trunk area, height adjustable cargo floor, double face carpet/scratch resistant and washable

Paddle shifter

Front passenger grab handle

Front central armrest with storage

Interior Lights

Interior multi colour ambient light

Packs

Off road exterior pack - Avenger

Safety

Rear seat ISOFIX

Three 3 point rear seatbelts

Child locks on rear doors

Seats

Heated front seats

Foldable second row seats 40/60 - Fix and Fold

3 rear headrests

Front head restraints

Front passenger isofix child seat attachment

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Single front passenger seat

Security

Volumetric anti theft alarm

Towing

Wiring preperation for towing group by Mopar

Vanity Mirrors

Driver and front passenger sunvisor with vanity mirror

Vehicle Charging

L2-AGM 12V battery

Wheels - Alloy

17'' Alloy wheels matt black all season chainable with M+S tyres

Wheels - Spare

Fix and go tyre repair kit

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 124

Engine and Drive Train

Gears: 6 SPEED

Transmission: AUTO

Catalytic Convertor: No

CC: 1199

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Camshaft: DOHC

Number of Valves: 12

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Cylinders: 3

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 51.65

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 5.5

General

Coin Series: Overland

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 27E

Based On ID: N

Special Order: 0

Special Edition: 0

Service Interval Mileage: 16000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Timing Belt Interval Mileage: N

Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: N

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 79

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Badge Engine CC: 1.2

Coin Description: E-AWD e-Hybrid

Generation Mark: 1

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 70

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 59

NCAP Safety Assist %: 53

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 3

Badge Power: 136

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 9.5

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 170

Top Speed: 121

Engine Power - BHP: 136

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 100

Engine Torque - NM: 230

Engine Torque - MKG: 23.5

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Rear: 215/60 R17

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Space Saver?: 0

Wheel Type: 17" ALLOY

Tyre Size Front: 215/60 R17

Wheel Style: N

Alloys?: No

Weight and Capacities

No. of Seats: 5

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 10.5

Exterior Body Features

Metallic paint

Open glass sunroof with manual velum

Bicolour solid paint

Bicolour metallic paint

Special solid paint

Interior Lights

Front and rear dome LED lamp

Packs

Leather pack - Avenger

Infotainment and convenience package - Avenger 4xe

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Sun

Metallic - Granite

Metallic - Stone

Paint - Solid

Solid - Ruby

Paint - Special

Special solid - Snow white

Bicolour metallic - Granite grey with Volcano roof

Bicolour metallic - Stone grey with volcano roof

Bicolour metallic - Sun yellow with Volcano roof

Special solid - Volcano black

Bicolour solid - Ruby red with volcano roof

Bicolour solid - Snow white with volcano roof

Special solid - Storm grey

Bicolour solid - Storm grey with volcano roof

Trim - Cloth

Cloth - Black and Grey

Trim - Leather

Leather pack - Avenger - Black