JEEP AVENGER HATCHBACK 1.2 E-AWD e-Hybrid Upland 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

All power windows express Up/Down

Brakes

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

Electric parking brake

ESC - Electronic Stability Control + traction control

Hill descent control

Communication

Apple Carplay/Android Auto with wireless mirroring

BSRF connectivity box

eCall emergency call system

Telematic box and connected services

Driver Aids

Adaptive cruise control

All-Terrain Mode Selector

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

(AEB) Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist recognition

180 Degree rear camera with drone view

Driver attention assist

Lane keep assist

Warranty Booklet - UK

Quick Guide English

Traffic sign recognition

Power assisted steering

Driver Convenience

Keyless Start/Engine On Button

Driver Information

Connectivity services

Odometer

10.25" Full TFT reconfigurable colour cluster

Drowsy driver detection system

Driving Mirrors

Auto dimming interior rear view mirror

Black mirror caps

Heated and electrically folding outside mirrors

Heated electric door mirrors

Embellishment Trims

Painted silver dashboard

Engine

Battery default

High efficiency alternator

Idle coasting

Entertainment

Audio system with 6 speakers

Rear USB port with type-C charging

Exterior Body Features

Rear bumper

High roof rails black

Body Colour Exterior Door Handles

Rear side wing doors

Silver skid plates

Exterior Lights

LED Fog lamps with cornering function

Automatic headlights

LED reflector headlamps

3rd brake light

Day time running light

Halogen rear lights

Automatic high/low beam

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Automatic A/C (1 Zone)

Interior Features

Central console dividers x2

Front seat backrest pocket

I am Jeep label

Dedicated durable and washable fabric seats

Height adjustable cargo floor

Paddle shifter

Front central armrest with storage

Synthetic leather steering wheel

Front passenger grab handle

Packs

Off road exterior pack - Avenger

Safety

Rear seat ISOFIX

Three 3 point rear seatbelts

Child locks on rear doors

Seats

Single front passenger seat

Foldable second row seats 40/60 - Fix and Fold

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Front passenger isofix child seat attachment

Front head restraints

3 rear headrests

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

Catalytic Convertor: No

Gears: 6 SPEED

Transmission: AUTO

Cylinders: 3

CC: 1199

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 12

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Fuel Consumption - ICE

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 51.4

EC Urban (mpg): 5.5

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

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

General

Timing Belt Interval Mileage: N

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

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 27E

Service Interval Mileage: 16000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: N

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 79

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 70

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 59

NCAP Safety Assist %: 53

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 3

Badge Power: 136

Badge Engine CC: 1.2

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 1

Coin Series: Upland

Coin Description: E-AWD e-Hybrid

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Performance

Top Speed: 121

0 to 62 mph (secs): 9.5

Engine Power - BHP: 136

Engine Torque - MKG: 23.5

Engine Torque - NM: 230

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 170

Engine Power - KW: 100

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Tyre Size Front: 215/60 R17

Space Saver?: 0

Alloys?: No

Wheel Type: 17" ALLOY

Wheel Style: N

Tyre Size Rear: 215/60 R17

Vehicle Dimensions

Width (including mirrors): 1981

Height: 1541

Width: 1776

Length: 4088

Wheelbase: 2563

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1475

Gross Vehicle Weight: 1976

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 920

Max. Loading Weight: 501

No. of Seats: 5

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 10.5

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1218

Exterior Body Features

Metallic paint

Special solid paint

Bicolour metallic paint

Bicolour solid paint

Open glass sunroof with manual velum

Interior Features

Predisposal for tunnel pad cover

Packs

Leather and winter package - Avenger

Infotainment and convenience package - Avenger 4xe

Winter pack with heated front seats- Avenger

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Sun

Metallic - Stone

Metallic - Granite

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 and winter package - Black with grey stitching