The Jeep Avenger 4xe, a new AWD hybrid version of the existing electric and “e-Hybrid” front drive cars, has been unveiled in Europe. To quote the press release saying the same thing: “Celebrating its rich heritage of exploration and groundbreaking design, the iconic Jeep®brand introduces the remarkable Jeep Avenger 4xe.”
The Jeep Avenger received over 90,000 orders so far, roughly 30% of which were for the electric version. The Avenger is smaller than the Compass or Renegade.
The 4xe system, as used in Europe, taps a 1.2 liter turbocharged engine coupled with a 48V hybrid system including twin 21 kW electric motors, one at each axle. The transmission is a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. It can drive in full electric mode at low speeds. 0-62 mph takes 9.5 seconds. The system provides all wheel drive and more power than the front wheel drive hybrid Avenger, with minimal loss of fuel economy. Power is rated at 136 hp, presumably for gasoline and electricity combined. The press release does not state whether this is a plugin hybrid; all other 4xe models are plug-ins, but in this case “4xe” probably only refers to the all wheel drive system.
4xe enhancements include better off-road angles, a 10 mm increase in ground clearance, and the ability to cross up to 400 mm (15.75 inches) of water. The press release relentlessly gushed, as though using Google Translate to convert AI blather from Italian to English, “the Jeep Avenger 4xe epitomizes a harmonious fusion of power, agility, and efficiency, catapulting the Brand into a new era of automotive excellence and enjoyment. As the epitome of Jeep’s core value of freedom, the Avenger 4xe marks the culmination of the Jeep brand’s unwavering commitment to providing customers with the freedom of choice.”
Rear wheel torque is an impressive 1,900 Nm (1401 lb-ft), according to Jeep. The Avenger can handle slopes of nearly 40% on challenging terrains such as gravel—up to 20% when there’s no grip on the front axle.
The Jeep Avenger 4xe’s smart all-wheel-drive system engages all four wheels at speeds below 30 km/h (19 mph), with a 50:50 split. From 30 to 90 km/h (19 mph to 56 mph), the rear axle drive activates on demand; the rear electric motor remains connected to the rear wheels for sudden needs, though. Torque distribution at this range is based on demand, with a potential split of up to 50:50. At speeds above 90 km/h (56 mph), forward drive becomes permanent, and the rear e-motor disengages from the axle to reduce fuel use.
Selec-Terrain has modes for automatic, snow, sand-and-mud, and sport, which increases the rear wheel bias.
The Avenger 4xe is the only Avenger with a multilink rear suspension, pioneered by Jeep, to increase rear axle articulation. It also has a rear tow-hook, standard roof bars, and seats made from a more-durable material that is completely waterproof.
The Jeep Avenger 4xe was restyled somewhat with new fog lights positioned slightly higher and outward to increase nighttime visibility.
Front and rear bumpers are made in mold-in-color material with anti-scratch finishing and at the front, the new bumper exposes the wheel and uses more prominent cladding to protecting the license plate. The front lower grill and the radar are protected by robust bumpers. An optional hood decal has a matte finish to prevent sun reflections.
Off-road angles are 22° approach, 21° breakover, and 35° departure; ground clearance is 210mm. By comparison, the 2022 Jeep Compass Trailhawk had an approach angle of 30°, breakover of 24°, and departure of 34°.
Orders for the Jeep Avenger 4xe are slated to open by Q4 of 2024.
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David Zatz started what was to become the world’s biggest, most comprehensive Mopar site in 1994 as he pursued a career in organizational research and change. After a chemo-induced break, during which he wrote car books covering Vipers, minivans, and Jeeps, he returned with Patrick Rall to create StellPower.com for daily news, and to set up MoTales for mo’ tales.
David Zatz has around 30 years of experience in covering Chrysler/Mopar news and history, and most recently wrote Century of Chrysler, a 100-year retrospective on the Chrysler marque.
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