The 2017 Jeep Renegade is the smallest Jeep you can buy, appealing both to commuters and off-roaders, but its design can outshine its performance. The 2017 Jeep Renegade, the smallest crossover you can buy from Fiat Chrysler's fabled off-road brand, continues for its third model year with only minor changes. It's the smallest Jeep sold since the Willys Jeep launched as a post-war civilian vehicle, but it's a modern utility vehicle with features GIs never dreamed of. Trim levels for the little Renegade run from Sport through Latitude and Limited, and include the tougher off-road Trailhawk version as well.
Pros Genuine Jeep Mostly quiet Off-road ability if needed Neat design touches Clever removable roof
Cons Styling borders on cute Cramped rear seat Fuel economy so-so
The 2017 Jeep Renegade ranks 3 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Renegade ranks high on our list of subcompact SUVs for its balanced on- and off-road performance – which is an exceedingly rare combination in any SUV, much less the subcompact SUV class – and its quality interior.
Pros Incredible off-road abilities Upscale cabin Lithe yet comfortable handling
Cons Very few standard features Poor fuel economy compared to rivals
The Jeep Renegade certainly isn't the first carlike Jeep, but it's the first one to prove that Jeep styling and playfulness can translate successfully to a subcompact crossover. It's rewarding to drive yet still practical. The 2017 Jeep Renegade essentially carries over from the previous year. Xenon headlights (delayed availability), automatic high beams, and keyless ignition and entry are new features this year.
Pros Lots of character with a classic Jeep look Agile handling when going around turns Plenty of easy-to-use technology features Best-in-class off-road capability with Trailhawk model
Cons Middling fuel economy Confused and clunky nine-speed automatic transmission Tight rear seat legroom for adults Limited cargo capacity compared to rivals Boxy shape makes for lots of wind noise on the highway.
The 2017 Nissan Rogue could beat the world of compact crossover SUVs, were it not for mediocre performance and safety ratings. The Nissan Rogue covers the middle of the automaker's crossover SUV lineup. Tucked in between the teensy, utterly impractical Juke and the big three-row Pathfinder, the Rogue relies on good seats and interior space to move its metal.
Pros Surround-view cameras are a must-have feature USB and Bluetooth streaming, standard Lots of safety features Good looks
Cons Carryover powertrain Noisy under hard acceleration Still a crossover... ...with a third-row seat?
The 2017 Nissan Rogue ranks 9 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Nissan Rogue is a solid, middle-of the-road vehicle. Nothing about the Rogue elevates it to the top of this fiercely competitive compact SUV class, but nothing about it is so terrible as to banish it to the bottom either.
Pros Classy interior with upscale finishes Large cargo area with innovative storage system Excellent fuel economy
Cons Transmission can be loud under heavy acceleration Engine could use more power Majority of driver assistance features are exclusive to top trim leve
For 2017, the Nissan Rogue gains a new hybrid option, a slight styling refresh and additional sound insulation. Other available enhancements include a hands-free liftgate, adaptive cruise control with forward collision mitigation, remote ignition, a heated steering wheel, driver-seat memory functions and a premium Platinum Reserve interior package.
Pros Best-in-class front seat comfort Ride quality remains comfortable over varying terrain User-friendly tech options Versatile cargo storage
Cons Weak acceleration Poor visibility Transmission is slow to respond Advanced safety features are only available on top trim level
