The 2019 Jeep Renegade’s new engine should help this likable crossover SUV use less fuel.
Pros Looks like it wants to off-road Logical control layout Good optional infotainment Real off-road ability Removable roof panels
Cons Tight squeeze for four adults Base engine is noisy, underpowered Lack of standard active safety tech Spartan Sport trim level
Jeep's smallest SUV, the Renegade, is no less cute for 2019—but now it has more to offer thanks to a comprehensive update that brings refreshed looks, a new turbocharged engine, and several added features. After seeing a preview of the updated model earlier this year, we now have full info on the 2019 Jeep Renegade lineup, which will go on sale in the U.S. by the end of this year.
Pros Solid off-road capability, toy-truck styling, available manual transmission.
Cons Slower than a three-legged turtle, poor fuel efficiency, lacks storage.
Updated exterior styling.Revised interior functionality.Expanded feature availability.The 2019 Jeep Renegade comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed automatic.
PROS Trailhawk model's best-in-class off-road capability Agile handling when on pavement Plenty of easy-to-use technology features Lots of character with a classic Jeep look
CONS Nine-speed transmission is clunky and easily confused Fuel economy is middling for the segment Boxy shape makes for lots of wind noise on the highway Rear-seat legroom is tight for adults
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee comes with four wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.No significant changes for 2020.
Pros Available V6 and turbocharged engines provide smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover
Cons Sluggish acceleration with the base 2.4-liter engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee cashes in on off-road prowess and luxury features but comes up short elsewhere.
Pros High-quality cabin Sliding second-row seat Trailhawk off-road capability Sharp infotainment system Wide range of powertrains
Cons Lack of standard active safety tech Bland styling So-so fuel economy Inconsistent 9-speed transmission Smaller interior than competitors
The Cherokee underwent a significant mechanical and cosmetic update for the 2019 model year, so changes to the 2020 version are minimal. Newly available, though, is an Advanced Safety Group package that includes lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Jeep also is offering two new paint colors for the new year: Sangria and Spitfire Orange.
Pros Legitimate off-road capability, good ride and handling for the class, Jeep badge adds cred.
Cons Poor fuel economy, limited cargo space, not a great value.
