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 Ford EcoSport looks to be a worthwhile offering in the subcompact segment.Although the Ford EcoSport is just now arriving in the United States, the automaker was actually one of the first to get in on the pint-size crossover game.
Pros Cheeky style Clean-looking interior Choice of powertrains Tailgate door could be useful
Cons No AWD with 3-cylinder Has been on sale globally for a long time Tailgate may also be inconvenien
The EcoSport truly embraces the tiny ethos. It’s 16.8 inches shorter in length than an Escape and rides on a 6.7-inch-shorter wheelbase. Even within its competitive set—which includes the Jeep Renegade, the Honda HR-V, and the Chevrolet Trax, among others—the EcoSport is the runt of the litter. The Ford’s wheelbase is the shortest of the group, and most of its competitors are at least a half-foot longer overall.
Pros User-friendly tech, park it anywhere, all-wheel drive is available.
Cons Tight back seat, modest power, drinks gas like a bigger SUV.
Pros Cute-ute styling fits with Ford showroom Very nice interior materials Lots of headroom Large cargo area with seats folded Sync3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto available Sync3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto available
Cons Side-hinged rear swing gate not good for urban parking Unknown horsepower figures Lesser trim models won’t have 8-inch screen Cargo room is tight with seats up Unknown fuel economy ratings
