It takes commitment to make a relationship work. In order for the journey to be (almost) trouble-free and smooth-sailing, you have to be tougher than what lies before you; that you are willing to push back against what’s working against you. This is the kind of commitment required of owning a Jeep Renegade, the brand’s crossover model that is pitted against the likes of the Subaru XV, Mazda CX-3, and Honda HR-V. It looks to be straightforward and simple enough to understand. But just when you think you’ve got the Renegade all figured out, that nonchalant face gives way to characteristics that requires a bit more digging and a little more effort.

On the outside, the Renegade is an irony. With its structured, almost muscular shape, it’s obviously designed to be tough. It has the heavy build that reminds you of Jeep’s tough-as-nails heritage, softened perhaps only by its rounded-out edges. And yet, it also comes across as an adorable package as well. Looking at it head-on, the positioning of the headlights together with the bright yellow (or red) paintwork makes it look like a bumblebee—the insect, not the Transformer. This tough but cutesy design means it works for both genders: tough enough for a man, but refined enough for a woman.



Setting aside the muscle work, the interior of the Renegade can be classified as young and rugged, designed for perhaps, the young at heart. Two surprising elements, though, are actually having to use a traditional key to start the engine. Considering that most 2018 vehicles are  already into the push-button bit, it made me stop for a bit to consider why Jeep decided to keep it old-school for a 2018 model. Nostalgia, maybe?




While the aesthetics of the Renegade will appeal to most of the younger set, getting behind the wheel of it is another story. Similar to the now defunct all-wheel drive Limited model, this one runs on a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine—not the most impressive lot, but okay for standard city driving. Curiously, though, Jeep dropped the power for this Renegade variant down to just 135 horsepower, and with an output of only 230 Nm. In addition, its transmission turned out to be a 6-speed dual-clutch system.




All in all, the Jeep Renegade boasts of vintage glamour; a design that espouses cool ruggedness. Climb inside and it’s exactly as the exterior advertises. However, this isn’t a get-in-and-drive-off type of SUV. This one needs some work. To own a Renegade is like being in a relationship—you have to commit to it along with all the little quirks that are behind that glamorous shell. It’s either you can take, or you drop it.

Words and Photos by Gen Tiu.