Jeep Introduces The Avenger 4xe: Europe’s First AWD Compact SUV With Mild-Hybrid Power
by AutoExpert | 23 May, 2024
The top 4xe trim level is the latest addition to Jeep's Avenger range. This is the first and so far the only Jeep compact SUV available in Europe with all-wheel drive capability, achieved using a mild-hybrid system using two electric motors.
There are no plug-in hybrid versions of the Avenger 4xe in Jeep's worldwide portfolio. Instead, it incorporates a mild-hybrid 48-Volt system and two electric motors, each providing 28 horsepower, with a classic Stellantis-sourced turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 134 hp.
All four wheels receive power thanks to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a smart all-wheel-drive system that maintains a constant 50:50 split at low speeds. At speeds over 19 mph, the rear electric motor enters sleep mode for improved economy. It fully disengages when the vehicle reaches speeds above 56 mph.
Auto, Snow, Sand & Mud, and Sport are the four Selec Terrain settings available to the driver. This last feature allows the Avenger 4xe to outpace the FWD e-Hybrid by 6 mph as it accelerates from 0-62 mph in 9.5 seconds and reaches a peak speed of 121 mph. Jeep also made improvements to the chassis so it could handle off-road better.
Particularly, in comparison to the front-wheel-drive models, the 4xe Jeep Avenger sits 10 mm (0.4 inches) higher and has a multilink rear suspension. The black alloy wheels come with M+S tires as standard, but you can also have them wrapped in the All-Terrain 3PMSF rubber if you like. In addition to better traction and 8.3 in of ground clearance, the 4xe has a reworked front bumper with more protective cladding and higher-mounted fog lights, standard roof rails to hold more gear, bumpers with anti-scratch finishing, a matte hood sticker as an optional extra, and a rear tow hook for tough terrain.
In keeping with the 4xe trim's rough and outdoorsy nature, Jeep has opted for fully washable and twice-as-durable materials for the upholstery inside. By the end of the year 2024, European customers will be able to place orders for the Upland and Overland trim levels of the Jeep Avenger 4xe. The 4xe will likely cost more than the FWD-only ICE, mild-hybrid, and totally electric variants, even if Jeep hasn't revealed prices just yet.