In a strategic move aimed at broadening its appeal in the UK market, the Jeep Avenger has undergone a significant transformation by introducing combustion-powered variants alongside its existing electric model. This expansion not only diversifies the Avenger lineup but also makes it more accessible to a wider range of consumers. The new entry-level petrol version, priced at a competitive £23,600, positions itself as a cost-effective alternative, undercutting rivals such as the £25,640 Ford Puma and the £23,965 Volkswagen T-Cross.
Powering the petrol variant is a compact 1.2-liter PureTech three-cylinder engine, a stalwart in the Stellantis family, delivering 99 horsepower and 205 Newton-meters of torque. Exclusively mated to a six-speed manual transmission, this powertrain exhibits impressive efficiency, boasting a fuel economy of 50.4 mpg over the combined cycle. With this move, Jeep aims to capture the attention of budget-conscious buyers without compromising on performance.
For those with a slightly larger budget, the Avenger E-Hybrid, priced from £25,300, presents an intriguing option. Integrating a 1.2-liter petrol engine with a 28 horsepower electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission, this variant mirrors the power and torque of its petrol counterpart but achieves enhanced efficiency, rated at 57.1 mpg. The E-Hybrid model also incorporates a regenerative braking system, contributing to its eco-friendly credentials.
While the Avenger E-Hybrid may not boast rapid acceleration, clocking in at 10.9 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint, it compensates with the ability to drive on electric power alone for short distances and at speeds under 29 km/h, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable commuting solutions.
Jeep offers the Avenger Petrol in two guises: the entry-level Longitude and the upgraded Altitude, starting at £23,600 and £25,335, respectively. The Altitude model comes with enhancements such as a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display, 17-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, and automatic climate control, catering to those seeking additional features within a reasonable budget.
The Avenger E-Hybrid, on the other hand, offers three trim levels, starting with the £25,300 Longitude and ascending to the £27,000 Altitude model and the £29,200 Summit model. The Summit model distinguishes itself with premium features, including 18-inch wheels, full LED lights front and rear, a 180-degree reversing camera, 360-degree parking sensors, a wireless charging pad, and level 2 semi-autonomous driving technologies, appealing to consumers seeking a higher level of sophistication and cutting-edge technology.
In essence, Jeep's strategic move to expand the Avenger lineup in the UK not only brings affordability and choice to the forefront but also aligns with the evolving preferences of the market, catering to both budget-conscious and tech-savvy consumers alike.