New Jeep Avenger 4xe gets all-wheel drive to become segment’s apex mud-plugger

Need a B-segment crossover that can hack it when the going gets rough? Jeep’s upgraded Avenger promises to live up to the brand’s legendary off-road legacy.

When Jeep’s latest Avenger first hit showrooms last year, it seemed to possess all the great traits now synonymous with the brand — a lofty driving position and rugged styling included. However, something rather important had been omitted: true go-anywhere ability. That’s right, both petrol and EV variants made do with front-wheel drive only. Bummer.  

Now, that’s all set to change. The new top-rung 4xe not only ushers in all-wheel drive, but also a more powerful hybridised platform. And, according to Eric Laforge, Head of Jeep Brand Europe, the heavily reworked model is set to be “…the new benchmark in the B-SUV segment, offering exclusive design, top performance, and representing the full expression of Jeep legacy on all-wheel drive.” 

So, how does the 4xe plan to deliver on Laforge’s bold promises? Well, at its core, the new powertrain consists of the familiar 1.2-litre turbo four, pumping out 136 bhp. Only now it’s augmented by twin electric motors (one on each axle) to provide proper all-wheel drive and a handy slug of extra torque for on-road use.

Combined with a new multilink rear suspension which enables greater axle articulation, and optional knobbly Falken all-terrain Wildpeak AT3WA rubber, the 4xe achieves greater off-road angles, boasts 10mm more ground clearance, and can even ford 400mm deep streams. If that wasn’t enough, a new 22.7:1 reducer placed on the rear axle delivers an enormous 1400 lb-ft of wheel torque to help extricate you from the tightest off-road predicaments.  

You’ll continue to notice the benefits of electrification when you swap the wilderness for the urban jungle. Serene, fully electric motoring is possible at town speeds, saving petrol and reducing tailpipe emissions. While an extra 36 bhp helps to whisk the Avenger up to 60 mph in a competitive 9.5 seconds.  

Those who like their off roaders with a rugged style will also enjoy a few choice visual upgrades. Most notably, these include standard roof bars (handy for stowing Kayaks or bicycles), a rear tow hook, special anti-scratch bumpers, and even a mud-proof seat fabric for easy cleaning.

We think the new Avenger 4xe should put to bed any rumours that the model isn’t a true Jeep. With demonstrable off-road ability, zippier on-road performance, and styling upgrades to tie the whole package together, the 4xe is a trailblazer in the B-SUV class.  

 If you agree, you’ll be pleased to hear that order books open in Q4 of 2024. And, while pricing is yet to be confirmed, a starting figure of around £35,000 would stand it in good stead to compete with the likes of Volvo’s all-electric EX30, and VW’s ICE-powered T-Roc 4Motion.  

Is this the compact 4x4 you’ve been waiting for? Let us know if the upcoming 4xe heads your crossover shortlist.

Hero image credit: Stellantis