Jeep has finally added a rugged offroad-focused variant of its smallest SUV, the Avenger. The Jeep Avenger 4xe sits at the top of the small SUV’s range and gets an all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain. The Avenger is also sold with a petrol and EV variant.

1. Avenger 4xe pairs 136hp petrol engine with two 29hp electric motors
2. 22.7:1 reducer is said to deliver up to 1,900Nm of wheel torque
3. Features minor design changes over the standard model

Jeep Avenger 4xe powertrain highlights

The Avenger 4xe combines a 136hp, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine with a pair of 29hp electric motors (one on each axle) and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. The 48V hybrid system is designed to offer significant traction and torque to boost the SUV’s off-road performance. The all-wheel-drive system helps the 4xe post a 0-100kph time of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 194kph.

The powertrain uses a smart all-wheel-drive system, which sends power to all wheels at speeds below 30kph; to the rear axle as and when required between 30kph and 90kph; and two-wheel-drive at higher speeds to minimise fuel consumption.

There is on-demand torque distribution in all-wheel-drive mode, with a 50:50 front to rear split. Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system features Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud, and Sport modes, which alter the power distribution and stability control.

The powertrain features a 22.7:1 reducer on the rear axle that is said to help deliver up to 1,900Nm of wheel torque. Jeep claims that this gives the Avenger 4xe the ability to traverse gravel slopes with a 40 percent gradient, and even go up a 20 percent gradient slope when there’s no grip at the front.

At 210mm, the machine also sits 10mm higher than the regular Avenger, allowing it to ford water as deep as 400mm. Another bespoke addition is the multi-link rear suspension, which allows for greater articulation on the rear axle. Additionally, the Avenger 4xe offers 22-degree approach, 21-degree breakover and 35-degree departure angles.

Jeep Avenger 4xe design differences

The Avenger 4xe features a number of design tweaks from the regular version. The fog lights have been shifted slightly higher on the car for better visibility, and it also gets roof rails and a rear tow hook. The front and rear bumpers are now made from mould-in-colour material and feature an anti-scratch finish. The front bumper shows more of the wheels and includes extra cladding.

There is a new, optional bonnet sticker designed to reduce reflections when driving in sunny weather. Mud and snow tyres are offered as standard, with optional All Terrain 3PMSF tyres also available; both are mounted on black alloys.

Inside, the 4xe gains new seats made from an entirely washable material, along with greater use of more durable materials to extend the cabin life.

The Avenger 4xe will go on sale in the UK later this year, so pricing details are yet to be revealed.

Jeep Avenger 4xe: will it come to India?

Jeep had evaluated the Avenger as a sub-Compass SUV for our market a few years ago, but there has been no update since then. The American off-road brand recently launched the facelifted Wrangler in India, along with a 2WD automatic Compass. Later this year, the refreshed Jeep Meridian will be introduced with a minor styling update and more features.