20/10/2023 It’s cute, runs on electricity and has a cool brand image – so it is a shame the Jeep Avenger won’t sell as well as it could in Ireland.
The European designed (Italy) and built (Poland) Jeep Avenger has picked up a few awards including European Car of the Year 2023 since its recent launch, and it is easy to see why. It is an easy to like EV with a relatively low entry price point of 36 grand. As part of the giant Stellantis Group of motor companies Jeep has access to lots of tech and platforms (in this case the e-CMP2) that the iconic US brand could never have dreamed of, what Jeep lacks in Ireland is a large dealer network (it has eight) to get bums on seats, but the network is expanding.
At just over four metres long and 1.78m wide the Avenger is one of the most compact and cute looking, chunky SUV-inspired designs on sale today, it is almost as cute as a Suzuki Jimmy, almost. The Avenger gets the famous Jeep seven-slot grille of sorts, although it is now in a flush aerodynamic form as a nod to the brands’ tradition. There are bulging wheel arches and on higher grades a black roof. While it is not an off roader it does have good ground clearance (200mm) with departure and approach angles a genuine SUV would find useful. The front wheel drive Avenger gets some electronic trickery that allows additional traction to be found via its’ ‘Selec-Terrain®’ and Hill Descent Control systems.
The cabin seats five at a push, and four adults in reasonable comfort. There is plenty of oddment storage with 34 litres in its central unit – ironically helped by the absence of a tradition 4×4 drive shaft. The boot holds 355 litres. Three trim grades a re available from launch priced from €35,995. Standard equipment is good. The mid-level ‘Altitude’ grade (€39,495) gets more technology and features over the entry Longitude model, including premium seats and a 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a hands-free power tailgate. The top-of-the-range ‘Summit’ (€42,495*) gets the kitchen sink including: full LED headlights and taillights, advanced level 2 autonomous driving capabilities, 360-degree parking sensors as well as a rear camera with an aerial drone view.
Avenger gets a host of safety features and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Blind Spot Monitoring, Autonomous Emergency Braking with protection for pedestrians and cyclists, automatic parking assistance, as well as a rear camera providing a clear view of the surroundings. There’s a app (of course there is) and ‘UConnect’ services can make like that bit more convenient with a load of ‘My…’ features.
Jeep claims a range of up to 400km or even 580km (entry grade) in urban use from a full 54kWh battery. Power is delivered to the front wheels only (ahh) with 156hp and 260nm of torque available from its 400v electric motor. Jeep says its sales will be 100% electric in Europe in 2030. There is an 11kW onboard charger. Faster CCS (Combo) public charging can take the Avenger from 20% to 80% in just 24 minutes at a 100kW charger.
John Saunders, Managing Director of Jeep in Ireland: “The Jeep Avenger boasts an impressive range, allowing you to go the distance without worrying about recharging.” On the road Avenger the Avenger is fun to drive. Depending on th driving more there can be anything from 80hp (Eco mode) to 156hp (Sport mode) on tap. In day to day Normal mode there is 110hp to play with. The Avenger feels solid and has a sophisticated ride. Its dynamic handling won’t inspire you to do any track days, but the car’s fun interior and cute exterior will have you searching for reasons to head out to the great outdoors. It’s one of my favourite EVs to date. Michael Sheridan
