The Jeep Renegade was the company’s attempt to jump on the SUV bandwagon, admittedly much later than others. And typically, Jeep did things its own way by creating a vehicle that had a much sharper focus on off-road ability than on-road luxury – as has been the case with most of the brand’s cars.
It must have got something right, because you can still buy a new example from Jeep dealers today.
So, does this emphasis on rugged, mountain-climbing ability ahead of everyday comfort make it a good choice for those looking at used tow cars? Well, yes… and no.
What’s a used Jeep Renegade like inside?
When it comes to interior space, the Jeep Renegade (2015-present) is very much a mixed bag.
Those up front get the better end of the deal, with a fair amount of headroom and legroom, always a good trait when you’re looking for the best caravan tow car for your needs. The front seats are wide and comfortable, too, although they could do with offering more support when going around corners.
The Renegade is a tougher sell if you regularly carry people in the rear seats, because they’ll end up with their knees against the backs of the front seats, unless those ahead give up some space.
The 351-litre boot area is just about adequate if you’re comparing the Renegade with smaller SUVs, but less so if you’re also looking at bigger cars such as the Nissan Qashqai or Skoda Yeti.
All models have decent kit, with a 5.0-inch touchscreen and air-conditioning as standard on entry-level cars, although these do not have parking sensors. Moving up the range adds niceties such as heated door mirrors, cruise control and rear sensors, while Limited versions get dual-zone climate control, a larger infotainment set-up (made even bigger in the 2018 facelift) and leather trim.
How does a used Jeep Renegade drive?
There have been numerous engine options available in the Jeep Renegade, starting with a 138bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine, and running up through a 118bhp 1.0-litre mild hybrid, and a 178bhp 1.3 petrol. There’s also been a 237bhp plug-in hybrid with around 30 miles of electric-only range.
However, the sweet spot for tow car owners is the 138bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel and nine-speed automatic gearbox, because this provides an ideal blend of low-rev pulling power and smooth changes. It can be a bit noisy, too, so you’ll need to crank up the audio system when it’s working hard.
When new, this version was criticised for being too expensive, but it’s a bargain if you’re looking at buying a used tow car.
However, the Renegade’s steering can feel light, the brakes a bit wooden and the low-speed ride is firm.
That said, it tows well, coping with lane changes and hill starts, and pulling the tourer confidently across slippery areas. Traction should never be an issue, but if the conditions force it, you can switch into a low-ratio transmission for extra mud-plugging prowess.
Beware, though – the Renegade has a noseweight limit of only 60kg, so you’ll need to make sure you’re packing your caravan very carefully.
What price to pay for a used Jeep Renegade
- High: Price: £59,868; Model: 2.8 D-4D Invincible X; Year: 2023; Miles: 9700
- Sweet spot: Price: £18,908; Model: 2.4 D-4D Invincible; Year: 2018; Miles: 75,000
- Low: Price: £10,787; Model: 2.4 D-4D Active 4WD; Year: 2016; Miles: 96,000
What will it tow?
- Kerb weight: 1548kg
- Towing limit: 1500kg
- Noseweight limit: 60kg
- 85% match: 1316kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 14
- Annual VED: £195*
- Average economy: 48.7mpg
- Full service: £176
*If registered after 1 April 2017, £265 if registered before. (Servicing price supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262)
Trouble spots
A small number of early Jeep Renegade models were recalled because the side window airbags could fail to deploy in a crash. Then 2340 examples were returned to dealers for an occupant restraint controller software update. A small number of cars were recalled for an incorrectly machined engine mount and an incorrect certificate of conformity prompted a recall in 2021. Check recall lists at www.check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk
Verdict
The Jeep Renegade is a mixed bag, with strong towing ability, good equipment and reasonable running costs, but you’ll need to make sure you can live with the cramped cabin and low noseweight limit.
Alternatives to consider
Used Cupra Formentor (2020-present)
The first standalone model from Cupra makes a great choice for those after a pre-owned tow car, offering a good level of kit and plenty of practicality. We’d just advise watching out for wheelspin in wet weather.
Used Audi Q3 (2018-2025)
The Q3 is a classy SUV that looks good and is a reasonable car to drive, towing with stability. All we’d say is the build quality could be better.
Skoda Yeti (2009-2017)
The Yeti was an unusual thing when it came out. We’re not referring to the oddball looks, but the fact it was an SUV that was fun to drive. Not rapid though – you’ll need to plan ahead to overtake. It was superb when towing, proving stable even in emergency manoeuvres, despite its comparatively light weight. It was also roomy and had a flexible seating system.
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