Jeep Avenger 4xe: the most capable B-SUV off road

Jeep has just unveiled the Avenger 4xe, the most extreme version of its B-SUV. With four-wheel drive, it strengthens its position as the B-SUV with the greatest off-road capability.

Earlier this year, the Jeep Avenger range also gained the e-Hybrid, a 48 V mild-hybrid version, which joined the existing fully electric and combustion-only options.

More power

The new Avenger 4xe retains the e-Hybrid’s powertrain - a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine - but delivers greater output and torque: 136 hp and 230 Nm, compared with 100 hp and 205 Nm. It also uses the six-speed, dual-clutch e-DCS6 automatic gearbox.

Its key addition is a pair of 21 kW electric motors, each producing 28.5 hp. The first remains integrated into the dual-clutch gearbox, while the second is fitted to the rear axle to provide four-wheel drive.

The additional power improves performance, enabling the Avenger 4xe to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5s, versus 10.9s for the e-Hybrid, and reach a top speed of up to 194 km/h - 10 km/h more.

How the 4xe system works

The rear electric motor is paired with a 22.7:1 reduction ratio, multiplying torque to as much as 1900 Nm at the rear wheels.

Jeep says the four-wheel-drive system will always be available, regardless of the battery’s state of charge. It is permanently active up to 30 km/h, splitting torque 50:50. At medium speeds, between 30 km/h and 90 km/h, rear-wheel drive is engaged only when required.

At higher speeds, from 90 km/h onwards, front-wheel drive becomes permanent, while the rear electric motor disconnects from the axle to reduce fuel consumption.

The Selec-Terrain system lets the driver select the driving mode best suited to the conditions: Auto, Snow, Sand&Mud and Sport. These modes differ in areas such as stability control and torque distribution.

Jeep Avenger 4xe off-road ability

The Avenger 4xe gains a further 10 mm of ground clearance, now reaching 210 mm, allowing it to ford water up to 400 mm deep. Its off-road geometry has also been improved, with approach, breakover and departure angles of 22°, 21° and 35° respectively.

Thanks to its added traction, the new Jeep Avenger 4xe can tackle gradients of up to 40% on more demanding surfaces such as gravel, and up to 20% when the front axle loses grip. The addition of the rear motor has also resulted in independent rear multilink suspension.

In addition, the 4xe comes as standard with a rear tow hook, roof bars and S+M tyres, among other features. The seat upholstery now uses a material that is twice as durable and completely waterproof.

When will it arrive?

Prices for the new Jeep Avenger 4xe have not yet been announced. However, orders for the model will open later this year, from the fourth quarter.