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No plug-in, yes hybrid

Until now, Jeep used the name 4xe for plug-in hybrid models such as the Compass 4xe and Wrangler 4xe. The Avenger 4xe, however, does not have a plug-in hybrid. It is a mild-hybrid. In front is a 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with 100 kW (136 hp), mated to a six-speed DCT automatic transmission. That gets help from two electric motors of 21 kW (28 hp) each – one on the front axle and one on the rear axle. Together, they produce a system output of 107 kW (145 hp).

This makes the Avenger 4xe more powerful than the front-wheel-drive version, which makes do with 73 kW (100 hp). It sprints to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 194 km/h. Not shockingly fast, but smooth enough. More important: it is now a real 4×4.

Four-wheel drive in its own way

The Avenger 4xe’s all-wheel drive system works differently from classic Jeeps with transfer cases and limited slip differentials. This is because the rear wheels are driven by an electric motor and not via a drive shaft from the gasoline engine. Up to 30 km/h, all four wheels are always driven. Between 30 and 90 km/h, the electric motor on the rear axle engages only when necessary. Above that, power goes exclusively to the front wheels – because at those speeds there is little chance that you are scrambling over rocks.

1,900 Nm of torque

If you’re at the foot of an extremely steep hill, you don’t have to worry about whether 145 horsepower is enough. When off-roading, torque is more important. The Avenger 4xe has plenty of that. In fact, the electric motor on the rear axle has an electronic torque converter and can convert torque to – hold on – 1,900 Nm. This allows you to conquer slopes of up to 40% at low speed.

Ground clearance

Jeep also addressed the suspension. The Avenger 4xe is the only one in the Avenger lineup to have a multilink rear suspension. That may seem like a detail, but it means more suspension travel, better wheel guidance and more pleasant handling – even on asphalt.

In addition, the 4xe stands one centimeter higher on its wheels and the approach and departure angles have been improved. Together with the modified bumpers – fitted with scratch-resistant coating – this makes for a more off-road-worthy appearance. You get M+S tires as standard; All Terrain tires are optional. It is not afraid of a puddle of water either, Up to a depth of 40 centimeters you will be dry. All in all, then, the Avenger is quite capable.

Driving experience

The hills around Florence set the stage for our first miles with the Jeep Avenger 4xe. No relentless wilderness, but certainly terrain where front-wheel drive quickly leaves you stranded in mud or stuck on a steep, stony slope. Think swampy forest trails, loose rocks and treacherous mud puddles. Just the kind of conditions where the average consumer car drops out.

The Avenger 4xe doesn’t. Thanks to its extra ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles and tires with more grip, it plows through the Tuscan countryside without a hitch. The all-wheel drive system seamlessly shifts gears when needed and ensures that you always have traction – even if one wheel briefly loses contact with the ground. Rocky path uphill? No problem. Slippery country road downhill? Neither, what it has Hill Descent Control.

It all feels controlled, without the driver having to plod along. This Jeep is not a hardcore off-road beast, but a smart, compact SUV that knows exactly where its limits are – and dares to step smoothly beyond them.

Avenger with a rougher look

Externally, you can recognize the Avenger 4xe by its black wheel arches, roof rails, skidplates and a rear towing eye. The higher positioned fog lights and matte black hood decal also contribute to its adventurous appearance. The overall look is tougher than the regular Avenger, without being overly macho. The proportions remain friendly.

Washable chairs

Inside, of course, you’ll also see some unique touches. The seats are covered with a special “washable” material, useful for those who get in with wet clothes or dirty shoes. A nod to the outdoors, although the interior is otherwise largely the same as that of the regular Avenger.

You’re still in a compact crossover with a modern-looking dashboard, a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment screen that just does what it’s supposed to do. Don’t expect excess luxury like leather upholstery or massage functions, but everything feels solid and thoughtful.

Is the 4xe worth the price difference?

The Jeep Avenger 4xe will cost a minimum of 39,500 euros. That’s about 8,000 euros more than the front-wheel-drive hybrid with 100 hp. For that you get a more complex powertrain, more power, a more advanced chassis and all-wheel drive.

But let’s be honest: do you really need that in the Netherlands? Most buyers will not climb a mountain pass or drive through streams on a weekly basis. For those who live in town and pick up the occasional forest trail, the regular Avenger will suffice. Yet the 4xe offers something extra: character. It feels more robust, more complete – more Jeep.

Conclusion

The Jeep Avenger 4xe is not just any new model. It is the first Avenger that can compete with other 4×4s. Not a gimmick, but a thoughtful compact SUV with true all-wheel drive, improved off-road capability and a more comfortable suspension.

At the same time, it is not a rugged offroader like a Wrangler or Defender. The Avenger 4xe remains a compact crossover, but one that can do more than its size suggests. Looking for a small SUV that you can take to a winter mountain road or a muddy campsite with confidence? Then this is the Avenger to have.