The new 2015 Jeep Renegade debuted in North America on Wednesday at the New York Auto Show. The Renegade will be the first Jeep built outside the U.S., specifically in Italy at Fiat's Melfi plant, according to Carscoops.
The Jeep made its world debut last month at the Geneva Motor Show.
The vehicle will be Jeep's first subcompact SUV, USA Today reported. The Renegade will face competition from several other small SUVs, such as Chevrolet's new Trax, which was introduced at the show as well, and Honda's Fit-based HR-V.
The small SUV appears to have similar style features as the Wrangler, and has similar mechanics to the new floor-door Fiat 500L. While the Renegade was built in Italy, it was designed in the U.S. The vehicle is set to be sold in over 100 markets around the world, with analysts expecting it to be sold particularly in South America, China and Europe.
"It's a Jeep that will help to propel our brand momentum for years to come," said Mike Manley, chief executive officer of Jeep.
The Renegade is designed to offer excellent off-road capability, Carscoops reported. The SUV will offer two all-new 4x4 systems, the Jeep Active Drive full-time 4x4 and the Jeep Active Drive Low full-time 4x4 with a crawl ratio of 20:1.
The vehicle also includes a disconnecting rear axle and power take-off unit (PTU), which will assist in lowering fuel consumption. Both 4x4 systems will instantly engage when 4x4 traction is needed.
Those interested in buying the Renegade will have two engine options: 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with six-speed manual transmission and 2.4-liter Tigershark engine combined with the segments first nine-speed automatic transmission. The Jeep Renegade Trailhawk model comes with four-wheel drive, which is optional on other Renegade models, USA Today reported.
While the Renegade will also be competing against the Kia Soul, Mini Countryman, Buick Encore and Nissan Juke, Jeep said their new vehicle will offer the best off-road capability.
"The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade symbolizes the brand's renowned American design, ingenuity and innovation," Manley said.
