Shopping for a new vehicle is a fun experience, but it can be overwhelming. If you’ve settled on a 2017 Jeep Renegade, that’s a good start, but now you’ve got to go over trims, special editions, packages, and other options. Read this quick guide to help you further narrow your choices.
Pick From One of Four Trims
The 2017 Renegade is available in four trims: Sport, Latitude, Altitude, and Limited. All are available as four-wheel drive or front-wheel drive SUVs, and all except the Limited have a 1.4-liter I4 MultiAir Turbo Engine. This is upgraded to a 2.4-liter I4 MultiAir engine on the premium Limited model. Other important differences to consider include:
- All trims, except the Sport, have Uconnect 5.0 technology (the Sport has Radio 3.0).
- The Power and Air Group package is available for the sport. The Cold Weather Group Package is available for the Latitude and Altitude.
- The Limited is the only Jeep with a remote start system and passive entry technology.
- All trims except the Sport have automatic headlamps and cornering front fog lights.
Compare these trims fully on Jeep’s website to help you determine which might be right for you.
Consider the Renegade Special Editions
In addition to the four Renegade trims, you may select a special edition vehicle that comes with exclusive features. For example, go with the Trailhawk (starting at $26,895) if you want to take your Renegade off-roading. It’s the only option equipped with Jeep Active Drive Low and the Rock Mode in the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System. The Renegade Desert Hawk ($28,390) is another special edition to consider.
Leave Room in Your Budget to Upgrade and Customize
One of the best tips when shopping for a new Renegade is to start with a list of your wants and needs. Which trim is essential for you, and which packages are musts? You may want a Desert Hawk or Limited, but you might get a better deal by purchasing a lower trim level and adding some options to cover your needs. Consider the starting MSRP of each trim to help you budget:
- Sport: $17,995
- Latitude: $21,495
- Altitude: $22,190
- Limited: $25,195
You’ll access the lowest possible price by building a front-wheel drive rather than an all-wheel drive model. If you plan to drive mostly on paved roads and in good conditions, this may be the best choice for you.
Go for a Test Drive
With a list of your needs and wants in mind, it’s time for some test drives. Call the dealership ahead to let them know which trims you want to take out. During your drive, try to go on the highway, some side streets, and any roads or conditions you normally drive in to get an accurate feel for the vehicle. Be willing to compromise on your wants while standing firm about your needs — you can negotiate for a great deal this way.
Ready to get behind the wheel of your new Renegade? Visit a local dealership to get started or to build one of these SUVs from scratch, and remember the pointers above if you still need help narrowing down your options.
Photo: “Jeep Renegade launch event” by Janitors licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original