Renegade vs 500l: the ultimate small suv showdown
What To Know
- The 500L achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the Renegade gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- The Renegade features a more rugged and utilitarian design, while the 500L has a more upscale and stylish interior.
- According to Consumer Reports, the Renegade has an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5, while the 500L has a rating of 2 out of 5.
The subcompact SUV segment is a competitive one, with automakers vying for attention with their compact offerings. Two notable contenders in this segment are the Jeep Renegade and the Fiat 500L. Both vehicles offer unique features and capabilities, catering to different types of drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the better choice for you.
Performance and Capabilities
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency
The Jeep Renegade offers a range of engine options, including a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 160 horsepower and a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 180 horsepower. The Fiat 500L, on the other hand, comes with a single engine option: a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 160 horsepower.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Fiat 500L has a slight edge over the Renegade. The 500L achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the Renegade gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Performance
The Jeep Renegade stands out with its impressive off-road capabilities. It features a standard four-wheel drive system, ground clearance of 8.7 inches, and a variety of off-road-oriented features, such as the Trailhawk package. The Fiat 500L, on the other hand, is primarily designed for urban driving and does not offer significant off-road capabilities.
Interior and Comfort
Passenger and Cargo Space
The Jeep Renegade offers more spacious seating for both passengers and cargo. It has a seating capacity of five and a cargo volume of 18.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which can be expanded to 50.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Fiat 500L offers seating for five and a cargo volume of 16.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 42.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Interior Features and Comfort
Both the Renegade and the 500L offer comfortable and well-equipped interiors. The Renegade features a more rugged and utilitarian design, while the 500L has a more upscale and stylish interior. Both vehicles come with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
The Jeep Renegade and the Fiat 500L offer a comprehensive suite of safety features. Both vehicles have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.
Reliability Ratings
In terms of reliability, the Jeep Renegade has a slightly better track record than the Fiat 500L. According to Consumer Reports, the Renegade has an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5, while the 500L has a rating of 2 out of 5.
Price and Value
Starting Price and Trim Levels
The Jeep Renegade has a starting price of $27,495 for the base Sport trim. The Fiat 500L has a starting price of $23,590 for the base Pop trim.
Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying levels of features and capabilities. The Renegade is available in six trim levels, while the 500L is available in four trim levels.
Value Proposition
The Jeep Renegade offers a more versatile and capable vehicle for those who prioritize off-road performance and spaciousness. It comes with a higher starting price but also offers a wider range of features and capabilities. The Fiat 500L, on the other hand, is a more stylish and fuel-efficient option for those who primarily drive in urban environments. It has a lower starting price but may not offer the same level of off-road capability and spaciousness as the Renegade.
Which One Is Right for You?
The Jeep Renegade and the Fiat 500L are both excellent subcompact SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Renegade is the better choice for those who prioritize off-road performance, spaciousness, and versatility. The 500L is the better choice for those who prioritize style, fuel efficiency, and a lower starting price.
The Verdict: A Balanced Choice for All Needs
Ultimately, the best choice between the Jeep Renegade and the Fiat 500L depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a capable off-roader with plenty of space, the Renegade is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient urban companion, the 500L is a great option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a better off-road performance?
A: The Jeep Renegade has a more advanced four-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance, making it better suited for off-road driving.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Jeep Renegade offers more passenger and cargo space than the Fiat 500L.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Fiat 500L has a slight edge over the Renegade in terms of fuel efficiency.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher safety rating?
A: Both the Jeep Renegade and the Fiat 500L have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
Q: Which vehicle has a better reliability rating?
A: The Jeep Renegade has a slightly better reliability rating than the Fiat 500L, according to Consumer Reports.