Jeep Avenger 4xe adds hybrid powertrain and AWD to small SUV

Jeep on Wednesday announced the Avenger4xe as the first all-wheel-drive version of the Avenger sub-compact crossover sold abroad.

The name 4xe, pronounced "four by e", is used by Jeep for all-wheel-drive electric models. There are also 4xe versions of the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, both equipped with plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Avenger debuted as Jeep's first electric car in late 2022. A gas and mild hybrid powertrain was later added, all of which are paired with front-wheel drive only.

The Avenger4xe powertrain combines an already available gas engine, a 1.2-liter inline 3 with a turbocharged, and a pair of rated electric motors of 28 horsepower each. Offering 134 hp alone, the Gas enigne drives the front wheels along with one of the electric motors and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The second electric motor is used to power the rear wheels, forming an all-wheel drive system.

All four wheels can only be powered by electricity, but only at very low speeds, e.g. in early offline acceleration. Electric motors can also provide a boost function to aid performance during high load conditions.

Performance figures include 0〜62mph acceleration values of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 120mph.

Being an all-wheel-drive jeep, engineers made some changes to the Avenger4xe to be able to handle some off-road conditions. In addition to Jeep's Selec terrain drive mode selector for off-road, the Avenger 4xe also says the Jeep provides increased wheel joints on the rear axle, and the unique front and rear fascia along with available all-terrain tires are further enhanced with an improved approach of 22, 21, and 35 degrees respectively. Improve Avenger 4xe's off-road chops, thanks to the new features, breakovers, and departure angles.

The management of the all-wheel drive system also ensures that a permanent 50:50 split at low speeds delivers power to all 4 wheels. At higher speeds, the rear motor is used only when traction is required, which helps to save fuel.

The order book for Avenger 4xe will open later this year in the market where baby jeeps are offered.

Avenger is riding on the CMP modular platform of Jeep's parent company Stellantis. The platform is designed for sub-compact and compact cars and is also included in the associated Alfa Romeo Jr. and Fiat 600. Production is carried out at the plant in Tychy, Poland.

Most CMP-based crossovers are about 160 inches in length, or about 6 inches shorter than the already small rebel, so none of them can reach the United States.