The 2025 Jeep Renegade is like that friend who still wears cargo shorts—charmingly outdated, but you can’t help but love their stubbornness. In a world of sleek crossovers, the Renegade sticks to its boxy, adventurous roots. But with a few updates for 2025, does this mini-Jeep still deserve a spot in your driveway?
What’s New for 2025?
- Exterior: Still Boxier Than a Lego
- New grille design (because Jeep can’t resist tweaking the seven-slot look).
- Updated LED lighting (standard on all trims, finally).
- Fresh wheel options, including 18-inch black alloys on the Trailhawk.
- Two new colors: Bikini Metallic (a bright teal) and Slate Blue (for those who want to stand out less).
- Interior: Less Rental Car, More Adventure Ready
- New 10.1-inch touchscreen (up from the old 8.4-inch).
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (standard, because cords are so 2010).
- Improved materials—softer plastics, fewer squeaks.
- Trailhawk gets wash-out floors (for when your off-roading involves spilled coffee).
- Powertrains: Same Old, Same Old
- 1.3L Turbo (177 HP): The default choice (and only engine in the U.S.).
- 4xe Plug-In Hybrid (190 HP, 25 miles EV range): Still not available stateside (thanks, Jeep).
- 9-speed automatic (smooth but occasionally confused).
- Off-Road Upgrades (Because Jeep)
- Trailhawk trim still gets skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a lifted suspension.
- Selec-Terrain system (for mud, sand, and snow—because pavement is boring).
- Improved approach/departure angles (not that you’ll use them). What Still Sucks?
- Tiny back seat—great for dogs, terrible for adults.
- No hybrid option in the U.S. (Europe gets the 4xe, why not us?).
- Rough ride—Jeep prioritizes toughness over comfort.
- Underpowered—merging onto highways requires planning. Should You Buy It?
✅ If you want a quirky, capable small SUV.
✅ If you actually go off-road (Trailhawk is legit).
✅ If you love Jeep’s retro styling.
❌ If you need space or comfort—look at a Cherokee instead.
❌ If you want a hybrid—Jeep won’t give you one.
Verdict: 7/10
The 2025 Renegade isn’t the most practical or modern SUV, but it’s one of the last truly fun small crossovers. If you can live with its flaws, it’s a blast.