The Jeep Renegade 1.4 MultiAir2 4×4 Automatic, produced from 2014 to 2018, represents a significant entry for Jeep into the burgeoning subcompact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Renegade lineup, this variant combined a turbocharged engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, aiming to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency, capability, and comfort. It was a key model in Jeep’s strategy to broaden its appeal beyond traditional, larger SUVs, particularly in the European market where the subcompact class is highly popular. The Renegade, built in Italy, was the first Jeep model to be substantially designed and engineered outside of North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Renegade |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 MultiAir2 (170 Hp) 4×4 Automatic start&stop |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 160 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 55263623 |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 351 l (12.4 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1297 l (45.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Length | 4236 mm (166.77 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1697 mm (66.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 198 mm (7.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.07 m (36.32 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.0° |
| Departure angle | 32.1° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | McPherson |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Renegade 1.4 MultiAir2 4×4 is the 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, designated with engine code 55263623. This engine utilizes Fiat’s MultiAir technology, a fully variable valve lift system. MultiAir hydraulically controls the opening and closing of the intake valves, allowing for precise control of air intake and optimizing combustion efficiency. This system contributes to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The engine employs multi-point fuel injection and is paired with a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The nine-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was a relatively new technology at the time, designed to provide a wider gear ratio spread for improved fuel efficiency and performance. This transmission featured a compact design and sophisticated electronic control unit.
Driving Characteristics
The 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 1.4 MultiAir2 engine, coupled with the nine-speed automatic, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.4 seconds. The automatic transmission, while offering smooth shifts, could sometimes feel hesitant or ‘hunt’ for the right gear, particularly during highway overtaking maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system, primarily front-wheel drive with automatic engagement of the rear axle when slip is detected, provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and on light off-road terrain. Compared to the higher-output 2.4-liter engine option available in the Renegade, this 1.4L variant prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission versions of the 1.4L offered a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic was favored by buyers seeking convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 MultiAir2 4×4 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and various styling packages. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the segment, though some hard plastics were present.
Chassis & Braking
The Renegade utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a McPherson strut rear suspension. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride, but could feel somewhat firm on rough roads. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, along with electronic stability control. The Renegade’s relatively compact size and light weight contributed to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Renegade for its distinctive styling and available technology, but noted that the 1.4 MultiAir2 engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Fuel economy was considered competitive for the class, averaging around 34 mpg combined. Compared to other subcompact SUVs like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3, the Renegade offered a more rugged aesthetic and a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. However, the HR-V and CX-3 were often lauded for their more refined driving dynamics and interior quality. Reliability reports for the 1.4 MultiAir2 engine were mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the MultiAir system and turbocharger.
Legacy
The Jeep Renegade 1.4 MultiAir2 4×4 Automatic remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. While the MultiAir system has a reputation for potential long-term maintenance concerns, many examples have proven to be reliable with proper servicing. The nine-speed automatic transmission, while initially criticized, has generally proven to be durable. The Renegade’s unique styling and available all-wheel drive continue to appeal to buyers seeking a small SUV with a touch of Jeep’s off-road heritage. Its introduction marked a turning point for Jeep, demonstrating the brand’s ability to compete in the increasingly popular subcompact SUV segment.
