Jeep Avenger BEV unveiled at the Paris Motor Show

Jeep has officially unveiled its first purpose-built battery electric vehicle – the Jeep Avenger. Launched at the Paris Motor Show, it brings with it everything that is intrinsic to Jeep’s DNA, but with an electric powertrain and all the advantages that brings.

Just last month Jeep formally announced an EV model offensive and revealed that the Avenger would be the first of three all-new, all electric models. It has now revealed the full details of its first EV, which will be a compact SUV, very much centred on the European market. Christian Meunier, Jeep brand CEO, said: “The new Jeep Avenger represents a key milestone for the brand as it is the first of a portfolio of all-new Jeep BEVs to be introduced in Europe.”

Powertrain and performance

Whilst Jeep assures us that its fundamental DNA, which includes off-road capability, remains intact with the Avenger, it only gets front-wheel drive at launch. The powertrain is apparently all-new, despite having the same figures as others within the Stellantis Group umbrella. A 156bhp, 192lb-ft motor sends power to the front axle and a 54kWh battery which is produced in-house allows for a WLTP range of 342 miles in urban driving. Knock around 100 miles off of this for a combined figure.

The battery can be charged at up to 100kW DC or via the 11kW on-board charger. Using the former will charge from 20 to 80 per cent in 24 minutes, whilst using the latter will fully charge the Avenger in 5.5 hours.

Whilst front-wheel drive is a disadvantage for going off-road (which we seriously doubt many Avengers will), Jeep has equipped the car with Selec-Terrain and Hill Descent Control so that it could conceivably pull itself out of a damp field. Driving modes include “Mud” and “Sand” for off-road excursions as well as Normal, Eco and Sport for on-road driving.

Exterior design

Jeep has pitched the Avenger at cars like the Mokka-e and it is unapologetically compact in size at 4.08m long, though when combined with 18 inch wheels, it still looks chunky. Short overhangs combined with those larger wheels and 200mm ground clearance means it has a 20 degree approach, 20 degree breakover and 32 degree departure angles – great for bumpy terrain.

Up front, the traditional seven slot grille is present, but has evolved so it is wider in order to enhance functionality. Muscular bumpers and wheel arches are very much in keeping with Jeep’s design language on its larger models. At the rear, the signature lights have an ‘X’ pattern inspired by the X fuel cans found on original Willys Jeeps. Skid plates finish off the look.

Interior design and tech

Jeep’s design inspiration for the interior was “design to function”. The dashboard is a single horizontal function ‘beam’ which includes air vents, ambient lighting and a central 10.25 inch touchscreen which can been seen and operated by the driver or passenger. A total of 34 litres of storage space, in the form of cubby holes, is available around the dashboard and front seats – a segment best. Also unusual in the segment are the optional leather and massaging seats.

In the rear of the car, the central tunnel can be moved or even removed to increase storage space. Boot space sits at 380 litres with the seats in place, and rear hatch width has been increased to make loading easier. A hands-free power lift tailgate adds to the car’s useful functionality.

Device mirroring, alongside Apple Car Play and Android auto deal with connectivity, whilst the Jeep Mobile App allows owners to operate various functions such as climate and door locking, remotely. Further advanced driving aids and safety equipment is generous as standard, with adaptive cruise, lane centring and traffic jam assist make longer journeys easier. Also on offer is traffic sign recognition, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cycle recognition, drowsy driver alert, blond spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, 360-degree parking sensors and active park assist with rear camera.