Jeep’s least expensive, most mainstream model launches in Singapore – and it hides many secrets 

SINGAPORE – Jeep’s smallest ever model (apart from the WW2 original) makes its local debut, and it’s chock-full of fun little details. Here’s what we could find.

Jeep’s history is so intertwined with off-roading that to many a layman, its name is a byword for mud-plugging vehicles in general.  But while its products have always been right at home bashing through the natural jungle, they’ve generally been less suited for life in the urban jungle, particularly one as built-up as Singapore’s. Until now.

Enter the Jeep Renegade, the firm’s first compact crossover and smallest model since the Willys Jeep that served frontline duties in World War II. It made its debut as part of the Jeep Pop Up Store, a roadshow at Millennia Walk that runs till Sunday 4 June, where Jeep’s entire model range is available to view and test drive.

At 4.25m long, the Renegade’s size puts it right in the firing line of rivals like the Nissan Juke, Mazda CX-3 and Suzuki Vitara, but at $139,000 with COE is priced closer to premium models such as the Mini Countryman, Audi Q2.

That’s partly because of its engine, a punchy 1.4-litre turbo with 138bhp that plonks it squarely into Cat B of our Certificate of Entitlement system; and partly also because of the high equipment levels in this, the top-spec Limited version, with features like the Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system, tyre pressure monitoring display, blind spot detection, lane departure warning, reverse camera and even a compass.

Buyers interested in other versions like the off-road-ready Renegade Trailhawk, or cool options like the My Sky removable sunroof can make enquiries, where indent requests will be handled on a case by case basis.

Chrysler Jeep Singapore says that the Renegade will be a big volume seller for them, having received dozens of enquiries even before the car’s arrival here – particularly from loyal Jeep owners who see it as the perfect runabout to accompany their Grand Cherokees and kitted-out Wranglers, as well as MINI owners seeking something more practical yet still distinctive.

We’ve already had a go in the Renegade, and you can read our thoughts about it in our review.

One thing that struck us about it though, is how much fun its designers must have had designing the car. Not only does it look darn cute (like a Jeep that got shrunk in the wash), but there are also little easter eggs sprinkled all over the car. It’s a cheeky little touch that pays homage to Jeep’s heritage and gives the little tyke a fair amount of character.

Here’s what we were able to find:

Jerry can X-shape on the taillamps

and Renegade badge

Jeep’s trademark seven-slot grille on: the speaker surrounds,

rear tailgate,

rear view mirror support,

taillamp lens,

and seats

Topographical map in the centre storage bin

Topographical map and seven-slot grille in storage centre console storage tray

Little Bigfoot on the rear windscreen

Spider in the fuel filler flap

And a not-so-subtle reminder of Jeep’s age

Are there any that we missed? Head down to the Jeep Pop Up Store and see if you can find more!