FAST FACTS
* Model: Jeep Renegade Latitude 4×2* Exterior color: Glacier Metallic* Interior color: Black/Sandstorm* Engine: 2.4-liter, four-cylinder* Horsepower: 184* Transmission: nine-speed automatic* Fuel economy: 31 mpg highway, 22 mpg city* Dealer: Moss Motors (South Pittsburg, Tenn.)* Price (as tested): $23,690
“Renegade,” a rock anthem popularized by the 20th century band Styx, is a song about an outlaw who has been caught by “the long arm of the law” and is waiting for his appointment with the gallows.
Just thought we’d share that little piece of music trivia with Millennials, the young target buyers for the new Jeep Renegade, who aren’t likely to remember anything about 1979 when “Renegade” climbed to No. 16 on the pop charts.
Sometimes automotive trends, like popular songs, emerge from out of the blue. And the popularity of compact SUVs such as the Jeep Renegade qualifies as a big-time lightning strike. The segment, which didn’t exist a few years ago, now includes the Chevy Trax, Buick Encore and Kia Soul. And on the horizon for later this spring looms the arrival of the new Honda HR-V.
The segment is becoming big enough to carve into slices. The Encore is for buyers who want luxury, the Trax is a blue-collar version of the Encore and the HR-V will appeal to import loyalists. Meanwhile the Renegade — with an available off-road package — is aimed at those who seek an element of edgy adventure in their rides.