New Avenger SUV is Jeep’s first EV

The important numbers of range and charging for a consumer-focused electric vehicle are 248 miles WLTP and 20 to 80 per cent charging in 24 minutes. A fill-up (0-100 per cent) from an 11kw wall box is claimed to be 5.5 hours. Jeep is keen to point out that driven in more ‘urban’ situations, that’s to say stop-start and low speeds, the Avenger is good for over 340 miles of range.

The Avenger uses a second-generation 400-volt electrical architecture (the first to be launched in Europe) that delivers via the two electric motors 156PS (115kW) and 260Nm (192lb ft). Needless to say, acceleration and top speed numbers are of minimal importance and haven’t been given here, though we do expect more powerful and therefor quicker versions to come.

The marque has put an emphasis on off-road capability, with the Avenger sporting 20- and 32-degree respective approach and departure angle capability. Six driving modes include normal, sport, eco, snow, mud and sand, to optimise the car’s response to various situations.

What about the looks? We reckon Jeep has successfully harnessed its rugged DNA in what is probably the ‘softest’ vehicle the marque has yet produced, with past precedent in the Compass and Patriot. The plump arches and sturdy jaw with the signature seven slots are familiar, while the blacked-out lower body areas and roof help with the proportions. At the back, it’s a little less distinctive, with something of a resemblance to Dacias at a distance. Needless to say, there are plenty of options in terms of customisation, with Jeep showing off the extent of the possibilities with the 100+ accessories with a Paris show car.

Jeep has also put an emphasis on durability and repairability, with 360-degree cladding, skid plates and headlamp guards. These help to defend it in the event of ‘low-speed impacts’, which the marque says make up 70 per cent of accidents in Europe. Jeep expects typical accident costs to be reduced by just under £1,000 thanks to these additions.

On the inside, beyond the typical twin-screen visuals, it is distinctive, with a refined yet rugged minimalism with what Jeep calls ‘design to function’. The exterior colour is brought inside for the dash trim, surrounding a simple oblong shape in which you find the vents.

There’s a large storage area where you might otherwise find a gear selector, pictured by Jeep as ideal for handbags. In fact, Jeep’s keen to point out it has the most interior storage space in its category, with 34 litres, compared to the segment average of 15 litres.

Above the central in a couple of rows of physical buttons – always a good thing – and then above those, the 10.25-inch touch screen. The driver’s display is available in either seven-inch or 10.25-inch sizes. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are a given, while the new Uconnect infotainment is a widget-based system. Owners can also use the Jeep mobile app to locate their cars, unlock them, check the battery levels, and condition the cabin.

UK buyers will be able to place reservations starting in January next year with full prices yet to be announced. European buyers can get their names down now, with monthly costs as low as €249. If the Avenger is good, getting into this segment with a properly affordable and desirable EV could be Jeep’s ‘Fiat 500’ moment. Time will tell.