When Fiat Chrysler combined Italian design roots with traditional American off-road heritage, the result was a polarizing subcompact crossover. While North American buyers mostly saw gasoline MultiAir and Tigershark powerplants, global markets received a heavy-hitting oil-burner variant. The 2017 Jeep Renegade 4x4 Diesel paired a robust 2.0-liter MultiJet engine with permanent four-wheel drive architecture, giving small crossover buyers an unexpected blend of low-end grunt and long-distance fuel efficiency.
This review breaks down whether the diesel-driven Renegade lived up to its rugged styling. We will explore real-world output numbers, transmission pairings, off-road limits, and common ownership headaches.
Powertrain Specifications and Engine Performance
Underneath the flat hood, the 2.0-liter MultiJet II turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine changed how this baby Jeep drove compared to its petrol siblings. European and select international markets had access to two main tunes for this motor: a 120 horsepower variant and a punchier 140 or 170 horsepower setup.
The 140-horsepower version delivered 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque at a low 1,500 rpm, while the top-tier 170-horsepower variant matched that same 350 Nm torque output but sustained it across a wider power band. That massive torque curve arrived early, letting drivers crawl over obstacles or pull out for highway passes without wringing out the motor.
- Displacement: 1,956 cc (119.4 cu-in)
- Aspiration: Variable Geometry Turbocharger (TGV) with Intercooler
- Torque: 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) @ 1,500–1,750 rpm
- Emissions Standard: Euro VI compliance
Transmission Options: Manual vs. Automatic
Transmission pairing depended heavily on the power output you chose. The 140-horsepower diesel typically came mated to a responsive six-speed manual gearbox, which gave drivers direct control over gear selection during technical trail driving.
If you stepped up to the 170-horsepower configuration—often found in higher trims like the Limited or the trail-rated setups—the engine worked alongside the ZF nine-speed automatic transmission. While the nine-speed unit offered a very low crawl ratio in first gear for off-road maneuvering, it occasionally hunted for gears during sluggish city commutes. Once cruising on open asphalt, however, ninth gear dropped highway engine speeds down significantly, saving fuel on long road trips.
The 4x4 System and Off-Road Capability
Jeep didn't strip away its trail credentials for its smallest model. The diesel 4x4 variants utilized the Jeep Active Drive or Active Drive Low systems, featuring a rear axle disconnect that only engaged the back wheels when slippage was detected.
For severe terrain, the system included a 20:1 crawl ratio, hill descent control, and the Selec-Terrain dial. Drivers could toggle between Auto, Snow, Sport, and Sand/Mud modes to alter throttle response, transmission shifting, and torque distribution. Ground clearance sat at roughly 7.9 to 8.7 inches depending on whether you opted for standard suspension or the raised Trailhawk package, providing respectable angles for approach (21 degrees) and departure (32 degrees).
Fuel Economy and Real-World Range
Fuel efficiency remained the primary reason buyers sought out the oil-burner over the thirsty 2.4-liter Tigershark petrol engine. On the older NEDC combined cycle, the 2.0-liter MultiJet achieved roughly 46 mpg (5.1 L/100km).
In realistic daily driving, owners commonly saw between 38 and 42 mpg combined. Paired with a 12.7-gallon (48-liter) fuel tank, the Renegade diesel easily cleared 500 miles of highway range between fill-ups. This made it a favorite for long-distance commuters who wanted utility without constant fuel stops.
Common Weaknesses and Ownership Pitfalls
Despite solid mechanical fundamentals, the 2017 diesel model carried a few well-documented drawbacks:
- DPF Clogging: Modern diesel particulate filters (DPFs) require regular sustained highway runs to regenerate. Drivers who only used this vehicle for short school runs or city crawls frequently encountered clogged filters and dashboard warning lights.
- Cabin Noise: At idle and under hard acceleration, the characteristic diesel rattle penetrated the cabin more noticeably than in the quieter petrol editions.
- Weight Penalty: The heavy iron-block diesel engine sat squarely over the front axle, making the steering feel slightly heavier and dulling initial turn-in agility on winding backroads.
For deeper technical context on Jeep's crossover lineup, you can review specifications via CarAndDriver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the 2017 Jeep Renegade diesel tow heavy loads?
Yes, when properly equipped with a factory towing package, the 4x4 diesel variant can pull up to 2,000 pounds (900 kg). Its high low-end torque makes pulling small utility trailers or pop-up campers effortless, though payload capacity inside the cabin drops as tongue weight increases.
Is the 2017 Renegade diesel reliable for long trips?
Mechanically, the 2.0-liter MultiJet engine is durable if maintained with timely oil changes and quality fuel. However, its complex emissions equipment—including exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves and diesel particulate filters—demands regular long-distance driving to prevent carbon buildup.
How does the diesel handle deep snow and mud?
When paired with the Active Drive system and winter or all-terrain tires, it performs exceptionally well in deep snow. The combination of instant low-end torque and electronic brake-lock differentials lets it claw through slick surfaces where standard front-wheel-drive crossovers slip.
Where was the 2017 Jeep Renegade manufactured?
Unlike traditional American-built Jeeps, the Renegade was manufactured alongside its corporate cousin, the Fiat 500X, at the SATA plant in Melfi, Italy. This European production run heavily influenced its engineering choices, layout, and availability of diesel powertrains overseas.
