When car buyers look at the 2019 Jeep Renegade Diesel, they want to know if a small crossover can genuinely handle tough terrain while delivering high torque and practical fuel economy. The short answer is yes: by pairing Jeep's Active Drive system with the 2.0-liter MultiJet II diesel engine, this compact utility vehicle achieves 350 Nm of torque at just 1,750 rpm, providing the low-end pull needed for crawling over rocks and navigating deep mud without straining.
Unlike its petrol counterparts, the diesel variant changes the vehicle's entire character on long highway stretches and rough tracks. You get heavy towing capability, robust pulling power, and impressive fuel retention, though you also have to live with diesel-specific maintenance nuances and a heavier front end. Let's break down how the 2019 diesel Renegade performs in the real world, where it shines, and where it falls short.
Understanding the 2019 Diesel Powertrain
The core of the diesel Renegade lineup is the 2.0-liter MultiJet four-cylinder engine. Depending on the specific market and trim level—most notably the rugged Trailhawk—this motor pushes out 168 horsepower (125 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque.
This output is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and a permanent four-wheel-drive setup. That low-end torque band arriving at 1,750 rpm means you don't need to ring out the engine to get moving. It stays composed when crawling over obstacles or towing up to 1,500 kg of braked weight. Additional insights on this are covered by Associated Press.
- Engine Displacement: 1,956 cc turbocharged inline-four diesel
- Max Torque: 350 Nm at 1,750 rpm
- Transmission: 9-speed torque-converter automatic
- Drivetrain: Jeep Active Drive / Active Drive Low (depending on trim)
Off-Road Practicality and Real-World Capability
People buy the Renegade because it wears the Jeep badge, but its platform shares roots with European hatchbacks. The diesel variant, especially in Trailhawk spec, bridges that gap by adding real off-road hardware.
You get a crawl ratio, specific Selec-Terrain traction modes (Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock), hill descent control, and steel skid plates protecting the oil pan, transmission, and fuel tank. The diesel engine's substantial weight over the front wheels actually helps bite into loose gravel and dirt during climbs, though it can make the nose feel heavy during high-speed cornering transitions.
Ground clearance sits at an adequate 21 cm (8.3 inches) on Trailhawk models, alongside unique front and rear fascia designs that improve approach and departure angles. For tight forest tracks and narrow switchbacks, its short overall length makes it much easier to place on a trail than a mid-sized Grand Cherokee.
Fuel Economy and Highway Behavior
One of the primary reasons to choose the 2.0-liter MultiJet diesel over the 1.3-liter turbo petrol or 2.4-liter Tigershark engines is fuel efficiency during heavy use or long road trips.
On the combined cycle, the diesel model returns roughly 6.6 L/100 km (approx. 36 MPG US / 43 MPG UK). When cruising on the motorway at legal speeds, the engine hums along quietly in ninth gear, keeping revs low. However, push it around town, and you'll notice the traditional diesel chatter at idle, along with a slightly firmer ride due to the stiffer suspension required to support the heavier engine block.
- Urban Driving: Expect lower efficiency if you are caught in stop-and-go traffic, which can also trigger particulate filter (DPF) regeneration cycles.
- Highway Cruising: Excellent range, easily crossing over 800 kilometers on a single 55-litre tank.
- Noise Levels: Well-insulated at cruising speeds, though cold morning starts reveal a distinct diesel rattle.
Interior Space, Cargo, and Cabin Ergonomics
The boxy silhouette of the Renegade pays dividends inside, offering exceptional headroom for both front and rear passengers. Because of the squared-off tailgate, packing bulky gear is straightforward.
Cargo capacity stands at a modest 351 liters with the rear seats up, expanding significantly when you fold the 60/40 split bench flat. Furthermore, the front passenger seat folds flat forward on many trims, allowing you to slide long items like surfboards or flat-pack furniture straight through from the dashboard to the tailgate.
Infotainment is handled via either a 7-inch or an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, featuring standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Physical buttons and chunky climate dials remain a major plus, allowing you to adjust settings easily while wearing gloves or driving on bumpy trails.
Common Issues and Maintenance Realities
Owning a modern diesel vehicle comes with specific responsibilities that buyers transitioning from petrol cars often miss.
The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) requires regular extended drives at highway speeds to clear out soot buildup. If you only use your 2019 Renegade Diesel for short five-minute school runs or grocery trips, you will run into clogged DPF warning lights and potential limp modes.
Additionally, check the service history for regular oil changes. Modern emissions equipment, including the AdBlue injection system on European specs, requires periodic top-ups and occasional sensor replacements. The nine-speed automatic transmission also benefits from smooth throttle inputs, as it can occasionally hunt for gears at lower speeds in heavy traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Jeep Renegade Diesel good for towing?
Yes. Thanks to the 350 Nm of torque delivered at low RPM, the diesel model handles braked trailers up to 1,500 kg much more comfortably than the petrol variants, maintaining speed up inclines without excessive gear shifting.
Does the diesel model come in front-wheel drive?
While front-wheel-drive options exist for smaller European diesel engines, the high-output 2.0-liter variants are almost exclusively paired with Jeep's intelligent four-wheel-drive system to manage the high torque output safely.
How often does the diesel engine need servicing?
Oil and filter changes are typically required every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (or annually), but severe off-road use or short-trip driving demands more frequent oil changes to protect the turbocharger and emissions systems. You can read more about routine maintenance guidelines directly via Jeep Official Service.
Can the diesel Renegade handle deep water crossings?
It features water-fording capability up to 19 inches (48 cm) on Trailhawk trims, thanks to raised air intakes and sealed electrical connections, but you should always verify the solidness of the riverbed before crossing.
