Jeep Renegade: Latitude vs. Altitude

1. Overview

There are several key features offered with both packages, including either similar or different features altogether. Starting off with the Latitude build, for a 4x2 it starts at $22,390, and at $23,790 for a 4x4. This build has a very good value, with reliability and fuel efficiency being the biggest appeals. A 24 city/31 highway mpg is great for this SUV, which has 5 seats and 180.4 inches in length. The fuel-saving start/stop system is encouraging, considering that the stop button for this feature is located right above the power window controls. This feature is also available with the Altitude build. SiriusXM radio and keyless entry are standard with the latitude build, while the popular altitude package includes an extra 1-year subscription of SiriusXM radio. The interior has a depth of character with an available, attractive dual sunroof; the sunroofs are a feature often enjoyed with the Altitude build. Another feature offered with the Latitude build is an available 18-inch wheel and cold weather package which includes a windshield wiper de-icer and heated steering wheel. Heated seats are an option as well. Dual climate control is another convenient feature, especially with more than one person in the car. And finalizing with the safety of this vehicle, there are available park assist sensors and a rearview backup camera. 6 airbags are also included throughout the vehicle, and a red tow hook is included with a 4x4 Renegade. This is a change from the traditional black tow hooks of Jeep and definitely adds a little personality and character to this model.

Jeep Renegade ticks all the boxes. Renegade is Jeep’s attempt to build a more urban-oriented model, to appeal to the growing number of buyers looking for small, fuel-efficient SUVs. It is among the first vehicles to be produced in Italy. This model is available in four different trim levels: Limited, Latitude, Sport, and Trailhawk. The Trailhawk is only available in 4-wheel drive, while the Sport model is only available to be configured with front-wheel drive. All other models can be configured with either. Throughout this article, we will be focusing on the Latitude and Altitude packages, as these are arguably the most popular packages of this model offered by Jeep.

1.1. Introduction to Jeep Renegade

The 2015 Jeep Renegade Latitude starts at $21,295 for the 4x2 and $23,545 for the 4x4. It has plenty of features and packages to cater to its consumers. Some key features with the Latitude include ParkView rear backup camera, U-Connect system with a 5.0-inch touch screen display, and an available 18x7.0-inch Bronze painted aluminum wheel. A premium group package, which includes a 115V auxiliary power outlet and an additional 115V auxiliary power outlet in the back of the rear seats, is convenient for tailgating and can power electronic devices or any other optional equipment needing power. This package also includes a Beats premium audio system with 9 speakers and a subwoofer, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and a ton of safety and security features. This includes seven airbags, turn signal indicators on the power heated mirrors, and keyless enter 'n go, which is a convenient feature to lock and unlock all doors simply by grabbing the handle or drive without taking the key out of your pocket. Lastly, a cold weather group package is available for the Latitude. This includes a premium wrapped heated steering wheel, front heated cloth bucket seats, and a windshield wiper de-icer. With this long list of features and options, the Latitude can range up to a costly $30,000, as it has been tested by KBB.com_STEP_TIMESTAMP ~ 2016-09-19T21:39:49.000-07:00~.

For the 2015 model year, Jeep Renegade is its first small SUV without the word "Patriot" or "Compass" attached to its name. It is based on the Fiat 500X, which they have managed to share the platform with. The small 4x4 is available with a 1.4L Turbo I4 MultiAir and a 2.4L I4 MultiAir, which is more off-road oriented. It is available with both 4x2 (front-wheel drive) and 4x4 (four-wheel drive with lock) to cater to all audiences. For the 1.4L engine, a six-speed manual transmission comes standard but can be optioned with a 9-speed automatic. While the 2.4L engine only comes with the automatic. Four trims are available for the Renegade: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and TrailHawk. The starting price ranges from $17,995 for the Sport model to $25,995 for the TrailHawk model.

1.2. Key Features of Latitude

The Latitude model is slightly larger than the Sport model by 0.8 inches in width and height. The Latitude body-colored mirrors and high gloss 16-inch wheels give it a unique, clean look. The "Black Side Roof Rails" will make securing items on the roof a breeze. The six-way adjustable driver seat is a step up for those who are looking for more comfort compared to the standard four-way adjustable seat in the Sport model. The Latitude also comes standard with a 5.0 touchscreen display, SiriusXM Radio, and a few additional options. The Renegade Latitude starts at $22,595 for the front-wheel drive option. This model is available in various colors and is the perfect option for those who are looking for a little extra without breaking the bank.

The Jeep Renegade Latitude is a midrange model with various trim levels and options to choose from. The Latitude model comes standard with a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine. This engine gets 31 highway mpg and the nine-speed automatic transmission is perfect for a smooth and comfortable ride. The fuel-efficient Latitude model has the option to upgrade to a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 engine. This engine boosts the power level and comes with a four-wheel drive option.

1.3. Key Features of Altitude

From a price perspective, the Altitude sits just above the base Sport trim and has a U.S. MSRP of $22,190 for the 4X2 and $23,690 for the 4X4. That is a very small sum of money over the worth of the Sport trim; however, it increases many standard choices that on the Sport are non-obligatory. The Latitude is another step up from there, with a U.S. MSRP of $24,490 for the 4X2 and $25,990 for the 4X4. If it is a worth-based determination, don't overlook to factor in the cost of elective tools that is standard on all Altitude models. Choose-for-merchandise pricing for the Latitude and Altitude is no contest because the Latitude would simply cost way more and not offer the same features, although both can be loaded up to about $30,000 if every expensive option is chosen. In other words, Altitude is a worth-packed model priced significantly lower than the Latitude, offering great value bang for the buck.

2. Performance Comparison

Comparing the latitude to the altitude, it is evident that the latitude provides more engine options and greater performance while the altitude provides more balance and efficiency. The latitude comes standard with a 1.4L I4 MultiAir Turbo Engine which is able to achieve 23 city/29 highway mpg and 160 horsepower. This provides more power and acceleration than the altitude's 2.4L I4 MultiAir Engine which has 180 horsepower and gets 22 city/31 highway mpg. The latitude also has the option to upgrade to a 2.4L I4 MultiAir Engine which would reduce its fuel economy but give it significant and necessary power for an SUV. The altitude, which provides less power, prioritizes efficiency and still provides a significant amount of engine power compared to other SUVs of its size. In terms of torque, the altitude's 2.4L I4 MultiAir Engine takes the cake with 175 pound-feet compared to the latitude's 1.4L I4 MultiAir Turbo Engine which only provides 184 pound-feet. Both models come standard with a 6 speed manual transmission although the latitude also provides an automatic option and the trailhawk model has a 9 speed automatic transmission. The transmission is a clear area where the latitude earns extra points in terms of performance, yet torque and the 2.4L I4 MultiAir Engine give the altitude a better all-around capability in regards to driving and power. The most significant area where engine power is an issue is during off-road driving and while towing. Although both vehicles are not intended for towing, the latitude will struggle significantly compared to the altitude due to the small engine, particularly for models with 4WD. This may also be a difficult factor to overcome for potential latitude buyers that have interest in the new and affordable jeep, yet are used to owning a different jeep that has significant towing power and capabilities. Since the altitude comes with 2.4L I4 MultiAir Engine standard, it provides a decent option for light towing and should satisfy customers with occasional use of trailers. The additional torque will also help it more with off-road and inclement weather driving. High altitude buyers who are mainly city drivers and just looking for style and efficiency may prefer the stock option on the altitude. Yet, those that desire off-road driving capabilities and have towing needs will find that the latitude may be a more viable and practical option.

2.1. Engine Power and Efficiency

The Jeep Renegade Latitude and Altitude feature the same 2.4L Tigershark engine with MultiAir technology, packed with class-leading capabilities and a choice of two 4x4 systems, both with a 20:1 crawl ratio for best-in-class performance. The engine has been designed to provide more torque at a lower RPM and deliver smooth, consistent power and improved fuel efficiency. The standard 4x4 system opens up a world of adventure and on/off-road capability by giving drivers the best of both worlds. The single-speed power transfer unit (PTU) generates traction in and out of 4WD at all speeds. The two 4WD modes, Auto and Snow, change torque distribution to the rear wheels for extra grip in inclement conditions. The Jeep Active Drive Low system on the Renegade Trailhawk provides best-in-class off-road performance with a 20:1 crawl ratio. The new engine is what helps grant the Renegade best-in-class 4x4 capability with the fuel efficiency to match. A disconnecting rear axle and power take-off unit (PTU) all but eliminate drag on the road, helping the Renegade to attain the best-in-class fuel economy. 4WD models are expected to achieve an estimated 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. This is all complemented by the refined 9-speed automatic transmission that allows for a very smooth and comfortable, yet responsive, drive in any situation. The Select-Terrain system adds to that experience by allowing the driver to tune the traction settings for the best performance on any surface, by coordinating 12 different vehicle systems, including the Selec-Speed Control which adds Hill-ascent and Hill-descent control, perfect for off-road situations. All of these components, when pieced together, make the Renegade a leader in its class in overall engine performance and fuel efficiency.

2.2. Handling and Suspension

The Jeep Renegade in lower-line Latitude trim aims for the comfort and handling side of the equation. It has a more car-like feel on the road, and the ride is a little softer. The Altitude model gives up little in ride quality, but it’s more firmly sprung, and the result is that it feels more substantial and less light duty than the Latitude. Two impressions can be drawn: the handling of the Latitude model on twisty roads is better compared to Altitude, but the Altitude has a more confidence-inspiring and controlled feel. Noise, vibration, and harshness are done well with both models, never leaving the driver overly fatigued. Neither model has much off-road capability, as we found during winter-time trail testing when we pushed both Renegades through a muddy hunt camp trail which leads to a set of power lines. The Altitude model did a little better, but the towing hook job is best left for the Trail Rated Renegade options.

Handling and suspension in a smaller crossover are important because it has to perform a variety of different tasks. It should be comfortable to drive and ride in, but still handle well, and often it’s what makes the difference between a comfortable on-road-only SUV and something that has some off-pavement capability. There is nothing different in the hardware dropped into the Renegade Latitude and Altitude models; the only difference is in how it’s been tuned.

2.3. Off-Road Capabilities

The Trailhawk uses Jeep's Active Drive Low 4x4 system, which is also available as an option on the Limited. This system also has a low range setting and the benefit of the Active Drive system incorporating an automatic 4WD mode, which activates when needed before reverting back to 2WD when conditions allow, improving fuel efficiency.

All other Renegade models, including the 4WD Latitude, greatly benefit from the Selec-Terrain Traction Control System, which allows the driver to choose a variety of settings to maximize driving dynamics depending on weather and surface conditions. If you expect to regularly drive off-road, then the Trailhawk is the pick of the bunch, boasting a unique Rock mode and a low range feature for the transmission.

The Latitude is definitely aimed more at drivers who want an economical, attractive SUV. That being said, front-wheel drive Renegade Latitudes and Altitudes might be remarkably efficient on the road with little additional grip on slippery surfaces.

3. Interior and Exterior Design

If those options aren't for you, there are also a wider variety of colors to pick from to suit your taste. The interior color options are Morroc Black, Sandstorm, and Bark Brown. The available colors for the exterior of the vehicle will be influenced by the available interior colors. For both trims, the standard will be black or chrome spears on the front of the vehicle. This can be changed to an option of body color.

The first difference you can spot is the wheels of both trims. The Altitude comes with all-season 18-inch wheels, whereas the Latitude comes with 16-inch wheels but also offers the option to upgrade to the same wheels as the Altitude. Both the Latitude and the Altitude have the options between a My Sky open-air roof or a sun and sound option. The My Sky option allows passengers to open up their vehicle to the open air with dual retractable roof panels.

For the new Jeep Renegade, there are two available trims: the Latitude and the Altitude. There are some differences in the styling of these trims. The Latitude has a more classic look with updated looks to the interior, while the Altitude has a more rugged styling. The Altitude has a blacked-out look, whereas the Latitude has a more polished look with chrome accents on the exterior.

3.1. Interior Features and Comfort

Jeep Renegade's Latitude and Altitude have distinctive trim packages, both featuring unique interior design with new accents, updated technology to keep on-the-go consumers connected, and an open-air dual-pane sunroof to enjoy the outdoors. The Latitude model boasts premium cloth bucket seating, and the Altitude model features deluxe cloth high-back bucket seats. Both models offer interior details such as high-gloss Piano Black, Silver Anodized Painted Bezels, and Satin Chrome accents on the gear shift, shine on the steering wheel, and on the door speaker bezels. New technology includes the 7-inch LED cluster, Uconnect 5.0, and a 3.5 or 7-inch touch screen that is more user-friendly than before. Jeep Renegade Latitude and Altitude models have a new available AnoGray cap for the dual-pane sunroof that is a perfect addition for anyone who enjoys the open-air feel, delivering a sense of freedom and adventure. All of the features available in these models have been designed based on customer feedback with the Renegade's target consumers in mind and are competitively priced, making them a great value. The Renegade Latitude and Altitude models are in showrooms now.

3.2. Exterior Styling and Appearance

The Latitude and Altitude models offer subtle differences in the category of exterior appearance. Both vehicles are constructed on the same platform, both offer similar dimensions, and both are styled with a rugged and athletic package. At first glance, the only noticeable differences are the Altitude's 18-inch Gloss Black wheels, vs. the Latitude's 17-inch Tech Silver wheels. The rear license brow on the Altitude is painted Gloss Black, and the Altitude is styled with an aggressive front and rear fascia. These fascias are different from those on the Latitude, and differentiate the vehicles without taking away from that classic Jeep look. Although Latitude offers a more personalized style with seven available packages. Optional side roof rails and crossbars provide added utility and enhance the vehicle's rugged and athletic appearance. From the side, a single bright exhaust tip adds to the vehicle's premium look, while "Easter-egg" and distinctive design cues grace both the exterior and interior. With all these differences said, the Latitude and Altitude models still share the same classic Jeep look that's functional and purposeful, and the choice of one over the other is mostly based on personal preference. A preference driven by those who are looking for special features/style to suit their lifestyle, without sacrificing the vintage look of the Jeep Renegade.

3.3. Customization Options

When comparing the Sunroof options, the Altitude wins again. Both models have the option of a Power Sunroof and a My Sky Open Air Sliding Sunroof, and both models' Sunroof/Moonroof has a Black Colored Roof, which is a nice touch of detail. The difference is that the Altitude has specific Black Accent Packages for each Sunroof Option for the Blacked out Design Seeker. The Latitude has no specific Sunroof Packages; this is just a detail to show how the Altitude has an additional option for any Black Accent Package.

This is the most diverse category of comparison between the Latitude and Altitude. The customization options of the Latitude are very minimal compared to the Altitude's blacked out packages that can change EVERYTHING on the vehicle. The Latitude has 2 appearance packages: the Sport Appearance Package and the Deluxe Cloth High Back Bucket Seats. The Sport Appearance Package black out the window trim, and the Deluxe Cloth High Back Bucket Seats come with the option of Black or Sandstorm Colored Seats and more Seat Adjustments over the standard cloth seats. With the Altitude, you get the Altitude Package and a Blacked Out Interior Package. The Altitude Package changes the Altitude decal on the back of the vehicle, the 18" Black Aluminum Rims, Gloss Black Badging, Gloss Black and Black Day Light Opening Moldings all around the Car, and Black Premium Cloth Bucket Seats. The Blacked Out Interior changes the interior from chrome and other color accents to an all Black colored Interior and Black Colored Headliner. The Altitude's 2 Packages heavily outweigh the Latitude's Packages.

4. Pricing and Conclusion

To put things into perspective, let's have a look at the current scrap metal prices in 2020. As of October 2020, the price of scrap metal is roughly $100-$200 per ton, according to All-State Ferrous & Non-Ferrous Scrap Metal Recycling. Considering that the only differences between the two models are the additional cosmetic features and the Altitude-specific engine (the black contrast roof, 4 black aluminum wheels, the Altitude badge, and 40% front windows), each model would cost around $1,220-$1,260 more compared to a base model that has no contrasting paint for the roof. Both models would still be a very close comparison in price, which makes it much more accessible for consumers to purchase the Altitude model.

Both the Latitude and the Altitude are priced similarly, however the Altitude has an approximate starting price of $400 more than the Latitude. According to the Jeep website, the starting price for the 2020 Jeep Renegade Latitude 4x2 is $22,470, whereas the starting price for the 2020 Jeep Renegade Altitude 4x2 is $22,870. The difference in starting price is due to the additional features of the Altitude model, as previously discussed in section 2.2. However, it's important to note that because both the Latitude and the Altitude would require a contrast paint for the roof (i.e., a black contrast roof on the Latitude or a body-colored roof on the Altitude), this increases the price of an Altitude further up to $24,870, making the Altitude $2,400 more than the Latitude.

4.1. Price Comparison

This question simply comes down to if the advertised retail price of the vehicle is too much to turn down on one model and accepting missing out on a number of features, or turn to a different model which can have less features yet price can still be as much as $5k under the original target. Recommended retail pricing for the Latitude starts at $28,000 for the 4×2 1.4L MultiAir Turbo Petrol and maxes out at $38,000 for the 4×4 1.6L MultiJet Turbo Diesel, then you have the Altitude starting at $30k for the 4×2 1.4L MultiAir Turbo Petrol and topping out at $35,000 for the 4×4 1.4L MultiAir Turbo Petrol $35k. So the first scenario would be if someone was after the Latitude with the lower spec and price. But by the time they take a look at the entry level Latitude and compare it to the entry level Altitude, they will see that they can have a vehicle with the relative same price, yet have a few extra features. The alternative scenario here is if the potential buyer was comparing the top end Latitude to the entry level Altitude. The Altitude will be $3k cheaper yet there is quite a big difference in engine power. Yet many people who have bought the Renegade will say that it is not a significantly a bad vehicle; seeing as more so a testament to how good the Altitude is for its pricing.

4.2. Value for Money

Overall, it looks like better value for money can be found with the Latitude. However, personal circumstances, finance agreements, and what has been offered on the used car market will really affect the decision. Higher spec and optioned Altitudes can be found at relatively cheap prices, and due to the time the Latitude has been on sale, used models can now be found at prices close to the current models. If residual values are starting to even out between the two models, similar age and mileage Latitudes will undoubtedly be better value for certain consumers. This article focuses on how the two mid-level Renegade models compare in the UK market: content and specifications of pre-facelift models will vary when compared to 2018 onwards facelift models in different regions, so take that into consideration.

Value for money is an overall good point for the Latitude as its starting price is less, and the sports kit package is available to allow further customization. However, it is quite clear that the engine and technology specifications of the Altitude are considerably better due to the price difference between the models. If a new car with no added options is what you are looking for, the Longitude specification can give more technology and comfort features than the Latitude, so don't rule that out when considering a Renegade. For a higher monetary value, the Altitude is better specified and a slightly larger vehicle. However, with projected residual values, the Latitude won't lose as much money in percentage terms over 3 years as the Altitude, even with a higher initial price. Consumer reports rate the Renegade average in dependability with 3/5 and predicted reliability of the car to be 2/5. So if you plan on keeping the car for a while, the Latitude is the better choice as you won't lose as much money on depreciation compared to buying the Altitude.

4.3. Final Verdict

The Altitude comes in at a price of $23,185 and the Latitude $24,895, but with this price difference, you are getting a lot more features packed into the Latitude. The Latitude represents better value for money; however, it's not the best buy. For people leaning more toward adventuring, off-roading, and wanting a car ready to hit some trails, the Altitude would make a better buy, considering you could take the leftover money and spend it on kitting the car up with some 3rd party performance parts and lift kits. For city driving and an all-rounder easy and smooth drive, with reliable handling, you can't go past the Latitude. This was indeed a very close comparison; the two Renegade models were evenly matched in different selection areas, and both had their own weaknesses and gains. It all depends on whether the customer values style, premium interior appointments, and a good sound system (Latitude) over special edition style, nice wheels, and a nicely priced car (Altitude). At least now, all likes and dislikes between the two are clear. Step up, or step out, the decision is made.