Jeep Renegade Sport vs. Latitude

1. Overview

The Sport model is the base model available for the 2016 Renegade. It comes standard with a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine, running all-season tires on 16-inch steel wheels. The Sport model comes in a manual transmission only. Step into the interior and the driver is welcomed with cloth seats, making for easy maintenance. The Uconnect system comes with a 5-inch screen and 4 speakers. 60/40 fold rear seats make for plenty of interior space for those trips to the beach or store. With a rear backup camera, power windows and door locks, keyless entry, and push-start ignition, the car still has a plethora of options. High-value features that come standard with the car include the stop and go engine, capless fuel fill, and tire fill alert. The Sport model Jeep Renegade was engineered to provide excellent fuel efficiency and aggressive pricing value for the customer.

The 2016 Jeep Renegade is a sub-compact SUV vehicle that is available in several different trim levels. The models are: Sport, Renovation, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. Each offers the driver a unique driving experience with a diverse number of features that encompass the style, price, and way of life. The purpose of this article is to compare two such models, the Sport and Latitude, to help a potential customer make an informed decision during their purchase. The car is priced from J$3,999,000 to J$6,450,000 brand new. Authorized Jeep dealers offer guaranteed spare parts and full maintenance for three years or one hundred thousand miles. In addition, this vehicle has received great reviews, many concluding with a high recommendation. This vehicle is a viable option in its class, and purchasing a new or used model with a warranty can offer the driver peace of mind. With various financing options available, the potential buyer can own a 2016 Jeep Renegade for a reasonable monthly rate. This article will compare and contrast the 2016 models in depth to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

2. Performance

In terms of handling or driving control, the suspension of both Jeep Renegade models is equally good. But with the ground clearance being higher than other B-segment cars, it will affect how the car conquers the terrain and how it stabilizes when passing over bumpy roads. Jeep Renegade users who want to use their car for adventure activities should not be worried about the stability and comfort of the ride. It has good handling, control, and stability. With all situations and conditions on the terrain, the use of FWD with the lighter weight of the Sport model will provide better and more economical stability. The step-by-step mode selection and extra modes on the Latitude model will be very helpful, but the use of the Renegade itself is already capable of providing good stability and comfort. [1][2][3][4]

Both claim to have very good fuel economy, with 7.5L for highway, 9.9L for city, and a combined 8.7L per 100 km in the engine use of the FWD Sport model, and 8.1L for highway, 10.6L for city, and a combined 9.4L per 100 km in the engine use of the 4WD Latitude model. The fuel usage can be rated or even said to be better than the other competitors. With the price difference of the fuel around the city and highway, the difference in price is just a little. But the fuel usage rate claimed by Jeep Renegade may not be achieved by the users. The high rate of torque in a wide rpm range on the engine will affect the fuel usage. However, the price difference is not too much. A high fuel price range of about 8.1-10.6L/100 km will not put a burden when using the car for adventure events.

The petrol engine used by both models produces a power of 103 kW (138 hp) between 5500 rpm to 6500 rpm and a torque of 230 Nm (170 lb ft) between 1750 rpm to 2500 rpm. Both accelerations will not be much different, but the Latitude's performance may be smoother due to slightly higher torque and being equipped with 4WD. The mode selections in Latitude models will also better help the car sustain stability and traction when passing through certain terrain, as the system distribution of torque on each wheel can be different. Although it does not seem significantly different, the capability of the engine will affect the fuel usage and the handling or control of the car.

Jeep Renegade Sport and Latitude, both of which come with the same engine and transmission. Both use a 16-valve MultiAir petrol engine, inline 4-cylinder, and 1.4-litre capacity coupled with a 6-speed C635 Dual Dry Clutch Transmission. Nevertheless, the Sport is labelled as a "multi-purpose passenger vehicle" and the Latitude as a "truck, multi-purpose". In terms of equipment, there are small differences in performance. Since the Latitude is the upper model of the Renegade lineup, it comes with mode selections. Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud modes will help optimize the FWD/4WD system with the Selec-Terrain. Sport only comes with a Selec-Terrain mode switcher. The Hill Start Assist, ParkSense Rear Park Assist System, and Passive Entry will not be found in the Sport model. But do they affect the performance of the car a lot?

2.1 Engine

For different engines, Renegade Sport engine uses a 1.4L I4 engine, while Latitude uses a 2.4L I4. Latitude has one advantage and that is the horsepower. It has 180hp and 175 lb-ft in comparison to 160hp and 184lb-ft torque for the Sport's engine. A downside of the Latitude's engine is the fuel economy and the price. Latitude is far less efficient than the Sport with 21mpg city/29mpg highway and costs $2000 more at base MSRP. The torque and the lower price make the Sport's engine a better choice for the vehicle. The Sport's engine appears to be more fitting for the vehicle. With Renegade's engine having less horsepower, the vehicle will still be more than suitable due to it being smaller and lighter in comparison to Latitude. The higher horsepower engine on Latitude may not be totally beneficial and may also be overpriced.

2.2 Fuel Efficiency

This would be a useful comparison point for interested buyers, whereas some prospective customers may not be particularly concerned with fuel efficiency compared to the cost of the vehicle. In such a case, the more expensive 4WD option and higher fuel consumption would still be feasible if considering a Sport model.

All these factors would mean that the Latitude is no doubt more fuel efficient compared to the Sport model. However, at this point in time, no real-world tests have actually been carried out, and as of now, they are just theoretical. Normally, many factors would affect fuel efficiency, and this would vary from driver to driver. The vehicle itself would also be a significant factor; for instance, a 4WD vehicle would always consume more fuel than 2WD due to the extra load on the transmission.

Another reason for the Latitude's superior fuel efficiency could be its slightly smaller body size, where a reduction in weight would also mean reduced fuel consumption. The Sport model, although similar in looks and dimensions to the Latitude, seems to be designed as a more rugged and sporty vehicle. This can be observed from the available options for 4WD in the Sport model compared to the Latitude, where it is standard.

Both Jeep Renegade Latitude and Sport models are quite fuel efficient. The Latitude returns superior figures, rated at 24 km/L, whereas the Sport model is not that far behind at 20 km/L. This can largely be attributed to the engine size of the Sport model, which is 1.4L, whereas the Latitude is 1.6L. Tyre size may also play a crucial role, and it is quite possible that the Latitude comes with low resistance tyres, which would greatly increase fuel efficiency.

2.3 Handling

Both cars come with antilock disc brakes, rear drum brakes, traction and stability control, airbags, and an available rear camera, with the Latitude Renegade having additional available safety features.

Now, the Sport Renegade, on the other hand, is the direct opposite. It is heavier with body-on-frame construction, but it is still capable off-road. With a more aggressive tire tread pattern, the Sport Renegade has better off-road traction and control. Handling is slightly more difficult than Latitude Renegade as street driving is less responsive and handling is sluggish due to solid beam-axle rear suspension, which is a major difference compared to the Latitude Renegade's 4-wheel independent suspension. The car rides to do compromise passenger comfort and space as it is more truck-like, and the short wheelbase gives a choppier ride. This is due to Sport Renegade being targeted for genuine off-road enthusiasts who want superior off-road capability from other SUVs in the same class.

Latitude Renegade is the best car in the Jeep company. It's specially designed for city driving and lesser off-roading, which makes it save some money and gas. It runs with a 2.4 litre multi-air engine with 4WD. With a lighter body compared to other counterparts in Jeep, it is slightly faster even during off-roading, giving the driver a more desired response. The steering is good and easy to get used to, as street driving is similar to Renegade, with the suspension tuning providing a more compliant ride even over rough pavement. The car is easier to handle due to its lighter body and smaller size, but it does not compromise passenger compartment space and overall comfort.

3. Features

The Renegade has a very impressive interior given the cheap pricing compared to other Jeeps. The Latitude comes with 2 options of cloth interior (one with distinct stitching) and a premium cloth interior. This leaves many packaging options for those who like to take their seats out and get them dirty. The Latitude has more options with the seating, which can be upgraded to a premium leather group. Step up into the Latitude from the Sport and you have the option for a power driver's seat and a 40/20/40 rear folding seat. Both models come with Jeep's My Sky open-air roof system. This system is essentially removable roof panels with a storage bag option. The panels are stored away somewhere in the vehicle. The promised removable panels could allow a potential buyer to purchase a Sport with the open-air feel and buy the roof panels later, thus saving them a good chunk of money compared to the Latitude and Limited models. [5][6][7][8]

The Sport comes with a soft, pliant look and round headlights, while the Latitude has a honeycomb grille and a more aggressive look. The Latitude will be aimed towards my demographic. It has an automatic transmission, a remote start, and a few interior upgrades. Some of the rumored options are heated seats and a heated steering wheel. Both models will come in 2 and 4-wheel drive. They will share a platform with the Fiat 500L and are just over 166 inches long, giving them a relatively short wheelbase. While the Compass and Patriot are still 2 years away, the Renegade will be taking the torch of off-road capability for the Jeep brand in the compact SUV segment.

3.1 Interior

Get ready to enjoy those long car rides, Jeep Renegade buyers, with a comfortable interior. Both models come with a 60/40 folding rear seat. Front-row passengers also get nice deep cup holders and a sizable glove box. The front passenger seat also folds forward for long cargo such as surfboards or lumbar supports. All door panel armrests and center armrests are nicely padded for superior comfort. Latitude models have a height adjuster for front seats as well as a full-length floor console and a 115-volt power outlet. This feature is especially nice when camping or tailgating, where you can charge phones or plug in a small TV. Latitude also has a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, which is a nice feature to protect and preserve the life of your Jeep. Heated front seats and steering wheel are an available option for Latitude models. High Altitude and Trailhawk models feature premium leather-trimmed seats. These heated seats come with eight-way power adjustment, including four-way power lumbar adjustment for both driver and front passenger. Finally, the dual-zone automatic temperature control is a feature that you will not find on a Renegade Sport model. With this feature, the driver and front passenger will be able to set their preferred temperature.

3.2 Technology

By offering voice command and allowing phone access with steering wheel audio controls, Uconnect promotes safe driving and hands-on wheel/eyes-on-road conditions, while at the same time providing an exclusive technology experience with the various features available. The Uconnect and 5.0-inch touch screen will help highlight a great technology feature in the Jeep Renegade Sport and Latitude.

Device pairing is a simple process, which allows for up to 10 devices to be paired so multiple passengers can share command of the system. After a phone is paired to the system, the phone book and recent call list will sync over to the radio, so customers' phone data can be accessed using voice command, another tool to help make for safer driving. Also, incoming and outgoing calls are displayed on the screen, which is beneficial for the driver.

The standard Uconnect 5.0 offers a 5.0-inch full-color touch screen. The system offers a user-friendly software layout, making it easy to pair smartphones and set presets. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, applications for smartphone integration, and voice command software. Voice command can be used for the radio, music player, phone, and points for navigation, all while keeping both hands on the wheel to help promote safe driving.

The technology aspect of the Renegade Sport and Latitude is the same for both vehicles. Both have a 5.0-inch touch screen, six speakers, and an audio input jack. Both Sport and Latitude come with a standard Uconnect multifunction system, with integrated applications for hands-free phone and streaming audio.

3.3 Safety

As far as crash test results go, the Renegade has scored well above average for its class. The IIHS rated the small SUV as "Good" (above "Acceptable", "Marginal", or "Poor") in front overlap, side impact, roof strength, and moderate overlap tests. The only "marginal" rating was for headlights on the Trailhawk model, a lower ranking for a more difficult standard on a single test than any other small SUV that received "marginal" or "poor" ratings for any of these test results. The NHTSA gave the 2017 Renegade a 4-star rating out of a possible 5 for its overall safety – it's a solid score, as it is not uncommon for vehicles in the SUV class to have less favorable ratings. The Sport and Latitude both received 4 stars for frontal crash, rollover, and overall ratings, and 5 stars for side crash ratings. These are great ratings for the Renegade and are certainly confidence-boosting when buying a lower-tiered model with what some might think doesn't have as much safety equipment. The 4-wheel drive versions of the Sport and Latitude both lost a star on rollover ratings, making them the only models of the 2017 Renegade to score four stars on overall safety. No, the Renegade isn't a luxury car with the latest in automotive safety technology, but it's held its own in crash tests and has numerous airbags available on higher-end models to ensure you are getting what you are seeking in a safe vehicle.

The Sport Renegade comes equipped with essentially the same safety equipment that is available as an option with the manual transmission model. The Limited and Trailhawk Renegade models come with standard airbags in the front row, as well as at the driver's knees and side curtain airbags down each side. This is an upgrade over the dual front airbags and front side airbags on Sport and Latitude models. The Safety and Security Group on these models also offers Blind Spot and Cross Path Detection, which is crucial for seeing cars that may be out of your direct line of vision when backing up or switching lanes.

4. Pricing and Conclusion

A customer looking to get most of their money's worth from a Renegade will probably want to stick with a Sport model and option and get an equipment package to their desires. If a customer has a strong point in owning a Latitude, capable to run equipment from a Sport model at a dealer, it would be a better value and yet a very slight increase of price than it would be buying a Latitude.

Then come with the Latitude starting at a base price of $24,600 which is quite a jump in price compared to the Sport. The Latitude is a pricey model since it does not come with any of the optional off-road hardware that the Sport model has. Formerly equipped a turbocharged engine that made it renamed to the Altitude now is an option merely. This model has a much higher stress on its appearance featuring 16-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and several available cloth and interior colour schemes. Although many buyers may think it is worth it for this model, overall it is a higher price for a very slight boost in hardware from the previous model.

Starting with the Sport model, it ranges with a base price of $18,700 which is very affordable for a Jeep. It offers its first model with a nine-speed automatic transmission and its expected shower and go speed with making zero to 60 in 9.1 seconds. Its hardware is very impressive for the price. It comes with a premium 115-volt power outlet and a rearview camera is optional and have different transmission settings for various traction levels.

Choosing the perfect lifestyle vehicle has now become even easier with the price comparison between the Jeep Renegade Sport and the Latitude models. The difference in the price between both models is of a few thousand dollars.

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