The 2017 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk stands out in the world of subcompact SUVs. While many vehicles in this class focus on city driving and fuel economy, the Trailhawk takes a different path.
It is built for adventure, offering true off-road capabilities in a small, practical package.
For drivers looking for a mix of daily usability and rugged performance, this Jeep deserves a closer look.
Design And Exterior Features
The Renegade Trailhawk’s style is hard to miss. Its boxy shape and bold lines give it a classic Jeep look. The front grille has the brand’s signature seven slots, and round headlights add a touch of nostalgia. Red tow hooks, black hood decals, and unique Trailhawk badging make this trim stand out from other Renegades.
Ground clearance is 8.7 inches, which is higher than most competitors. This extra height, along with skid plates and all-terrain tires, helps the Trailhawk tackle rough roads and rocky trails. Short overhangs at the front and rear also improve its approach and departure angles, making it easier to climb over obstacles.
Interior And Comfort
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s both practical and stylish. The Trailhawk seats five people, with cloth and leather-trimmed upholstery that’s easy to clean after muddy adventures. Red stitching on the seats and steering wheel matches the exterior tow hooks, giving the interior a sporty feel.
The cargo area offers 18.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. Fold the seats down, and you get up to 50.8 cubic feet. While not the largest in the segment, the space is flexible enough for camping gear or luggage. The rear seats split 60/40, making it easy to fit both passengers and cargo.
A unique touch is the My Sky removable roof panels. These panels can be taken off to let in fresh air and sunlight, making the Trailhawk feel almost like a convertible on nice days.
Technology And Features
The 2017 Trailhawk comes with a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard. This system supports Bluetooth connectivity, voice command, and a six-speaker audio setup. Higher trims or optional packages add features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen and navigation.
Other standard features include:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Keyless entry and push-button start
While the technology is not the most advanced, it covers the basics well. The controls are simple and easy to use, which is helpful when driving on rough roads.
Performance And Off-road Ability
Where the Trailhawk truly shines is off the pavement. It is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4×4 system.
Here’s how the Trailhawk compares with some key rivals:
| Model | Horsepower | Ground Clearance (inches) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renegade Trailhawk | 180 | 8.7 | 4×4 |
| Subaru Crosstrek | 152 | 8.7 | AWD |
| Honda HR-V | 141 | 7.3 | AWD (optional) |
The Trailhawk’s Selec-Terrain traction management system lets you choose between Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock modes. This means you can adjust the vehicle for whatever surface you’re driving on. Hill descent control and a low-range gear ratio offer extra help when going down steep slopes or crawling over rocks.
A non-obvious insight: The Trailhawk’s off-road features are not just for show. The low-range gearing and locking rear differential are rare in this class, giving it real ability on tough trails.
On-road Driving And Fuel Economy
Despite its off-road focus, the Renegade Trailhawk handles city streets and highways with confidence. Steering is light, and the suspension does a good job soaking up bumps. However, the ride is a bit firmer than some rivals due to the all-terrain tires.
Fuel economy is average for the segment. The EPA rates the Trailhawk at 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway. This is slightly lower than front-wheel-drive Renegade trims, mostly because of the extra weight and off-road equipment.
Here’s a quick comparison with other subcompact SUVs:
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Renegade Trailhawk | 21 | 29 |
| Mazda CX-3 AWD | 27 | 32 |
| Chevrolet Trax AWD | 24 | 30 |
Safety And Reliability
Safety is important in any car, especially one meant for adventure. The 2017 Renegade Trailhawk comes with:
- Seven airbags, including side-curtain airbags
- Electronic stability control
- Rearview camera
Optional features include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2017 Renegade four out of five stars in overall safety.
Reliability is average. Some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system and transmission. Regular maintenance helps prevent most problems. Jeep’s warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles, with five years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain.
Value For Money
The Renegade Trailhawk had a starting price around $27,000 when new. While this is more than the base model, you get a lot of extra equipment for the money. Used models now offer strong value, especially for buyers who want real off-road ability in a small SUV.
Keep in mind, the Trailhawk’s off-road parts add weight and cost, so only choose this trim if you plan to use its features. For mostly city driving, a lower Renegade trim might be better.
A common beginner mistake is to buy the Trailhawk just for looks, not realizing the ride is firmer and tires wear out faster. Make sure you need its unique abilities before choosing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes The Trailhawk Different From Other Renegade Trims?
The Trailhawk has higher ground clearance, special off-road tires, skid plates, red tow hooks, and the Selec-Terrain system with a Rock mode. It is the only Renegade designed for real off-road use.
Is The 2017 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk Reliable?
Reliability is average. Some owners experience minor issues, usually with the electronics or transmission. Regular service helps maintain performance and dependability.
Can I Remove The Roof Panels Myself?
Yes, the My Sky roof panels are removable by hand. Store them in the cargo area or at home. They are lightweight and easy to handle.
How Does The Trailhawk Perform In Snow?
With 4×4 drive, all-terrain tires, and Snow mode, the Trailhawk handles snowy roads well. It offers better traction than most front-wheel-drive SUVs.
Where Can I Find More Details About The Renegade’s Features?
You can read more on the official Jeep website for up-to-date specs and feature lists.
The 2017 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk is a rare find: a small SUV that’s fun to drive both on and off the road. If you want a vehicle ready for adventure but still easy to park in the city, this Jeep is worth considering. Just be sure its rugged features match your lifestyle.
