Jeep has big expectations of its smallest model, the Renegade, especially on the European market where the brand has never seen any of its models rack up significant sales volumes.

However, things may change with the Renegade, which is built in Italy alongside the upcoming Fiat 500X. In theory at least, that should mean it is designed to cater to European tastes.

UK magazine Auto Express tested the Renegade both on and off-road, with the rugged Trailhawk version found to be very competent on Fiat’s Balocco off-road proving ground. But does the fact that the Renegade is engineered to be good off-road have an impact on its on road capabilities?

Well, yes and no. The Renegade is described as having loads of grip and little body roll in corners. However, the steering is deemed not connected enough and the cabin is rated as quite noisy. Overall, the reviewer says the Renegade is not as fun to drive on the road as key rivals such as the Nissan Juke and Mini Countryman. Scroll down to watch the review.

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