Ep 36. 2015 Jeep Renegade & 2015 BMW i3

In this episode of MotorWeek, we take a look at two vehicles that represent very different segments but have both made big splashes in the automotive world: the 2015 Jeep Renegade and the 2015 BMW i3.

First up, we have the Jeep Renegade. This compact SUV is aimed at a younger, more urban audience who still crave adventure and capability. The Renegade is definitely unique in terms of design - its boxy, rugged exterior is reminiscent of its bigger sibling, the Jeep Wrangler. But inside, the Renegade is surprisingly luxurious, with soft-touch materials, a well-laid-out dashboard, and plenty of high-end features.

Even though the Renegade is built for the city, it still boasts some impressive off-road specs. The Sport and Latitude trims feature a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, while the Trailhawk edition ups the ante with a 2.4-liter engine that outputs 184 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available. And even though the Renegade is compact, it still impresses with its handling and nimbleness on winding roads.

Next up is the 2015 BMW i3, a vehicle that represents the future of electric cars. The i3's futuristic design is definitely a standout feature, with its carbon-fiber reinforced plastic exterior panels and a cabin that emphasizes eco-friendliness with its use of recycled materials. Inside, the i3 is surprisingly spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom for passengers.

But what really sets the i3 apart is its powertrain. Its electric motor cranks out 170 horsepower and delivers instant torque, making the i3 quick off the line. The i3 can travel up to 81 miles on a single charge, but an optional Range Extender can be added to the car to extend its range up to 150 miles. The i3 also impresses with its handling, thanks in part to its low center of gravity and rear-wheel drive setup.

Of course, the i3's electric powertrain isn't the only eco-friendly feature. BMW has worked hard to ensure that the i3 is as sustainable as possible, using sustainable materials throughout the car's construction. Additionally, the i3 is designed to be as energy-efficient as possible during the manufacturing process, with the use of renewable energy sources and careful sourcing of materials.

Overall, the 2015 Jeep Renegade and 2015 BMW i3 represent two very different segments of the automotive market. The Renegade is a fun, capable SUV that's geared towards a younger audience who still want to tackle adventure. The i3, on the other hand, represents the cutting edge of electric cars, with a futuristic design and eco-friendly features throughout. Both vehicles are impressive in their own way, and are sure to appeal to drivers looking for something unique and exciting.