Jeep announced two new special-edition Renegade models ahead of the 2016 L.A. Auto Show – the 2017 Renegade Altitude and this, the 2017 Renegade Deserthawk. Playing off Jeeps current “-hawk” naming scheme, the Deserthawk brings a slew of minor upgrades that form a rather complete and intriguing special-edition trim. Best of all, this production Jeep is birthed directly from the 2015 Renegade Desert Hawk concept Jeep built for the 2015 Easter Jeep Safari.

This goes to show that Jeep takes its concept vehicles very seriously. While some might be on the wild side, others have the ability to transition into production. That’s exactly the case with the Renegade Deserthawk. Even down to the paint color and graphics package, this production Jeep mirrors the once one-off custom upgrades found on the 2015 concept.

“The Jeep Renegade Deserthawk takes the best-in-class capability of the Renegade Trailhawk and combines it with a unique look and additional features that include rock rails and a towing package – all inspired by the desert’s extreme conditions,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.

Jeep is going so far an announcing pricing and release dates. Yep, the 2017 Renegade Deserthawk carries a base price of $28,140 and will be available come January of 2017. There’s a ton more information Jeep announced about this special-edition model, so keep reading for the full scoop.

Continue reading to learn more about the Jeep Renegade Deserthawk.

2017 Jeep Renegade Deserthawk

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  • Model: 2017 Jeep Renegade Deserthawk
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What makes the Jeep Renegade Deserthawk special

The 2017 Jeep Renegade Deserthawk is based on the Renegade Trailhawk trim level and includes all the off-roading goodies normally found in the Trailhawk package. That includes Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4WD system, the Selec-Terrain system, tow hooks front and rear finished in red, unique red interior trim pieces and red piping on the leather seats, underbody skid plating, and more aggressive tires.

The Renegade Deserthawk builds off that by adding black, 17-inch wheels; rock rails, unique graphics on the hood and rear, an interior fitted with Light Frost stitching and accents; all-weather floor mats and cargo tray; and the inclusion of the Trailer Tow Group.

From the photos, we can see the hood graphic matches that of the Desert Hawk concept and brings a topographical map of Moab, Utah – home to some of the toughest off-road trails in the U.S. It’s also the location of Jeep’s annual Easter Jeep Safari gathering where thousands of Jeep owners descend every Spring to off-road and socialize. The D-pillar holds the other graphic – a star modeled after those found on WWII-era U.S. military equipment. Obviously that plays well into the Jeep’s historical beginnings.

The photos also show the Renegade Deserthawk wearing a set of Falken Wild Peak A/T tires, which are far more aggressive than the Renegade Trailhawk’s standard Goodyear Wrangler SR-A tires. The Deserthawk name is also seen just below the Renegade badge on the doors. And of course, the all-important Trail Rated badge rides high on the front fender, just below the A-pillar. The Deserthawk package can be had in four colors, which include Alpine White, Anvil, Black or Deserthawk-exclusive Mojave Sand. That last one is our pick.

We expect the Renegade Deserthawk to be a more capable off-roader thanks to those tires and the functional rock slider along the rocker panels. These two items work wonders for off-roading, since grip is always an important factor. Protecting the rocker panel and doors is also extremely important. Repairing or replacing these parts can get expensive. The rock rails allow the Jeep to simply skid its way along rocks, should they be taller than its 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

Though the same as the standard Trailhawk, the Deserthawk’s 20:1 low range crawl ratio helps it get over rough terrain and climb hills with ease. The Selec-Terrain system still features the standard modes, including Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock. Powering the Renegade is Jeep’s 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. And despite its size, the Renegade is capable of towing up to 2,000 pounds.

As mentioned above, the 2017 Jeep Renegade Deserthawk goes on sale in January for a starting price of $28,140. Jeep is set to release more photos and information on the Renegade Deserthawk at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show.