There are many 4x4s that look the part but put them to the test in tough conditions and they falter. However, for those on the lookout for a compact SUV that punches above its weight and is rather partial to a muddy track, Jeep now offers an all-wheel drive version of its Avenger.

The invite came from the Jeep PR team to join them for a little brand immersion on the scenic Swinton Estate. And so, this brave explorer set off for a night under the stars at Camp Jeep. I’m not a fan of camping, but I was promised a comfortable billet for the night, and my canvas accommodation did not disappoint. Good food and company were the icing on the cake and there was the opportunity to indulge in some water sports. I'm not a water babe but enjoyed watching fellow journos kayaking, paddle boarding and getting very wet.

The exact model to test was a North Face variant, a collaboration between Jeep and the outdoorsy American brand. First impressions do count and there’s no doubt the North Face Avenger doesn’t disappoint. With distinctive yellow on the grille, chucky plastic cladding, and exclusive badging, this is not a car for the shy and retiring sort.

The North Face model has been bulked up with raised ground clearance, beefier bumpers, and reinforced underbody cladding. It looks every inch ready to tackle a snowy Pennine Lane or soggy festival field and reassuringly, it is more than just window dressing.

Day two saw our Jeep convoy tackle one of the local green lanes, and whilst this was not unduly challenging, Jeep had also set up a special off-road course. This was far tougher, with steep grassy ascents and descents, all of which were accomplished safely and with ease. The standard-fit hill descent control was an undoubted boon.

The three cylinder 136hp turbocharged petrol engine is mated to two dinky electric motors, one on each axle, and it proved surprisingly spritely on our rather long road route. There’s a touch of roll in the twisties, but the ride is softer than you expect, soaking up potholes and cattle grids with ease. My driving companion and I completed the route almost an hour quicker than other in the group, in no small part thanks to local knowledge and a rather brisk driving style.

Time in the passenger seat was used to assess the interior. Seats inspired by North Face puffer jackets proved to be reasonably comfortable and I’m told they are washable which may well be appreciated. Familiar hard black plastics are evident, but what you prod and poke feels robust enough, and there’s a pleasing chunkiness to the switchgear. You might spot a dash of the special edition’s signature yellow, but otherwise if isn’t a radical departure from ‘regular’ Avengers.

The rear is a tighter squeeze. Adults up to six-foot will find their knees brushing the seatbacks and heads close to the roof. Boot space at 325 litres is decent for the segment, though the rear electric motor does nibble into luggage room.

Tech is competitive, with a handy 180-degree camera and all-round parking sensors for those tight car park manoeuvres. Storage inside is flexible too with big door bins, a central cubby and a conveniently placed dash shelf all helping to keep one’s paraphernalia in place. Rear visibility is not its strong suit thanks to thick pillars and a dinky third window, but the camera tech more than compensates.

As for economy, Jeep claims over 51mpg, but even those with a delicate right foot are more likely to see mid to late 40s. Driven hard through the Dales, we were some way off that figure, but this is certainly not representative. Two hungry journalists keen for lunch does little for any vehicle’s economy!

A North Face edition of the Avenger can be on your driveway for £35,219 and it comes with a tent, water bottle and a bag with Jeep and North Face branding. Lose the branding, and a 4xe Upland model will cost just £31,219.

I enjoyed my time with both Jeep and its Avenger North Face model. It can be considered a proper Jeep and will doubtless prove to be far more capable than most buyers will ever need. It has a go-anywhere spirit, eye-catching looks and boasts hybrid versatility. I hope to spend more time with one very soon and will have no qualms tackling all the lovely and challenging green lanes closer to home.