The Jeep Compass is one of the most well-rounded compact SUVs in the market, offering a premium blend of rugged capability, sophisticated design, and modern technology.
Since its launch, the Compass has become a popular choice for those who seek a versatile vehicle capable of handling both urban environments and off-road adventures.
With its imposing stance, comfortable interior, and advanced features, the Compass continues to be a strong contender in the competitive SUV segment.
Exterior Design:
The Jeep Compass showcases a design that strikes a balance between rugged off-road capabilities and modern aesthetics. With its signature seven-slot grille, aggressive front fascia,
and muscular wheel arches, the Compass exudes a strong presence. Jeep’s design philosophy is evident in every line and curve of the Compass, making it instantly recognizable on the road.
The front end features LED headlamps with distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs), which enhance both the visual appeal and safety by increasing visibility during the day.
The bulging wheel arches house the 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels (depending on the variant), which contribute to its tough, adventurous character.
The sloping roofline and sharp, sculpted sides give the Compass a sleek yet muscular profile. At the rear, the SUV’s LED tail-lamps, paired with a neatly integrated tailgate, provide a contemporary look.
The addition of a dual-tone roof option on higher trims further enhances its premium appeal, making the Compass a visually striking choice in its category.
Interior and Comfort:
Inside, the Jeep Compass offers a premium cabin designed for comfort, style, and functionality. The use of high-quality materials, soft-touch plastics,
and upmarket finishes elevates the overall feel of the interior. Whether you’re driving or seated as a passenger, the interior of the Compass offers a sense of luxury that’s rare in this segment.
The driver’s seat is ergonomically designed to offer good support and comfort for both short commutes and long drives. Power-adjustable front seats,
combined with premium leather upholstery in higher trims, add to the comfort. The rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom, making it suitable for families or long-distance trips.
The infotainment system is centered around a Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The system also supports Bluetooth and voice command, allowing for hands-free operation while driving. Higher trims come with a 10.1-inch touchscreen for a more modern look and feel. The premium sound system further enhances the driving experience, whether you’re on a city road or off the beaten path.
Cargo space in the Compass is generous, with 400 liters available with the rear seats up, which is competitive in its class. The rear seats also fold down to increase this capacity, making it a practical vehicle for carrying luggage, sports gear, or other large items.
Performance and Powertrain:
The Jeep Compass offers a diverse range of powertrains to suit various driving preferences. Buyers can choose between petrol and diesel engines, with both providing strong performance and efficiency.
The Compass is available with manual and automatic transmission options, allowing for greater flexibility depending on the driver’s preference.
Petrol:
The 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine is the heart of the Compass’ performance. It produces around 163 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, ensuring strong acceleration and responsiveness.
This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, both of which offer smooth shifting and efficient power delivery. The petrol engine is ideal for those who primarily use the Compass for city driving or highway cruising.
Diesel:
For buyers who require more torque for off-road or long-distance driving, the 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine is an excellent option. It produces 173 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, making it well-suited for tackling rough terrain or carrying heavy loads.
The diesel engine comes with a 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic transmission, and it’s available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD):
The AWD system is one of the standout features of the Jeep Compass, making it a capable off-roader. Jeep’s legendary off-road heritage shines through in the Compass, offering Trailhawk variants designed to take on more challenging terrain.
The Compass is equipped with Selec-Terrain® traction control, which allows the driver to select different driving modes like Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock. This system optimizes the vehicle’s performance according to the road conditions, ensuring maximum traction and stability.
Handling and Driving Experience:
On the road, the Jeep Compass provides a balanced driving experience, offering a combination of comfort and precision. The SUV features independent suspension at both ends, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear suspension, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough or uneven surfaces.
The suspension setup is well-tuned to strike a balance between ride comfort and handling agility, which makes the Compass feel agile in city traffic but also composed on highways or winding roads.
The steering is well-weighted, offering good feedback, making it easier to handle the Compass both on- and off-road. The vehicle’s high ground clearance further improves its ability to tackle rough trails, while the AWD system provides enhanced grip and control on slippery or loose surfaces.
Safety Features:
Jeep has equipped the Compass with a wide array of safety features to keep both the driver and passengers protected. Standard features include front and side airbags, ABS with EBD, and traction control, ensuring solid safety performance in various driving conditions.
The Jeep Compass also boasts advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as:
- Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Park Assist
These features not only add to the safety of the vehicle but also enhance the driving experience by helping the driver stay aware of their surroundings and avoid potential collisions.
Pricing and Variants:
The Jeep Compass is available in several trims, which include a variety of feature bundles to suit different preferences. The pricing for the Compass starts from around ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom) and can go up to ₹30 lakh for the higher trims with more premium features and the AWD system.
The Trailhawk variant, designed for off-road enthusiasts, is typically priced at a premium, reflecting its enhanced off-road capabilities.
Conclusion:
The Jeep Compass is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a perfect blend of rugged performance, modern technology, and premium comfort.
Whether you’re navigating through city streets, embarking on weekend adventures, or tackling challenging off-road trails, the Compass is capable and versatile enough to handle it all.
With its attractive design, advanced safety features, and impressive driving dynamics, the Compass stands out in its segment as a solid choice for those seeking a premium yet affordable SUV.
Jeep’s commitment to quality, comfort, and performance is evident in the Compass, making it a compelling option for buyers looking to elevate their driving experience.