While Jeep might be best-known for its unstoppable Wrangler and chunky Grand Cherokee, models like the mid-size Compass are now key for this American off-road manufacturer.
Slotting between the Renegade and the Cherokee, this model is an interesting alternative to cars such as the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage.
If you’re considering one, here’s what you need to know…
What engines are available?
Whether you’re looking for a petrol or diesel, there are plenty of engine derivatives on offer with the new Jeep Compass.
Diesel engine options remain the most popular, with the line-up beginning with a 118bhp 1.6-litre diesel that’s mated to a six-speed manual gearbox sending power to the front wheels. A larger 2.0-litre engine option is also available, with outputs of 138bhp and 168bhp on offer. Both come as standard with four-wheel-drive, though you’ll find a manual transmission with the least powerful output and an eight-speed automatic gearbox with the most.
If you’d prefer a petrol, a turbocharged 1.4-litre unit is offered with outputs of either 138bhp or 168bhp. The former is front-wheel-drive and uses a manual gearbox, while the latter utilises an automatic and send its power to all four wheels.;
A new plug-in hybrid version is also set to join the line-up later in 2020.
What trim levels are available?
Buyers have four trim levels to choose from with the Compass, with equipment highlights and prices as follows…
Longitude – from £26,100
Standard equipment adds an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, electric folding door mirrors and part leather seats. It also features dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen that features satellite navigation and smartphone mirroring, as well as a reversing camera.
Night Eagle – from £27,600
This special-edition model features 18-inch alloy wheels, as well as a gloss black styling kit – including a black grille, badges and window trim surrounds. Electric lumbar support is also fitted.
Limited – from £29,100
This high-spec model features additional chrome styling, as well as luxurious touches such as leather upholstery, electric and heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Projector headlights and a windscreen wiper de-icer also comes as standard.
Trailhawk – from £36,990
This flagship model is designed to be the most rugged Compass, so comes with a host of off-road gubbins in a bid to make it unstoppable on the rough stuff. Highlights include a special ‘Rock Mode’, raised suspension, off-road tyres, underbody protection and hill decent control. Revised styling elements also feature, along with front and rear parking sensors, self-parking functionality and blind spot monitoring.
What about personalisation?
Each trim level on the Renegade aims to offer something a little different, though the Trailhawk is the one to go for if you want to stand out from the crowd.
The colour pallet is limited to six colours, though Hydro Blue and Colorado Red add a bit of flair to the range.
There aren’t a huge number of conventional options to go for, though you’re able to specify the Compass with ventilated seats, as well as a towing pack, adaptive cruise control and an electric boot.
What about for company car drivers?
While no plug-in hybrids are available just yet, the efficient diesel options make the Compass a worthy company car option – particularly the models that don’t feature four-wheel-drive, which is what can really drive up emissions. If you’re also wanting your business car to stand out from the crowd, the Compass’s bold styling offers something a bit different to what you’ll find elsewhere in this class.
