Jeep is well-known for its range of SUVs and 4x4s, and in Europe it’s the Compass that proves to be especially popular, with this Nissan Qashqai rival offering plenty more in the way of character and ability than most of its rivals.
But Jeep isn’t resting on its laurels, and the model is back for 2021 with a range of updates to keep it competitive. But what exactly has changed? Let’s take a look.
Greater ‘European’ focus
Previously the Compass was built as a global model, with examples originally being produced from a plant in Mexico. But more recently production has moved to Melfi, Italy, which gives it a more European feel.
Jeep has enhanced that now too, with the firm saying the new car has been ‘developed to speak a more European language’, thanks to greater refinement and an uplift in quality.
More efficient engines
While Jeep is set to introduce a plug-in hybrid Compass to the UK in the near future, the firm is also working to improve its cars’ efficiency across the range.
On the Compass, it adopts a new 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which is said to offer both improvements in performance and efficiency. Similar improvements have also been seen with the brand’s 1.6-litre diesel unit, with the engines set to deliver up to 27 per cent lower CO2 emissions than before.
More technology than ever
Though the Compass was already available with a good range of interior technology, Jeep is improving things further, and this SUV will now be its most modern model available in Europe.
That’s because it uses the latest Uconnect 5 system, which is underpinned by Android and 4G connectivity to improve its range of features further. A touchscreen size of up to 10.1 inches is available, while a new digital instrument cluster is also now available on higher-spec versions.
New semi-autonomous driving technology
The Compass also makes some big steps forward when it comes to safety, with the model being the first Jeep in Europe to come with Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. That’s thanks to highway assist, which uses adaptive cruise control and lane centering to help keep the car between the lines, though drivers must still be paying full attention at all times.
A new 360-degree camera system is also fitted to higher-spec versions, helping when it comes to parking and manoeuvring.
Revised styling
Given the Compass’s funky styling already, it’s no surprise that Jeep’s designers haven’t changed the formula too much.
Though the differences might not be too noticeable, look close and you’ll spot full LED headlights, a new range of alloy wheels and reshaped bumpers.
The design details also extend to the interior, with the Compass actually getting a completely redesigned cabin that now promises to be more premium and sophisticated than before, thanks to a new dashboard and additional storage spaces.
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