Jeep introduced the second generation Compass in India in 2017, followed by a facelift update in 2020. Despite being a high-quality SUV with an impressive array of features and technology, the brand has struggled to establish a strong foothold in the Indian market. With another facelift likely coming in 2025, the Compass continues to offer features that many of its rivals have yet to introduce. We had the opportunity to review this SUV and provide some insights into what it offers and why it might be worth considering. Let’s dive in!
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The SUV sports the classic Jeep grille with seven block positioned between the LED headlamps that also has the dual-function LED DRLs and Indicators. Below the headlamps is the cube-shape LED fog lamps, and mesh-type blacked out grille. The bumpers are skid plates finished in carbon black both front and rear, and the front profile looks sporty and rugged. Moving to the side profile, the body has creases with thin wheel arches, side skid plate, body-coloured door handles, black finish for the non-functional roof rails, and rides on 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The rear profile features shark fin antenna on top of the little spoiler, unique shaped LED Tail lamps, and rear wiper with washer.
Dimensions | Jeep Compass | MG Hector | Mahindra XUV700 | Tata Harrier |
---|---|---|---|---|
Length | 4405 MM | 4699 MM | 4695 MM | 4605 MM |
Width | 1818 MM | 1835 MM | 1890 MM | 1922 MM |
Height | 1640 MM | 1760 MM | 1755 MM | 1718 MM |
Wheelbase | 2636 MM | 2750 MM | 2750 MM | 2741 MM |
Turning Radius | 5.65 M | 5.8 M | 5.7 M | 5.75 M |
Ground Clearance | 178 MM | 192 MM | 200 MM | 205 MM |
Fuel tank | 60 L | 60 L | 60 L | 50 L |
Boot space | 438 L | 587 L | – | 445 L |
Kerb Weight | 1469 – 1778 KG | 1545 – 1751 KG | 1960 – 2040 KG | – |
From the inside, the Jeep Compass has a 10.1-inch infotainment system positioned above the AC vents and the AC vents are aligned with chrome line to give it that one clean dashboard look. It has the dual-tone dashboard option as well. The Compass has a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a huge panoramic sunroof.
It has 2-zone climate control, and two USB ports at the front and rear. Around the gear lever, it has a metal toggle switch for drive modes, buttons for 4WD lock, hill descent control, 4WD low, and electric parking brake with auto hold. The push start/stop button is on the left side of the steering wheel next to the infotainment side. Moving to the rear seats, it is split in 60:40 ratio with recline seat as well.
The Jeep Compass measures 4.4 meters in length. Despite being smaller in dimension compared to its rivals, it offers ample space for rear seat occupants to sit comfortably, even on long journeys. The front row seats are electrically adjustable in eight ways, allowing for personalized seating positions, and the driver’s seat comes with a memory function. The rear seats have a 60:40 split and a recline option, providing extra comfort by allowing passengers to stretch their legs.
Notably, the Compass is designed with plenty of storage spaces, including two cupholders, door pockets, a center armrest, and a good-sized cooled glovebox. It also features a sizable boot with a capacity of 438 liters, which can easily accommodate 6 to 7 suitcases, making it ideal for long vacations. The SUV’s upright hood provides a clear driving view, enhancing the driver’s ease and confidence on the road.
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Diesel | Jeep Compass | MG Hector | Mahindra XUV700 | Tata Harrier |
---|---|---|---|---|
Engine | 2.0 L 4 Cylinder MultiJet II | 2.0 L 4 Cylinder | 2.2 L 4 Cylinder | 2.0 L 4 Cylinder |
Displacement | 1956cc | 1956cc | 2198cc | 1956cc |
Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
Power | 168 BHP | 168 BHP | 153 BHP / 182 NM | 168 BHP |
Torque | 350 NM | 350 NM | 360 NM / 420 NM / 450 NM | 350 NM |
Transmission | 6 Speed MT / 9 Speed AT | 6 Speed MT | 6 Speed MT / AT | 6 Speed MT / AT |
Fuel Efficiency | 14.9 – 17.1 KMPL | 16.17 KMPL | 16.57 – 17 KMPL | 14.60 – 16.80 KMPL |
We had the chance to take the Jeep Compass for a long drive and an adventurous ride. The SUV is available in five variants and is powered by a 2.0L diesel engine producing 168 BHP and 350 NM of torque, coupled with either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Although diesel engines typically generate more noise than petrol engines, the insulation underneath the front hood effectively minimizes engine noise. Additionally, the cabin insulation is excellent, reducing road noise even when cruising above 80 KMPH.
The Jeep Compass features Terrain Modes, or “Selec-Terrain,” a traction management system that helps tackle tough conditions with options for Mud, Sand, Snow, and Auto. The SUV is equipped with disc brakes on all wheels, and during our brake test at 60 KMPH, it came to a halt almost immediately, which is crucial for challenging conditions.
Let’s talk about the steering of the SUV now. The SUV is easy to manoeuver left or right thanks to its light steering which is so helpful during high speed situations. Although as you start to push the SUV beyond 100 KMPH speed, the steering starts to pick a bit weight along with vibrations but still the it’s good to handle. Jeep also offers Dynamic Torque Steering, which helps in handling and stability of the SUV by distributing torque between wheels. This enhances the driving experience by offering better control, especially during cornering, acceleration, and on slippery surfaces.
Let’s talk about the ride and handling of the SUV. Jeep has fitted the SUV with McPherson Strut with Lower Control Arm at front, and Multi Link Suspension with Strut Assembly at the rear. The independent suspension setup allows the Compass to deliver superior on-road driving dynamics. The exclusive long-travel telescopic structure, combined with a segment first Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) system and precise electric power steering makes for the smoothest drive on any terrain.
This helps the SUV to handle on a road surface to handle potholes and speed bump exceptionally well, keeping the occupants in the cabin not worried about hitting their head on the roof, or literally jumping off the seat when it glances over the city roads. Even in corners, it glides around very easily without anyone feeling the effects of it inside.
So now there’s a big question to answer: Is the Jeep Compass still worth it compared to its rivals? While its competitors are constantly updating themselves in terms of features and performance, the Jeep Compass remains the only SUV in its segment to offer a 4×4 driving option for off-roading activities, making it stand out. In terms of features, the Compass is on par with its rivals, offering a comprehensive suite of features that make it a worthy contender. Additionally, its bold exterior design and premium interior further enhance its appeal. Notably, the mileage of the Jeep Compass is comparable to other SUVs in the segment. Despite the fierce competition, the Compass offers a unique combination of off-road capability, stylish design, and a well-appointed interior, making it a strong choice for buyers.
SPORT:
2.0 L DIESEL MT: Rs. 25.08 L
LONGITUDE (O):
2.0 L DIESEL MT – Rs. 29.94 L
2.0 L DIESEL AT – Rs. 32.28 L
LIMITED (O):
2.0 L DIESEL MT: Rs. 31.70 L
2.0 L DIESEL AT: Rs. 34.04 L
BLACKSHARK (O):
2.0 L DIESEL MT: Rs. 32.28 L
2.0 L DIESEL AT: Rs. 34.63 L
MODEL S (O):
2.0 L DIESEL MT: Rs. 34.04 L
2.0 L DIESEL AT: Rs. 36.39 L
2.0 L DIESEL AT (4X4): Rs. 38.83 L
Models | On-Road Price |
Jeep Compass | Rs. 25.08 – Rs. 38.83 L |
MG Hector | Rs. 16.13 – Rs. 26.05 L |
Mahindra XUV700 | Rs. 16.36 – Rs. 31.97 L |
Tata Harrier | Rs. 18.42 – Rs. 31.16 L |
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