Jeep’s beginning in India was a rather forgetful one given the lofty prices for its Grand Cherokee and the Wrangler. However, now the SUV-maker is ready to hit the market with its upcoming model – the recently revealed Compass – which it plans on assembling here in India at parent company Fiat’s Ranjangaon facility in Pune.
Jeep has already unveiled the Compass in various left-hand drive markets globally. The carmaker will showcase the first right-hand drive Compass on April 12, 2017 in India. The Compass is believed to be a scaled-down version of the Grand Cherokee and with which it shares its styling tips, like the squared-off wheel arches, the seven-slat grille, the projector headlamps with LED treatment, high ground clearance and big alloy wheels (up to 18-inch). For reference, it’s a size bigger than the Hyundai Creta.
Jeep Compass engines
Internationally, the Compass is being launched with a long list of engine and gearbox combinations; Jeep claims a total of 17 powertrain options for the car. However, in India, the model is expected to pack in a Fiat-sourced 172hp 2.0-litre turbodiesel that’s most likely to be localised for our market.
ALSO READ: Volvo S60 Polestar set to launch on April 14
The engine is likely to be coupled with a nine-speed automatic gearbox which will send power to the front wheels on base variants. However, higher variants will get a four-wheel drive.
For the petrol Compass, it will be a 1.4-litre Multiair engine that gives out 140hp. The engine uses a turbocharger and has electro-hydraulic solenoids between the camshaft and the valve to achieve precise variable timing. This enables the engine to claim more power and efficiency than a regular variable valve timing engine. True to Jeep’s off-roading credentials, the 4×4 system will have a low ratio and a traction management system for various terrains like sand, mud, rocks, etc.
Jeep Compass equipment and features
The Compass is expected to come loaded with features like an 8.0-inch touchscreen for its U-Connect infotainment system, and as many as seven airbags. Jeep enthusiasts will be keen on the four-wheel-drive versions which are most likely to get a low-range gearbox and a locking differential to enable the car to get out of tricky situations.
For hardcore off-roaders, there’s also a Trailhawk variant that’s cranked up by 20mm, gets off-road tyres, extra body cladding, and underbody protection. However, it remains to be seen whether the Jeep Compass Trailhawk would make it to our shores or not.
Jeep Compass price and rivals
With prices likely to hover around the Rs 20-lakh mark, the Compass could really win some serious fan following. Rivals will include SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson, the Ford Endeavour, the Toyota Fortuner and the upcoming Volkswagen Tiguan though the Compass’ off-road credentials could give it a very different flavour.