Jeep's new Compass guns for premium rivals

What’s new?

Pretty much everything. The new Compass is far removed from its predecessor and completes the Jeep range, neatly slotting in between the Renegade and the Cherokee. It also marks the first time that Jeep has entered the compact SUV segment – the biggest SUV segment in Europe.

Together with the all-new looks and stretched Renegade underpinnings, the Compass also benefits from plenty of tech, spanning advanced safety systems to the latest Uconnect systems, including the sizeable top-spec 8.4-inch touchscreen version.

Notably, in addition to the range’s four-wheel drive models, there’s also a more extreme, off-road focused version in the shape of the Trailhawk.

Looks and image

It’s a Jeep, no mistake about that. If it was all soft lines and flowing curves, then it just wouldn’t be one, but the designers have smoothed off the brand’s traditionally boxy design to give the Compass the contemporary look that’s the hot ticket with compact SUV buyers.

Contrasting with the trademark Jeep touches like the seven-slot grille and squared-off wheelarches, there are the modern and popular SUV additions of a sloping roofline and different coloured roof.

Jeep’s pushing for a premium feel with the Compass and inside it’s tried to reflect this with new materials and technical details. It’s a comfortable place to be with the big centre console helping to create a bit of a cockpit feel for the driver and the cabin’s colours not being unattractive. Some of the plastics could be better, though.

It feels quite well screwed together and as for having the right image it’s an absolute winner – quite simply, there’s no other compact SUV that’s got a pedigree like it.

Space and practicality

As a family car that’s a tad out of the ordinary, the Compass stacks up pretty well.

Although it’s wearing the ‘compact’ tag, its interior feels spacious with decent levels of legroom, headroom and luggage space. Notably, there’s a good number of storage solutions, including a multi-level rear cargo floor and, for added convenience, the availability of a powered tailgate.

As well as space, most families want to see a good level of protection and, according to Jeep, the Compass delivers with an eye-popping 70 safety features. There’s the usual myriad of airbags and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system, but what stands out is that the entire Compass range gets the accident-avoiding Forward Collision Warning-Plus and LaneSense Departure Warning-Plus systems as standard. The availability of such goodies as Adaptive Cruise Control and automated parking means its surprisingly comprehensive specification is bang-up-to-date too.

It’s also easy to get comfortable. There’s no issues with the driving position and the seat and steering wheel offer plenty of adjustment.

Behind the wheel

It’s no race car, but as an SUV the Compass’s driving dynamics are in line with much of the competition.

The steering isn’t the most direct, but it feels taught and surefooted, Jeep’s work on the fully independent suspension and the use of its unique frequency damping front and rear strut system clearly paying off. While its engines can sound a little strained when pushed, the ride feels quite refined.

Off-road, the Compass is much stronger. Even the front-wheel drive version is a dab hand at negotiating rutted and rocky tracks, but the choice of two four-wheel drive systems – Active Drive and Active Drive Low – take the Compass literally to a higher level.

Of all the models, it’s the specialised Trailhawk that is most capable. With such features as an exclusive ‘Rock’ mode included in its Jeep Selec-Terrain system, a ride height that’s 2.5 cm higher than the ‘normal’ Compass and ground clearance of 216 mm, it’s quite an eye-opener as to what it can tackle.

Value for money

With prices yet to be announced it’s hard to know whether the Compass is going to offer good value. When pushed, all Jeep will say is that it will be competitive with its rivals. It’s a fair assumption that it won’t be the cheapest in its class though – Jeep’s surely going to want to charge a little premium for its badge.

Who would buy one?

Compact SUV buyers who want a true ‘SUV’ that fits with their active lifestyle. It will also appeal to those who want something different to the norm and, from a practical point of view, to those who want versatility and safety as well as individuality. The Trailhawk’s also a worthy option for anyone who’s serious about straying from the beaten track, turning in an off-road performance that’s unheard of in the sector.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model: Jeep Compass
Price as tested: TBC
Engine tested: 1.6-litre diesel
Power: 118bhp
Torque: 320Nm
Max speed: N/A
0-60mph: N/A
MPG: N/A
Emissions: N/A

By Christian Tilbury