Jeep Compass

Jeep is one of the most classic American car manufacturers. Its history is shaped by some of the most iconic off-roaders of all time, such as the Jeep Wrangler. It is dedicated exclusively to the manufacture of this type of vehicle, although some time ago it has also gone on to create SUVs such as the Jeep Compass. More focused on the asphalt than on the field.

We have tested this car:

Test Jeep Compass 4xe S, 240 hp plug-in hybrid

The history of the Compass starts in 2007. It was the first true SUV of the American house, although it is not currently the only one, since it is necessary to add to the Jeep Renegade, his little brother and the model of access to the range. That first generation remained in the markets until 2017, when the second edition appeared on the scene.

That model is the one that currently remains in force, although at the beginning of 2021 it undergoes an update corresponding to the middle of the commercial cycle. It is an important model in the company's strategy in Europe, being the first Jeep model to come out after the creation of the Stellantis Group, forged from the union of the PSA and FCA companies

Technical characteristics of the Jeep Compass

As we have already mentioned, the Jeep Compass is not the smallest model of the house, but neither is it the largest, since that role is played by other models such as the Jeep Cherokee. Under the body of the Compass is the Small Wide extended wheelbase platform, the largest version of the small architecture used by the FCA group, the same that we see in other models of, for example, Alfa Romeo.

These measures install it perfectly in the segment of compact SUVs. Outwardly it reaches a maximum length of 4,04 meters long, 1,87 meters wide and 1,65 meters high. To these dimensions must be added a wheelbase of 2,64 meters. A generous battle that allows you to offer a cabin for a maximum of five passengers. Three of them in an optimal rear row, although somewhat cropped in its central square.

Regarding load capacity, The Jeep Compass offers a trunk with a minimum capacity of 438 liters. A figure that is reduced to 420 liters for the plug-in hybrid versions. Being a Jeep, its off-road capabilities must be taken into account: 16,8 degrees of approach angle, 31,7 degrees of departure angle and 22,9 degrees of breakover angle, with a free height of 20 centimeters and a capacity wading of 40 centimeters.

Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Jeep Compass

As required by current emissions and pollution regulations, the Compass offers a varied range committed to sustainability. Jeep already contemplated this type of units when launching the second generation. Reinforced strategy in its restyling. The mechanical range consists of a micro-hybrid gasoline version and two plug-in hybrid units. A varied offer that satisfies a wide and varied range of customers.

By power, the variant of access to the family is the Compass 1.3 e-Hybrid with 130 horsepower. It mounts a turbocharged block with four cylinders that obtains the ECO label from the DGT. Both come standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with front-wheel drive. This is the only option in the range that cannot count on a four-wheel drive system.

The most efficient of the range are the Compass 4xe with PHEV technology, two electric motors, one on each axle, 11,4 kWh capacity lithium-ion battery and CERO label from the DGT. The starting unit offers 190 horsepower and an approved electric range of 52 kilometers. The most powerful version raises the power figure to 240 horsepower with the same approved electric autonomy. Both units have electric all-wheel drive and automatic gearbox.

Jeep Compass Equipment

One of the points of greatest attention in the renewal of the 2021 Jeep Compass focuses on the technological section. Inside the doors, the American SUV looks good, both in terms of equipment and materials. thanks to the use of soft surfaces with a pleasant touch that increase the sensation of quality and comfort on the part of the clients. In the highest and most expensive finishes, it is offered with the best elements, such as leather.

As is customary in the house, the range of equipment is divided into different levels. From least to most equipped are: Sport, Longitude, Night Eagle, Limited, S and High Altitude, the latter only available with plug-in hybrid mechanics. To them we must add the special 80th edition commemorating the brand's birthday. At each level, not only the load of equipment is altered, but also the aesthetic presence, the interior finishes and the mechanical range. Thanks to this we can obtain a different Compass to match the tastes of each client.

In terms of equipment, it can be said that the Jeep Compass offers all the modern technology one could need. A long list of elements should be highlighted: keyless entry and start, digital instrumentation, multimedia system with 10,1-inch touch panel, digital radio, voice control, navigation, connectivity for mobile devices, and a complete team of driving assistants and Security elements.

The Jeep Compass on video

The Jeep Compass according to Euro NCAP

The Jeep Compass has successfully passed the stringent Euro NCAP crash tests. The score obtained has been the maximum possible, 5 stars, being distributed as follows. 90% and 83% protection for adult and child occupants, respectively. In the event of a pedestrian being run over, the percentage was 64% and, finally, in terms of driving aids, the Compass achieved 59%. These values are still valid in the 2021 renewal since there is no change in the structure of the vehicle.

The Jeep Compass of Km 0 and second hand

The Jeep Compass is the compact SUV of the American house. The first generation of the model was a failure in sales and reliability for the brand, so its depreciation stood at 40%. However, with the arrival of the second generation, those problems have been solved. The depreciation of the new Compass is around 32%, a fact that places it in a term closer to that of its rivals.

If we take a look at the alternative sales channels, we see that the cheapest second-hand units correspond to the first generation. Prices starting from amounts close to 6.000 euros for models with more than 160 thousand accumulated kilometers. The offer of Km 0 vehicles is more limited, and all the available models are prior to the 2021 restyling. Prices are higher, but in some cases interesting discounts are offered.

Jeep Compass rivals

The compact SUV segment is the one with the greatest commercial pull at a European level. All brands struggle with at least one model in the category. The Jeep Compass belongs to the general market, where the competition is even worse. The list of American rivals is long, and important names appear on it on the table: Ford Kuga, Hyundai Tucson, KIA Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan, SEAT Ateca, Peugeot 3008, Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar and many more. Among them, it stands out for its off-road capacity, although its high prices or the absence of some equipment details do not favor it.

Highlight

off-road capabilities
mechanical range
Technology

To improve

Price
trunk capacity
Consumption

Jeep Compass prices

When it comes to prices, the Compass is somewhat more expensive than its most direct competition. The Jeep Compass is offered from a starting price of 39.350 euros, without offers or promotions. This value is related to a unit with a Longitude finish and a 1.3-horsepower 130 e-Hybrid gasoline engine with automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The most expensive in the family is, for the moment, the 1.3-horsepower Compass 240 PHEV with S trim, automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Its price is announced from 46.650 euros, without offers or promotions.