All-New Jeep Compass – An unmatched crossover contender

Most people think of Jeeps as tough off-road vehicles that love to get muddy, but when the Compass debuted in 2007, it wasn't like other Jeeps. It didn't look rugged and it didn't even like dirt. Instead, it was a car-based design built for the majority of small-SUV buyers who wanted a fuel-efficient runabout that was also easy to drive around the city. Four-wheel drive was available, of course, but it was a single-speed system – enough to get you through a muddy track and that's about it. As you can imagine, off-road purists didn't much care for the Compass, which they regarded as the exact opposite to all things Jeep. However, the latest model has revised styling and new found capabilities which edge the Compass closer to the "real Jeep" status. So what new this time round? Well the All-New Jeep Compass comes with a refreshed exterior and interior design plus unsurpassed capability in the compact-SUV segment.
 

Jeep Compass

 

Design

The exterior of the All-New Jeep Compass is refined with specific updates that move the uplifts its overall design. With a new bonnet, new front wings, new fascia and new headlights as well as a new front grille – which has been detailed with a small dose of chrome surrounding the traditional seven slots found on all Jeep vehicles. The new face of the All-New Jeep Compass features a more serious, yet sophisticated appearance. Forward lighting performance is improved with the use of quad reflector headlights. Adding an element of muscle, the hood is enhanced with a subtle power bulge. The result is a SUV that projects an attitude that is much more serious and conveys the All-New Jeep Compass' capability in all weather and driving conditions. This trend continues with enhancements to the rear of the All-New Jeep Compass. A new rear fascia, new body-colour rear spoiler and upscale touches, such as LED in the tail lights, are visible. 

Welcoming interior

Power

The All-New Jeep Compass features a standard 2.0-liter power unit. The engine has an output of 158 hp (117 kW) and 191 Nm of torque. Coupled with the engine is a refreshed Continuous Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT2). The engine needs 7.8-litres of fuel to cover 100km. 

Compass in action

Interior

The All-New Jeep Compass interior features luxury trims and adornments that customers will appreciate. A selection of leather trims are available each with a particular feel, stitch and colour. In addition, the armrests and centre console lid are now wrapped in vinyl. The instrument cluster features easy to read graphics with a distinct background colours. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power/heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry, fog lamps, cruise control, deep tinted glass, a removable/rechargeable light, outside temperature display, electronic stability control, heated front seats, keyless entry, front driver and passenger active head restraints, electronic roll mitigation, 60/40 fold-flat rear seat and six way power driver’s seat. 

Rear design

Verdict

Like the Jeep Grand Cherokee before it, the All-New Jeep Compass takes a huge step forward in design, quality and refinement. The economical engine, affordable price and roomy interior make it a worthy competitor to some of its rivals. Although the All-New Jeep Compass is a soft of roader, we would highly recommend you having it with a 4x4 drive train. The All-New Jeep Compass is available from CFAO DT Dobie located along Lusaka Road in Nairobi.