Models from the C-SUV segment are extremely popular, and now another model is coming to the domestic market. It is a Jeep Compass model that we had the opportunity to test on the roads of Karlovac and its surroundings. Jeep is always a term for models that are elevated and adorned with off-road capabilities, and we know very well how this famous American brand has changed over the years. Today, the Compass is produced in Europe, and combines the authentic Jeep design with a series of technical improvements that it received as part of the Stellantis group.
An already established recipe
Technically, the new Compass is a twin of the Peugeot 3008 and 5008 models, the Opel Grandland, as well as the latest generation of the Citroën C5 Aircross model. It brings a more robust, modern look and has grown in almost every direction. It’s built on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform, which means it will have a range of electrified powertrains, from mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids to fully electric versions.
The new Compass has long proportions with a length of 4.55 meters, with optimized aerodynamics. Considering that the Jeep is supposed to have good off-road skills, key elements like cameras and radar units are placed higher to reduce the risk of damage during off-road driving. A new dedicated functional exterior with four-wheel drive and the addition of a rear tow eye further emphasize its adventurous spirit and off-road readiness.
Less tilted bodywork
There is a newly tuned suspension, developed to achieve the best possible balance between handling and comfort. It provides a ground clearance of 200 mm, allowing the vehicle to face uneven terrains without compromising road stability. Body roll is reduced by 20%, which ensures a more stable ride. At the same time, the steering calibration has been improved to ensure precision and smoothness. Sound insulation has also been improved, achieved through improved materials such as the new rear window, which is now 11% thicker than before. All this leads to a more pleasant atmosphere while driving.
In addition, the 4xe version will bring a further step forward in performance thanks to a new rear electric motor developed exclusively for the Jeep Compass. It is capable of delivering 132 kW and up to 310 Nm at the wheels, ensuring outstanding traction.
Trunk of 550 liters
The passenger cabin is designed for greater versatility and refinement. The interior space is spacious, and rear passengers enjoy an additional 20 mm of legroom. At the same time, the luggage space has been expanded to 550 liters, which is 45 liters more than before. The total front storage space has a volume of 34 liters, offering more space for everyday items. The interior architecture prioritizes functionality and ease of use. The driver has at his disposal a physical rotary gear selector, an electronic handbrake button and a rubber Selec-Terrain switch located within reach.
Selecting the Selec-Terrain drive mode doesn’t just change the screen graphics or ambient lighting color – it introduces actual mechanical adjustments to optimize performance. This improves the level of control and adaptability that allows greater traction, and stability in different driving conditions. It is possible to choose between five driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud and Electric (the latter exclusively for the e-Hybrid Plug-in version). Each mode is designed to optimize performance and control in different conditions. All modes integrate the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which works with ABS, traction control and engine management to ensure stability by adjusting power delivery and braking for maximum safety and precision. Automatic mode, standard on all powertrains, offers a balance between performance and comfort, using 90% of peak power with normal steering calibration and a balanced shift strategy, while retaining full ADAS system functionality.
Selec-Terrain options
Sport mode enhances response with 100% peak power, overboost, sport-tuned steering calibration and performance-focused ESP and shift settings. For slippery surfaces, Snow is provided which provides 80% of maximum power for smoother grip, combining sport handling settings with a normal shifting strategy and dedicated ESP calibration. When driving on rough or gravel terrain, Sand/Mud mode maximizes grip through 100% available power with overboost, sport steering and terrain-specific calibrations for ESP and gear shifting.
The complete homepage of the 16-inch infotainment system integrates all major functions, from media and navigation to telephone and climate control, into one intuitive interface. The instrument panel has a 10.25-inch digital display, and an optional Head-Up Display. New to the electric version is the One-Pedal Drive function, which allows the driver to control acceleration and deceleration using only the gas pedal. There is also the introduction of Level 2 autonomous driving as a standard feature.
A version with four-wheel drive will arrive later
The safety package includes, among other things, predictive adaptive cruise control (P-ACC) and semi-automatic lane change. P-ACC retains all the benefits of the traditional ACC Stop&Go system, but adds the ability to adjust speed to the road profile, speed limits and upcoming bends or roundabouts. The system automatically slows down before cornering and accelerates smoothly when the road flattens out. The semi-automatic lane change function, available between 70 and 180 km/h, assists the driver when changing lanes by slightly adjusting the steering to guide the vehicle into the desired lane, providing a safer and more peaceful driving experience.
Now, the 107 kW/145 hp 1.2 MHEV FWD is slated to go on sale for the Compass, which has a declared total range of up to 970 km. There is also a fully electric model equipped with a 74 kWh battery. It develops 157 kW/213 hp with a range of up to 500 km. A plug-in hybrid version of 165 kW/225 hp and two additional electric versions are expected later. The weaker one should develop 170 kW/231 hp, with front-wheel drive, while the more powerful 176 kW/375 hp version should come with four-wheel drive.
Prices start from 35,490 euros for the 1.2 MHEV version in the Altitude equipment level, while for the more special First Edition it is necessary to allocate 38,590 euros. The Summit version costs 39,190 euros. The initial electric model costs 45,490 euros in the Altitude level, or 47,490 euros in the First Edition version.
