After Renegade, FCA introduced a boost to the segment of compact SUV models. The new 2020 Jeep Compass, opposed to the previous one, has considerably more chances in competition against the best-selling crossovers. Do you remember Jeep Compass from 2006? Not. It’s not unusual, you’re not the only one, because this model has gone completely unnoticed. But, after the takeover of Chrysler Group by Fiat, in 2009, Italian engineers made a number of improvements, and facelift from 2011 managed to get Compass out of anonymity.
Aesthetic and technical modifications lead the 2020 Jeep Compass to the recognizable stylistic elements of the prestigious Grand Cherokee. At first glance, especially up front, it is easy to find similarities. The new version of the compact model will change some things in the Limited (chrome frames of the grille), while the terrain variant Trailhawk, took on a more aggressive look and modified bumpers. As the company states, the new Compass will be able to climb the trees now.
2020 Jeep Compass Dimensions
By launching the 2020 Jeep Compass, FCA returns to the currently perhaps most competitive segment. The crossover will fill the vacant spot between Renegade (167 inches) and Cherokee (182 in). The first one was recently revisited, while Cherokee was redesigned at the beginning of last year. As a result, Compass is a visually appealing SUV, recognizable at first glance, with the aforementioned front grille with seven chrome slots on glossy black background. There are also traditional trapezoid arches of mudguards, protected with black matte plastics. From the profile, the massive chrome-plated lining at the top of the vehicle comes into the spotlight. Original set of lights covered with protective transparent plastics is revisited.
Our Compass is at the heart of Jeep’s offer. But its 172 inches of length inferior to most competitors (4 in less than VW Tiguan). The platform is shared with Renegade, although the body is extended for 8 centimeters. Well, the interior will gain extra room.
Interior
Italians have always had a fine feeling for the nice. The chic interior of the 2020 Jeep Compass confirms that they know when they want and how to impress the buyers. Aside from the ambiance, the dashboard takes on the stylish elements of other models. The 7-inch display (8.4 at higher levels) is surrounded by ventilation openings for the air, as well as the climate controls device. And the instrument panel shows some similarities with Cherokee. There are two classic gauges, slightly raised than before. In the background is a 7-inch screen with a trip computer (the background is a map of the world, with several original graphics solutions). Unfortunately, everything is covered with transparent plastic, which reflects and creates shadows.
Speaking of plastic, it’s quite satisfying, soft on the entire top of the console. Actually, it all seems beautiful and elegant. But if you ignore the name of the manufacturer, the thickness of the steering wheel could make you think this is some other company’s vehicle. Front seats have a lot of lacks. Power settings are available, but the bucket is somehow short, while the lateral reinforcements are insufficient in a more temperamental driving. On the other hand, the headrest is receiving praise. Apart from being perfectly designed, it always comes in contact with the head, regardless of the inclination of the backrest.
2020 Jeep Compass Engines
The new 2020 Jeep Compass will be available worldwide. That means a lot of options under the hood. The US buyers are getting the most powerful petrol engine available for the compact crossover. It is a 2.4-liter four-pot mill which makes 180 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Manual and automatic gearboxes are available, as well as front- and all-wheel drive. Maximum towing capacity stays at 2,000 pounds and the vehicle returns 26-27 mpg combined, depending on the configuration.
There are two new engines, one for the lovers of diesel powertrains, and one on the petrol side. Partnership with Nissan allows FCA to use a 1.3-liter drivetrain which will deliver either 150 or 180 hp. Also, the engine produces 270 Nm (200 lb-ft) of torque. The other new unit is a 1.6-liter MultiJet diesel. With the Fiat origins, as well as the 2.0 MultiJet with 140 and 170 hp, this engine has the highest torque in the class (320 Nm, 240 lb-ft). This is a bonus when it comes to pulling the 3,300-pound heavy Compass. Just for the record, it must be in combination with the front-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission only. All other drivetrains, including a 2.0 diesel and a more powerful 1.4-liter MultiAir with 170 hp, are using the 4×4 drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Price
The new 2020 Jeep Compass will keep the base price in the US. The MSRP will be $23,000. However, the cost will increase rapidly with extra options up to $35,000 for the Limited model. Probably the best value is Trailhawk version with off-road upgrades for around $30,000.
