The Jeep Compass: Sophistication on the Road to Adventure The Jeep Compass debuts with a big refresh that sends the small SUV to new heights.
Navigating the fine line between the rugged capabilities that are part of Jeep’s DNA and modern enhancements,
the 2020 Compass moves the needle in the right direction on design, technology, as well as the on-road and off-road performance that makes it a Jeep.
Bold Exterior Evolution
Jeep hasn’t gone and reinvented the shape of the Compass, but they have made it better with meaningful tweaks.
At the front, its seven-slot grille has been reshaped with a modern edge and distinct boogie hooks while deep geometric patterns add a detailed visual depth.
The headlamps are thinner with LED technology as standard and a unique daytime running lights that form a familiar signature.
Wheels, fresh from the factory, come in 17 to 19 inches, depending on trim setup, with the Trailhawk getting its own all-terrain tires and underbody skid plates.
Cabin Refinement
The interior of the Compass is quantum leap.
Meanwhile, the dashboard has been overhauled and based around driver-focused architecture with the inclusion of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 11.4-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment touchscreen.
Material quality has shot up with real leather choices, feeling switches and contrasting stitching throughout the higher trims.
The console of the bridge deck improves storage options with zero stretch aesthetic at all.
Clever packaging, along with redesigned seating that provides increased support for longer trips and off-road adventures, combine to make the cabin feel roomier
than did the previous-gen version, despite the fact that outside dimensions have not changed.
Powertrain Options
The uni on Army’s focus You won’t be able to get the Hellcat motor in this retro-inspired Jeep, but its new hybrid powertrain sounds promising .
The base engine is still a 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder making 180 horsepower, but the big news is a new turbocharged 1.5-liter hybrid option.
That produces 210 combined hp and is expected to get better fuel economy (estimated 30 mpg combined). Each engine is matched to a 9-speed automatic that is willing to respond.
The 4×4 remains equipped with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain traction management system with Auto, Snow, Sand,
And Mud modes, while Trailhawk models up the rock-crawling ante with Rock mode and a 20:1 crawl ratio for hardcore off-roading.
Technology Suite
The Uconnect 5 system offers five times quicker processing than the previous generation, wireless Apple CarPlay
And Android Auto, over-the-air updates and personalized home screens. The optional 10-speaker Alpine premium audio offers excellent sound that fills the cabin.
Safety technology has also been more widely included, like standard automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist,
And blind-spot monitoring. New Highway Assist introduces Level 2 semi-autonomous driving to supported highways.
Pros:
Real off-road ability few other competitors can match
Much more inspiring cabin materials and layout
New hybrid power-drive choice with more power and efficiency
Includes all-around safety tech as standard
Uconnect 5 infotainment system is intuitive and reactive
Cons:
Base 2.4-liter engine can feel sluggish compared to some rivals
Price premium to mainstream compact SUV (based on a starting price of about $29,995)
Rear seat room is still cramped for adults on long trips
Cargo space lags behind some competitors, at 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat.
Ride can be little firm, particularly with larger wheels
Jeep Compass: Market Position
The Compass is product that fills the gap between traditional compact SUVs and premium offerings.
Yes, it’s more expensive than a conventional CR-V or RAV4, but it has real off-road capability and upscale luxury to warrant its placement.
For owners who are looking for the authentic Jeep spirit in a right-sized package, the updated Compass hits a sweet spot.
It walks the line – nay, dances – meets daily demands, and promises weekend adventures in a more refined line dress yet.
With the inclusion of hybrid technology demonstrates Jeep’s dedication to adapt with the market but not get away from the capability that embodies the brand.