Jeep’s Compass points the way

Jeep will start local production of its global mid-size SUV this June. The product packs quite a punch and the legacy laden brand should do Fiat Chrysler a world of good

WATCHING INDIAN WORKMEN put together the Jeep Compass at the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) factory in Ranjangaon, just 50km from Pune, is not shorn of pride. But there is also a sense of anxious hope of seeing this mid-size SUV from the iconic American brand becoming successful. Every other product to have come out of here has garnered only a lukewarm response. It is a legacy that’s best gotten rid of, and FCA’s best hopes lie with brand Jeep and the Compass.

THE BRAND STORY

Jeep has far more relevance and resonance with Indian consumers than any of the other FCA owned brands, Fiat included. First, there is the Jeep legacy that FCA has been taking advantage of from the word go. From associating with erstwhile princes who have always had an affinity for the brand, to showcasing their legendary off road prowess, Jeep is leaving no stone unturned to ensure it is seen as the number one SUV brand to aspire for. After all, Jeep’s credentials as the world’s first genuine SUV maker are impeccable. That Jeep is also doing relatively well in the global SUV arena of course helps.

THE COMPASS

The made-in-India and exported to the world (well, we will only be exporting to right-hand drive countries) Compass fuses the two design legacies, one as seen on the Wrangler and the other on the Grand Cherokee, seamlessly. The effect is rather eye catching. The interiors are nice and plush too. It’s a well put together SUV that should please consumers.

The Compass will be offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. You can take your pick from a 158bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir petrol engine mated either to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual clutch automatic or a 168bhp 2-litre turbo diesel with similar transmission options.

The 4x4 version of the Compass (it’ll be sold as a 4x2 as well) features the company’s Driveline Disconnect Technology (DDT), which automatically diverts power and torque only to the front wheels when it senses that there is no need to send them to the rear wheels. Jeep claims this improves fuel savings and makes for a smoother drive. Meanwhile, Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) keeps passengers cosseted from road shocks by varying the damping depending on the surface.

Keeping occupant safety as number one priority, the Compass will offer not less than 50 active and passive safety features.

Overall, Jeep has a great product in the Compass, one that should offer great value, provided FCA sorts out its pricing strategy. As a matter of fact top boss Kevin Flynn is pretty confident that buyers will not be disappointed when Jeep India announces prices later this year, insisting that the local production should allow for a competitive pricing, though at an estimated `25 lakh it won't be cheap.

“One of the important highlights of the Jeep Compass is that both its export as well as the India models will be identical in terms of build and quality,” said Flynn at the preview event. And from what we saw of the two units that were on display for us, there’s no reason to doubt his words. We have our fingers crossed, and are certain that FCA has its fingers crossed for the Jeep Compass is the best opportunity the company has had in years to make a mark.

Keeping with the Jeep ethos the Compass will be available with 4x4 and multi-terrain modes