Jeep Compass
Receives a mid-life makeover
In terms of sheer capability the Jeep Compass has always been held in high regard as far as compact SUVs go. Its achilles heel was always the relatively spartan interiors. Now of course the 2021 Jeep Compass is here, that builds on the original Compass’ rugged, off road credentials with a new fascia and much more tech on the inside. Countering that, Jeep has raised prices across the range that now leaves the top “S” model now parked squarely in Ford Endeavour territory. We took it out for a drive to see how much it has changed, and whether it justifies the price point.
Based on first impressions, the Compass is still instantly recognisable, but still has a distinct new presence. The fresh appeal comes thanks to the redesigned fascia, the new bumper and new take on Jeep’s iconic seven-slat grille. What we think is really interesting is the air intakes on the grille have been blocked out, air now flows in through horizontal air dams on the redesigned bumper. The headlamps too, get a slightly narrower profile and are now full LED units with LED projectors. The DRLs have been repositioned as well, now skirting the top of
the headlamp instead of the lower section. The chrome surrounds on the grille and the Jeep logo have been tweaked too for better aesthetic appeal with a gun-metal grey finish replacing the chrome on the previous version. While dual tone is very ‘in’ right now, Jeep’s dark-on-dark approach definitely looks distinguished. The interior though is where Jeep seems to have focussed the bulk of the changes on this update. The previous Compass’ cabin was best described as functional, but all of that changes with this facelift. From the big-screen infotainment system (10.1 inches) to a completely redesigned dashboard the Compass seems to have taken a full step forward. Replacing the rounded
air conditioning pods are horizontal slats that flow seamlessly into the dash. In addition, the materials are notably better with generous application of soft touch materials and a brushed metal piece separating the top half from the bottom. The new infotainment system gets a much cleaner user interface with wireless Android Auto and Apple Car play and is paired with a 9-speaker system from Alpine Audio. The IP too has gone digital, allowing the driver to choose from a list of preset themes for their instruments.
There is a long list of new features too. There are 8-way power adjustable front seats with adjustable lumbar support and two memory settings for the driver’s seat, there is a 360 degree reversing camera, a panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats (on the S variant).
Mechanically though, the 2021 Jeep Compass is identical to its predecessor. There’s a 2.0litre diesel (like the one on this test) and a 1.4litre turbo-petrol. The petrol and diesel are both offered with a 6-speed manual. Automatic options include a 9-speed automatic for the diesel and a 7-speed DCT for the petrol. While Jeep hasn’t made any claims on this, the suspension does seem moderately improved with much better dampingpg at low speeds.
FROM THE BIG-SCREEN INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM TO A COMPLETELY REDESIGNED DASHBOARD THE COMPASS SEEMS TO HAVE TAKEN A FULL STEP FORWARD