Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass uses a 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine that produces 168 bhp and 350 Nm. It is available with a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Front-wheel drive is available across the range, while 4x4 is offered with the higher automatic variants.

2.0-Litre Diesel Engine

The Compass diesel engine has strong low- and mid-range torque, which makes it easy to drive in traffic and on highways. It does not feel particularly sporty, but there is enough power for quick overtakes and long-distance driving.

The 6-speed manual has reasonably light controls and short gear throws, making it easier to use in everyday traffic. The 9-speed automatic is more convenient and shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes change gears more often than expected at low speeds.

City Driving

The Compass feels comfortable in the city with its strong low-end torque. It can move through traffic without needing frequent gear changes, especially with the automatic gearbox.

The steering is also manageable at lower speeds, making tight turns and parking easier than the SUV's size might suggest. The automatic is the better choice if most of your driving is in heavy traffic.

Highway Performance

The diesel engine works well on highways and can comfortably maintain high cruising speeds. There is enough power for overtaking, although the automatic gearbox can take a moment to drop a gear when you suddenly ask for more power at lower speeds.

The Compass also feels stable at higher speeds, with limited body movement and a planted feel. This is one of the areas where the SUV stands out from some of its more comfort-focused rivals.

4x4 Capability

The Compass is one of the few SUVs in this price range to offer a proper 4x4 setup. It is available with the 9-speed automatic on the higher variants and gets terrain modes designed for different surfaces.

The 4x4 system, high ground clearance and well-controlled suspension make the Compass suitable for rough roads, loose surfaces and light off-roading. It is a useful feature for buyers who regularly travel beyond paved roads rather than something offered only for appearance. But do note that it is not an extreme off-roader like the Thar or Jimny. 

Ride & Handling

The Compass has a comfortable suspension setup that handles potholes, broken roads and uneven surfaces well. Sharp bumps can still make some noise inside the cabin, but the suspension generally keeps passengers comfortable.

Handling is one of its biggest strengths. The Compass stays fairly flat through corners and feels stable even when driven quickly. The steering is also well weighted, making the SUV enjoyable to drive on winding roads.a

The Compass range is built around the Sport, Longitude, Limited and Model S variants, with special editions such as the Trail and Track Editions adding different styling and equipment.

Compass Sport

The Sport is the entry point into the Compass range. It gets 17-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic AC and rear AC vents.

It misses some of the premium features found higher up the range, but makes sense for buyers who mainly want the Compass's build quality, driving experience and SUV design at the lowest possible price.

Compass Longitude

The Longitude adds useful everyday features over the Sport, including a larger driver display, automatic climate control, cruise control on automatic variants, push-button start and improved interior trim.

It is a better option if you want more convenience without moving too far up the price range.

Compass Longitude (O)

The Longitude (O) adds a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging and connected-car features. 

It is one of the more sensible variants if you want a better-equipped Compass without paying for all the features of the top versions.

Compass Limited (O)

The Limited (O) gets a more premium exterior with 18-inch alloy wheels and additional chrome detailing. Inside, it gets leatherette seats, a powered driver's seat with memory, a panoramic sunroof and rain-sensing wipers.

This is also where the six-airbag setup becomes available, making it a stronger choice for buyers who want more equipment and a higher level of safety. 

Compass Model S (O)

The Model S (O) is the top regular variant and adds the more premium equipment. It gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.2-inch digital driver's display, ventilated powered front seats, a 9-speaker Alpine audio system and a 360-degree camera.

It is also the main variant to consider if you want the Compass with 4x4, as the 4x4 automatic version is offered here.

Compass Trail Edition

The Trail Edition is based on the Longitude (O) and adds special exterior detailing aimed at giving the Compass a more rugged appearance. It is available with manual and automatic transmissions.

The Trail Edition makes sense mainly for buyers who like the additional styling, as its mechanical setup remains familiar.

Compass Track Edition

The Track Edition is based on the higher Model S and adds unique exterior details along with a more premium cabin treatment. It gets features such as the 10.1-inch touchscreen, Alpine audio system, panoramic sunroof and ventilated powered seats.

It is available with manual and automatic options, including a 4x4 automatic version.

Which Jeep Compass Variant Should You Buy?

• Sport: Best for buyers who want the Compass at the lowest price.
• Longitude (O): Best balance of features and price.
• Limited (O): Best for buyers who want a more premium cabin and six airbags.
• Model S (O): Best for buyers who want the full feature package and 4x4.
• Trail Edition: Best if you want the extra rugged styling.
• Track Edition: Best if you want the top-spec equipment with special-edition styling.

The Jeep Compass mileage is rated at around 17.1 kmpl for the front-wheel-drive versions, while the 4x4 automatic variants are rated at around 14.9 kmpl. In real-world use, the figures depend heavily on traffic, driving style and road conditions.

In city driving, the Compass automatic can return around 10 kmpl, while highway efficiency can be around 11-13 kmpl. The 4x4 version uses more fuel because of its heavier drivetrain and additional mechanical components.

For buyers who mainly drive in the city, the Compass should not be considered a fuel-efficiency-focused SUV. Its diesel engine makes more sense for people who also do regular highway driving.

The Compass has an upright and traditional SUV shape, with the familiar Jeep design giving it a strong road presence. While the styling is no longer as fresh as some newer rivals, it has aged reasonably well.

Front Profile

The front gets Jeep's signature seven-slot grille between LED headlamps and a wide bumper. The squared-off design and raised bonnet give the Compass a solid appearance.

Lower variants use simpler lighting and wheel designs, while the higher versions get projector LED headlamps and larger alloy wheels.

Side Profile

From the side, the Compass has a classic SUV shape with squared wheel arches, roof rails and a relatively large glass area. The higher variants get 18-inch alloy wheels, while lower variants use 17-inch wheels.

The upright proportions also help give the Compass a more substantial look despite it being smaller than some of its rivals.

Rear Profile

The rear is more understated than the front. LED tail lamps, a roof spoiler and variant-specific badging keep things neat, but the overall design has not changed much in recent years.

Jeep Compass Colours

The Compass is offered in several colours, including Pearl White, Brilliant Black, Exotica Red, Galaxy Blue, Grigio Magnesio Grey, Silvery Moon and Techno Metallic Green, with dual-tone roof options available on selected variants. Do note that availability may vary, so it's best to check with your local dealer. 

The Compass has a solid and well-built cabin. The dashboard design is slightly busy compared with newer SUVs, but the materials feel good and the physical controls are easy to use.

Front Row

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, making the Compass suitable for long drives. Higher variants get powered and ventilated front seats, while the steering wheel gets both tilt and telescopic adjustment. Visibility is not perfect because of the thick A-pillars, but the driving position itself is easy to get comfortable in.

Rear Seat Space

The rear bench is comfortable for two adults, with good enough legroom and under-thigh support. However, three adults will feel tight, especially on longer journeys. Headroom is also not the best for taller passengers, and the raised centre section limits the space available for the middle passenger's feet.

Boot Space & Storage

The Compass offers around 438 litres of boot space, which is enough for everyday luggage and family use. The rear seats fold in a 60:40 split when more space is required. The boot has a relatively high loading lip, so lifting heavier luggage in and out can take some effort. 

Features & Technology

The Jeep Compass gets a good set of features, especially on the higher variants. The 10.1-inch touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 10.2-inch digital driver's display shows speed, trip details and other useful information. Dual-zone climate control, wireless charging and connected-car features also make daily use easier.

Higher variants get ventilated front seats, powered front seats with memory, a panoramic sunroof and a 9-speaker Alpine sound system. Features such as rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming IRVM are also useful on longer drives.

The 360-degree camera helps when parking or driving through tight spaces by giving a view around the car. However, its camera quality is not as clear as some newer rivals.

The Jeep Compass has a decent safety base as well. The older-generation Compass received a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, although the current India-spec model has not been tested yet. The Compass also gets a solid build and useful safety features, but it misses the Level 2 ADAS systems offered by some newer rivals.

Passive Safety

The Compass gets ABS with EBD, which helps keep the car under control during hard braking. ESC and traction control help reduce the chance of the SUV losing grip, while hill-start assist makes it easier to move off on slopes without rolling backwards. ISOFIX mounts make it easier to fit compatible child seats securely, while airbags provide added protection in a crash.

Six airbags are available on higher variants, while the electronic parking brake, rear parking sensors and reverse camera make everyday driving and parking easier.

Active Safety

The Compass gets electronic stability control, traction control and electronic roll mitigation to help the SUV stay stable when grip is low or during sudden steering inputs. The reverse camera and parking sensors are useful in tight parking spaces and while reversing.

The top variants add a 360-degree camera, which gives the driver a better view around the SUV when parking or moving through narrow spaces. However, the Compass does not get Level 2 ADAS, so features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are missing.

Jeep Compass Safety Equipment by Variant

Safety equipment varies by variant, with the higher trims adding more airbags and camera-based parking assistance. 

The Jeep Compass sits a little differently from many mainstream SUVs. It is smaller than some rivals and can be more expensive, but its strong build, handling and 4x4 capability help it stand out. 

Its main alternatives include the Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV 7XO and MG Hector. The XUV 7XO stands out for space, features and value, while the Harrier offers a larger cabin at a lower price. The Hector is a good option for buyers who want more space, comfort and features. 

Jeep Compass vs Tata Harrier

The Tata Harrier offers more space, a bigger cabin and more features for the money. It is a better choice if comfort, space and value are your main priorities.

The Compass is smaller but handles better and feels more solid on the road. It also gets a 4x4 option, which the Harrier does not.

Jeep Compass vs Mahindra XUV 7XO

The Mahindra XUV 7XO offers more space, more features and the option of seven seats. It also has a more powerful petrol engine, giving buyers more choice.

The Compass is better suited to buyers who want a smaller SUV with good handling, a diesel engine and 4x4 capability.

Jeep Compass vs MG Hector

The MG Hector is a better choice if you want a spacious cabin, comfortable rear seats and plenty of features. It works well as a family SUV, especially for buyers who value space and comfort.

The Compass is more enjoyable to drive and is more rugged. Its 4x4 option also makes it better suited to rough roads and light off-roading.

Which One Should You Pick?

• Jeep Compass: Choose it for strong build quality, good handling and 4x4 capability.
• Tata Harrier: Choose it for more space, features and better value.
• Mahindra XUV 7XO: Choose it for more features, stronger performance and seven-seat practicality.
• MG Hector: Choose it for a spacious cabin, comfortable rear seats and plenty of features.

As is the case with any vehicle, even the Jeep Compass comes with its share of advantages and some shortcomings. Therefore, as a potential buyer, one should carefully analyze both attributes before making a final purchase decision. 

The Jeep Compass is a good fit for buyers who enjoy driving and want a solid, capable SUV. However, its price and limited engine choice may make some rivals more appealing. 

The Jeep Compass makes the most sense if you care more about driving, build quality and off-road ability than having the biggest cabin or the most features. It feels solid on the road, handles well and remains comfortable on long drives.

The 2.0-litre diesel engine has enough power for daily use and highway driving. The 9-speed automatic is a good choice if you spend a lot of time in traffic, while the 4x4 version makes more sense if you regularly drive on rough or unpaved roads.

The Longitude (O) is a sensible choice for most buyers as it delivers the essentials without pushing the price too much. The Limited (O) adds more comfort features, while the Model S (O) is the one to consider if you want the 4x4 system and the higher-end equipment.

However, the Compass is not the best choice if you want maximum space, more features for your money or a petrol engine. The Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV 7XO and MG Hector offer stronger value in these areas. The Compass is worth paying extra for mainly if you prefer its driving feel, solid build and 4x4 capability.

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