2017 Jeep Compass officially revealed in Los Angeles
Although Fiat Chrysler Automobiles releases pictures and some info on the second-generation Jeep Compass a couple of weeks ago, the SUV made its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Jeep qualifies the Compass as a compact-sized vehicle, although like the current Compass, it’s a little smaller than competitors such as the Mazda CX-5, the Honda CR-V, the Ford Escape and the Nissan Rogue. Compared to the outgoing model, the 2017 Jeep Compass rides on a virtually identical wheelbase—although it’s built on a new platform—while length decreases from 4448 to 4394 millimetres. However, the SUV is larger by about 60 mm, which means increased shoulder and hip room.
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Only one engine will be offered in the new Compass, which will replace both the old Compass and the Patriot. Its 2.4-litre, four-cylinder engine will develop 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual transmission in base trims or a nine-speed automatic in 4x4 variants. Front-drive versions of the Compass will offer either the manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic, while fuel consumption is estimated at up to 7.8 L/100 km.
As is the case with many Jeep models, two four-wheel drivetrains will be available in the Compass. The Jeep Active Drive system features a disconnecting rear axle for improved fuel economy as well as the Jeep Selec-Terrain system with four drive modes (Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud). The Jeep Active Drive Low will equip the Compass Trailhawk, and includes a 20:1 crawl ratio in addition to a fifth drive mode called Rock. Both systems can send up to 100 percent of available power to any one wheel.
The Compass Trailhawk also features an increased ride height, skid plates, red-painted tow hooks, unique front and rear fascias, hill descent control and 17-inch off-road tires. According to FCA, it boasts a water fording capability of up to 19 inches and can tow up to 2000 lbs. (907 kg).
Four trim levels will be available in Canada, including Sport, North, Limited and the aforementioned Trailhawk. A Uconnect 5.0 infotainment system is standard, while the optional Uconnect 8.4 and 8.4 NAV integrate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other available features include a panoramic sunroof and a power tailgate.
The 2017 Jeep Compass will be built in four countries—Mexico, Brazil, China and India—for sale around the world. The new compact SUV should hit Canadian showrooms in a few months.