Jeep Compass : I’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel of SUVs across India’s chaotic roads, from Delhi’s pothole-ridden streets to the winding highways up to the hills.
The Jeep Compass has always stood out—not just for its rugged charm, but for that unshakeable confidence it instills in the driver.
Even as 2026 rolls in, with whispers of no major overhaul coming our way, this American icon refuses to fade into the background.
Design That Turns Heads
You can’t miss a Compass on the road. Its boxy stance, those iconic seven-slat grille, and squared-off wheel arches scream adventure without trying too hard.
The latest Track Edition amps up the drama with bold, track-inspired livery and an exclusive badge that makes it look like it’s ready to conquer a rally stage.
Inside, it’s a plush haven. Soft-touch materials wrap the dashboard, ambient lighting sets the mood at night, and the dual-pane panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with light—perfect for those long family drives.
The seats, upholstered in premium leather with unique accents, hug you just right, making every journey feel special. I’ve seen owners rave about how it feels like a cockpit upgrade from older models.
Power and Handling Mastery
Fire up the 2.0-litre Multijet II turbo-diesel, and you’re greeted with 170hp and a muscular 350Nm of torque.
Paired with either a slick 6-speed manual or the refined 9-speed automatic, it surges ahead effortlessly—0-100kmph in under 10 seconds for the auto.
On highways, the cruise control and stable chassis make overtaking a breeze, while the FSD suspension soaks up bumps like a champ.
Off-road? This is where Jeep shines. With up to 200mm ground clearance, all-season tyres, and dynamic steering torque, it tackles slushy monsoons or rocky trails without breaking a sweat.
Water wading depth hits 470mm, and the 4×4 system in higher trims distributes power intelligently. I’ve pushed mine through muddy backroads near Rishikesh, and it never flinched.
Tech and Comfort Loaded
The 10.1-inch touchscreen runs UConnect 5 smoothly, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even Alexa integration.
OTA updates keep it fresh, and the 10.25-inch digital cluster displays everything from nav to tyre pressure.
Rear passengers get decent space, though it’s snugger than rivals like the XUV700—fine for two adults, but plan ahead for three.
Wireless charging, powered tailgate, and ventilated front seats add luxury. The Alpine audio with subwoofer thumps hard on Bollywood tracks during traffic jams.
Boot space at 550 litres swallows weekend luggage easily, and 60/40 split-folds expand it further.
Safety First, Always
Six airbags as standard, including curtains and side-mounted ones, give peace of mind. ESC, ABS with rain brake support, electronic roll mitigation, and a 360-degree camera make it a fortress.
Globally, it bags 5-star Euro NCAP ratings, and the India-spec model feels just as solid—stable at high speeds, planted over undulations. No Bharat NCAP yet, but owner stories confirm its toughness.
Pricing and Ownership Reality
In Delhi, expect on-road prices from ₹21 lakh for base Sport MT to ₹36 lakh for top Model S 4×4 AT. The Track Edition starts at ₹25.41 lakh ex-showroom, with perks like 7-year warranty packages under Confidence 7.
Service costs sting a bit higher than Hyundai or Kia, but Jeep’s network is improving. Resale holds decent if maintained well.
Owners gripe about minor rattles in older units and pricey spares, but praise the ride quality and reliability over 1 lakh km. Fuel efficiency dips in city crawls to 14kmpl, but highways redeem it.
Standing Tall Against Rivals
In a sea of Tata Harriers, Mahindra XUV700s, and Hyundai Tucsons, the Compass wins on premium feel and off-road prowess. It’s pricier, yes, but that Jeep badge and driving thrill are addictive.
If you crave space, look elsewhere; for style, safety, and go-anywhere ability, it’s unmatched.
As 2026 brings no new-gen drama—thanks to Stellantis skipping India’s high-cost platform—the current Compass gets tweaks to stay relevant. Discounts and special editions keep it enticing.
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Jeep Compass Why Still Makes Sense
Bottom line: If you’re upgrading from a Creta or Sonet and want that premium, rugged vibe without going full Thar, the Compass delivers.
Test drive one this Valentine’s weekend—feel the torque pull you into its world. It’s not perfect, but in India’s diverse terrain, few match its charisma