- Jeep
- Jeep Compass
- compact cars
- suv
- auto shows
- Los Angeles Auto Show
- 2016
- Affordable
The Compass has long been Jeep’s leader in the compact crossover segment, slotted between the Patriot and Cherokee in terms of pricing and functionality. Now, 10 years after its initial introduction, Jeep is releasing the second-generation Compass for the 2017 model year. The U.S.-spec Compass debuted at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show and proved the Grand Cherokee’s aesthetics work well in a smaller package.
An all-new design brings a welcomed exterior update to the crossover, along with an interior modeled after the Cherokee. A total of 17 powertrain options will be selectively available to the 100-plus global markets Jeep is selling to. Here in the U.S., however, the Compass is solely powered by a revised version of FCA’s 2.4-liter Tigershark turbo-four. Two automatics and a manual transmission are available, as is front-wheel drive and two versions of Jeep’s Active Drive 4WD system.
The Compass will come in Jeep’s wide range of trim levels, including the base Sport, the mid-grade Latitude, the luxury-minded Limited, and the off-road ready Trailhawk. This will mark the first time the Trailhawk trim will be offered on the Compass, telling of the Compass’ improved off-road prowess.
Jeep says the all-new Compass is capable of getting 30 mpg on the highway, though that’s likely with the FWD model. Production for the North American market will take place in Mexico. Sales will begin sometime in early 2017, though Jeep gave no official date during the L.A. Auto Show.
Jeep boss Mike Manley says, “Our all-new 2017 Jeep Compass enters an extremely important and growing segment worldwide, and does so with an unmatched list of attributes that includes benchmark 4x4 off-road capability, exceptional on-road driving dynamics, fuel-efficient powertrains, countless advanced technology and safety features, all wrapped in a premium, authentic Jeep design.”
With that, let’s dive into the all-new 2017 Jeep Compass.
Continue reading for the full review.
Exterior
The first-generation Compass has never been a good-looking crossover, especially before its facelift in 2011. Now, however, Jeep designers have given the compact crossover the family genes, with a Grand Cherokee-like front end, a Renegade-like D-pillar, and Cherokee-like wheel arches, complete with black molding to protect the paint from flying rocks off the tires. The Jeep’s look is very much matured for the second generation.
Getting down to the details, the front end wears a familiar face with a steeply racked lower fascia that helps with off-road approaches. The Trailhawk model gets the trim-specific red tow hooks down low, while those jeep’s with adaptive cruise control have a radar “eye” mounted next to the right tow hook. HID projector beam headlights, LED daytime running lights, and lower fog lights help eliminate darkness during a late-night trail ride. The Trailhawk also gets specific wheels wrapped in semi-aggressive all-terrain tires.
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Jeep designers have given the compact crossover the family genes, with a Grand Cherokee-like front end, a Renegade-like D-pillar, and Cherokee-like wheel arches, complete with black molding to protect the paint from flying rocks off the tires.
This “Trail Rated” trim also gets a unique lower fascia that vastly improves the approach angle to 30 degrees. The Trailhawk also boasts an inch taller ground clearance, which boosts its breakover angle to 24 degrees and the departure angle to 34 degrees. Impressively, the Compass Trailhawk can ford 19 inches of water. Underbody skid plates are added for protection as well.
All Compass models feature a blacked-out roof with black A-, B-, and C-pillars. The thick D-pillar is painted to match the body and likely creates a hefty blind spot. Thankfully blind spot monitoring will undoubtedly be available, if not standard equipment. Sadly, the Compass does not feature a removable roof like the Renegade, electing only to have an optional panoramic moonroof.
Around back, the 2017 Compass features a rather attractive rump, with clear-lens taillights and a deeply scalloped tailgate. Chrome accent strips near the D-pillars flank a smallish rear window, while brightwork inside the taillights further add character. A satin-chrome accent panel looking like a skid plate rides under the rear bumper, along with twin exhaust pipes on the Limited trim. Other models made do with a more subtle single exhaust outlet under the bumper. A distinctive character line runs from above the front fender, through the door handles, into the rear lights and meets just under the Jeep 
logo, creating the lip above the license plate. All told, the second-generation Compass is a far more handsome vehicle than the crossover it replaces.
Jeep says 65 percent of the Compass’ chassis is comprised of high-strength steel. This helps with chassis rigidity, suspension tuning, crash performance, and weight efficiency. The upper body section and frame are constructed as a single piece. A “liberal” use of structural adhesives is used to bond everything together, which helps with weight reduction, strength, and vibration reduction.
The Competition
Two of the Compass’ main competitors are the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. As for aesthetics, the all-new 2017 CR-V is a funky cute ‘ute that focuses way more on everyday practicality and on-road driving than anything else. It’s basically a lifted and taller Civic for folks who don’t like sedans. The new CR-V is a handsome crossover in its own right, but doesn’t have the same maturity as the new Compass.
The Ford Escape takes a more traditional approach to aesthetics with its new-for-2017 design. Its hexagonally shaped grille and reserved lines give it a clean appearance that’s neither stogie nor outlandish. Like the CR-V, the Escape is geared more for on-road driving with occasional forays into foul weather.
Exterior Comparison: Honda CR-V (left) - Ford Escape (Right) - Jeep Compass (center)
| Honda CR-V | Ford Escape | Jeep Compass | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase (inches) | 104.7 | 105.9 | TBA |
| Length (inches) | 180.6 | 178.1 | TBA |
| Height (2WD/AWD) (inches) | 66.1/66.5 | 66.3 | TBA |
| Width (inches) | 73.0 | 81.8 | TBA |
Interior
Jeep designers carried similar themes from other Jeep models into the Compass, especially from the Cherokee. The dash features a twin-barrel gauge cluster with a TFT center display measuring either 3.5- or 7.0-inches, depending on trim level. FCA’s 8.4-inch Uconnect system rides in the center stack, flanked by two air vents. The Uconnect 5.0 comes standard, however, and 7.0 system is found in mid-grade trims. Best of all, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are present across the board.
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The 2017 Compass’ interior is stylishly designed and smartly laid out.
HVAC controls ride low on the center stack and feature dual zone temperature settings. Below that, a USB port, Aux-input jack, and a 12-volt power outlet ride next to the AWD rotary knob. Automatic models feature a familiar shifter with manual shifting controls, followed by a trio of switches round out the center console. Those with a manual transmission get a six-speed shifter.
The Compass is available with two-tone leather seats with red contrast stitching. Black leather is also available. Push button starting, an auto start/stop system, an electronic parking brake, steering wheel controls, auto-up and auto-down front windows, power side mirrors, and voice controls are all present.
The second row seats offer a good amount of space for two passengers, or three in a pinch. FCA includes air vents back here, too, as well as what appears to be a 110-volt outlet. Cup holders in the door panels and the folding center armrest provide ample spots for drinks. The seats fold flat in a 60/40 style, allowing for a decent amount of cargo room.
All told, the 2017 Compass’ interior is stylishly designed and smartly laid out.
The Competition
The Honda’s funky exterior continues inside with a non-traditional dashboard layout. Thankfully the dual screens on the dash are gone, replaced by a more upscale system. The gauge cluster is also more grown-up thanks to a digital display. A dash-mounted shifter frees up space in the center console.
The Ford’s interior is a bit more dialed back, but still has a new-age theme. The new Sync3 system replaces its not-so-great predecessor and intuitive controls are all within easy reach. Both the Honda and Ford offer room for five. Both rear seats fold flat for larger cargo.
Interior Comparison: Honda CR-V (left) - Ford Escape (Right) - Jeep Compass (center)
| Honda CR-V | Ford Escape | Jeep Compass | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headroom (front/rear) (inches) | 40.1/39.2 | 39.9/39 | TBA |
| Legroom (front/rear) (inches) | 41.3/40.4 | 43.1/37.3 | TBA |
| Shoulder Room (front/rear) (inches) | 57.9/55.6 | 55.9/55.2 | TBA |
| Hiproom (front/rear) (inches) | 55.1/49.5 | 54.5/52.4 | TBA |
Drivetrain
The 2017 Jeep Compass might be all-new, but its powertrain is familiar. Thankfully familiar doesn’t mean carryover, as the 2.4-liter Tiger 
shark four-cylinder turbo enjoys a nice upgrade. The engine now features FCA’s MultiAir2 valvetrain technology with four valves per cylinder operated by an electro-hydraulically controlled variable valve timing system. The result is eight more horsepower and 10 more pound-feet of torque than before, totaling 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque.
Three transmission choices are available. The Compass comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission. It can be paired with either FWD or 4WD drivetrain systems. The manual has a 6.68 ratio spread and a 4.438 final-drive ratio. A low 18.4:1 first gear is designed to help with fast acceleration and good low-speed torque delivery. Next, a six-speed Aisin automatic is optional for FWD models. It has a 6.635 ratio spread and a 3.502 final-drive ratio. On higher trim levels, FCA’s nine-speed automatic transmission can be had on 4WD models.
The engine now features FCA’s MultiAir2 valvetrain technology with four valves per cylinder operated by an electro-hydraulically controlled variable valve timing system.
Speaking of 4WD systems, the Compass has two available: Active Drive and Active Drive Low. Most Compass models with 4WD will come with the Active Drive system. It’s a full-time 4WD system and delivers torque to the front wheels until slippage is detected. Power is then routed rearwards for additional traction. It can also deliver up to 100 percent of the engine’s power to a single wheel, should it be the only wheel with traction. All this takes place without the driver having to do anything.
The system does allow the driver to select one of four driving modes thanks to Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system. They include Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud. The driver can also lock the center differential, splitting the torque equally between the front and rear axles. This is ideal for severe weather conditions or slick terrain like a dirt or muddy road.
The Active Drive Low system is only available on the Compass Trailhawk trim. Like Active Drive, it provides power to the front wheels under normal conditions. When things start getting soupy, the system will automatically dish out torque to the wheels with the most grip, as detected by the lack of free wheel spin. What Active Drive Low adds is a low range gear set. Like a traditional 4WD system, low range provides increased torque for severe off-road situations. The Compass Trailhawk’s low range has a 20:1 ratio. Active Drive Low also brings a “rock” setting to the Selec-Terrain system.
The Compass rides on a fully independent suspension system. Segment-exclusivee Koni frequency damping struts help quell road imperfections while giving the Jeep a nimble on-road driving experience. Electric power steering is also said to aid the on-road driving feel. The Compass is rated to tow 2,000 pounds when equipped with a receiver hitch.
The Competition
Honda’s “Earth Dreams” technology is found under the CR-V’s hood. The base model comes with the carry-over 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It boasts direct fuel injection and dual overhead cams thanks variable valve timing thanks to Honda’s i-VTEC system. The naturally aspirated engine produces 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. A new 1.5-liter turbo-four debuts making 190 horsepower. A CVT sends power to the front wheels, or to all four wheels when AWD is selected.
The Ford comes with a standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost. It makes 180 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Upper trim levels make use of a new 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with an impressive 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. This EcoBoost makes the Escape the hot-rod of this trio – by far. Both engines can be had with AWD.
| Honda CR-V | Ford Escape | Jeep Compass | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | In-Line 4-Cylinder with Single-Scroll | 1.5L EcoBoost with Auto Start-Stop | 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 HP @ 5,600 rpm | 179 HP @ 6,000 RPM | 180 HP |
| Torque | 179 LB-FT @ 2,000-5,000 RPM | 177 LB-FT @ 2,500 RPM | 175 LB-FT |
| Weight | 3,358 Lbs | 3,552 Lbs | TBA |
| EPA city/highway/combined | TBA | 23/30/26 | TBA |
| Towing | 1,500 Lbs | 2,000 Lbs | 2,000 Lbs |
Prices
Official pricing has not been announced and won’t until just before the Compass’ on-sale date in the first quarter of 2017. Nevertheless, we can make an educated guess at what Jeep will charge for the second-gen crossover. The current 2016 model starts at $19,695. For the 2017 model, expect prices to start around $21,000. That puts the Compass $2,000 below the Cherokee and $3,000 more than the Renegade.
Competition
Honda CR-V
The undisputed heavyweight in the compact crossover segment is the Honda CR-V. It’s long been the hottest seller in the segment, offering a solid combination of on-road comfort, good ground clearance, available AWD, a roomy interior, and an attractive exterior. Now for 2017, the CR-V is all-new and is longer, wider, taller and has a more mature, upscale look.
The 2017 CR-V comes standard with the carryover 2.4-liter four-cylinder making 185 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The new 1.5-liter turbo-four from the Civic is now an optional engine on higher trim models. It makes 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. A CVT manages the power with both engines, sending it to the front wheels or to all four on AWD models.
Pricing starts around $26,000 for the 2016 model and we don’t expect Honda to change that for 2017, despite the update.
Learn more about the Honda CR-V here.
2017 Ford Escape
Ford has given the 2017 Escape a whole new look, moving it into a more mature class of vehicles. The hexagonal grille recalls the look of Ford’s other __cars and SUVs, while interior updates solidify the modern move. The Escape hasn’t lost its functionality though, as it offers seating for five, available AWD, and a trio of engine choices.
The engines include the base 2.5-liter four, the 1.5-liter EcoBoost, and the 2.0-liter EcoBoost. All three come mated to Ford’s six-speed automatic transmission. FWD is standard and AWD is optional.
Prices start around $27,700 for the base Escape, making it a more pricy option in the compact crossover segment.
Find out more about the 2017 Ford Escape here.
Conclusion
The updates Jeep has brought to the Compass have done wonders to its appearance and we’re betting its performance and drivability will also boast remarkable improvements. The Compass’ new appearance is far more mature and handsome. Gone is its mismatched angles and oddly-shaped D-pillar – all replaced with a baby Grand Cherokee styling language that pushed the envelope for the segment. Inside, the story is the same thanks to a well-designed instrument panel that’s filled with the latest technology and convenience features. Top that off with an available Trailhawk trim package that pushes the Compass far past any of its competitors in terms of off-road performance.
This Jeep will surely live up to its heritage.
We’re highly excited about the all-new 2017 Jeep Compass and what it means for the mid-size crossover segment. One thing is for sure – Honda and Ford better watch out.
- Smart, classy new styling
- Vastly improved interior
- Wide range of powertrains for global market
- U.S.-spec skips diesel option
Photo Credit: Jeep
Press Release
The all-new 2017 Jeep® Compass expands the brand’s global reach with an unmatched combination of attributes that includes legendary and best-in-class 4x4 off-road capability, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, premium and authentic Jeep design, superior on-road driving dynamics, open-air freedom, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology offerings.
A truly global all-new compact SUV, the 2017 Jeep Compass will be manufactured in Brazil, China, Mexico and India, for consumers in more than 100 countries around the world.
“Our all-new 2017 Jeep Compass enters an extremely important and growing segment worldwide, and does so with an unmatched list of attributes that includes benchmark 4x4 off-road capability, exceptional on-road driving dynamics, fuel-efficient powertrains, countless advanced technology and safety features, all wrapped in a premium, authentic Jeep design,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “Built around the world for customers everywhere, Jeep Compass raises the bar in the compact-SUV segment.”
The 2017 Jeep Compass is available in four different trim configurations: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk.
Best-in-class off-road capability with two leading 4x4 systems
The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass delivers best-in-class off-road capability, courtesy of two advanced, intelligent 4x4 systems, each of which can send 100 percent of available torque to any one wheel:
Jeep Active Drive – full-time 4x4 system
Jeep Active Drive Low – class-exclusive full-time 4x4 system with 20:1 crawl ratio
Both Jeep Active Drive and Active Drive Low 4x4 systems include the Jeep Selec-Terrain system, providing up to five modes (Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud modes, plus exclusive Rock mode on the Trailhawk model) for the best four-wheel-drive performance on- or off-road and in any weather condition. For even greater Trail Rated off-road capability, Selec-Terrain includes Selec-Speed Control with Hill-descent Control on Trailhawk models.
Compass features a disconnecting rear axle and power take-off unit (PTU), in order to provide 4x4 models with enhanced fuel economy. Jeep Active Drive and Active Drive Low 4x4 systems instantly engage when 4x4 traction is needed.
Trail Rated Jeep Compass Trailhawk
For those who seek adventure off the beaten path, the Compass Trailhawk model delivers best-in-class Trail Rated 4x4 capability with:
Standard Jeep Active Drive Low 4x4 20:1 crawl ratio
Selec-Terrain with exclusive Rock mode
Increased ride height of almost one inch, skid plates and Jeep signature red front and rear tow hooks
Unique fascias with 30-degree approach angle, 24-degree breakover angle and a 34-degree departure angle
Hill-descent Control
Aggressive 17-inch off-road tires
Up to 19 inches of water fording
Up to 2,000-lbs. towing capability
Superior on-road driving dynamics
FCA’s “small wide architecture,” a fully independent suspension, segment-exclusive Koni frequency damping front-and-rear-strut system, and precise electric power steering combine to deliver superior on-road driving dynamics in the all-new 2017 Jeep Compass.
Compass boasts a rigid foundation. The upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit for a stiff and more mass-efficient structure, and it is designed and built with an extensive use of high-strength steel and liberal use of structural adhesives. More than 65 percent high-strength steel is used for maximizing vehicle dynamics and crash performance while optimizing weight efficiency.
Advanced fuel-efficient powertrains
A total of five engines – three gasoline and two diesel – will be offered, depending on the market worldwide. In North America, the proven, fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine will power the Compass, delivering up to 30 miles per gallon (mpg).
2.4-liter Tigershark engine with MultiAir2
Efficiency and refinement also are hallmarks of FCA‘s 16-valve, 2.4-liter Tigershark I-4 engine with the MultiAir2 electro-hydraulic, fully variable valve-actuation system. The advanced technology engine produces 180 horsepower, 175 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to the choice of three transmissions in North America:
Class-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission for 4x4 models
Six-speed manual transmission (4x2 and 4x4 models)
Aisin six-speed automatic transmission for 4x2 Compass models
Class-exclusive nine-speed transmission
The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass is the only compact SUV to offer a nine-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to optimize engine output and for aggressive launches and smooth, efficient power delivery at highway speeds. The nine-speed transmission is standard on all Jeep Compass 4x4 models.
Six-speed manual transmission
All-new 2017 Jeep Compass 4x2 and 4x4 models are equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission. This proven transmission features a 6.68 ratio spread and a 4.438 final-drive ratio for fuel efficiency at faster speeds. Thanks to its first-gear launch ratio of 18.4:1, the gearbox delivers quick acceleration with smooth, precise shift quality.
Six-speed automatic transmission
Available on Jeep Compass 4x2 models, the Gen III six-speed automatic transmission features a 6.635 ratio spread and a 3.502 final-drive ratio for a responsive, enjoyable drive.
Authentic Jeep design with premium features and open-air freedom
The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass features a premium, sculptural design aesthetic. The exterior design is expressive and emotional with a wide stance and exceptional glass-to-wheel proportions. The all-new compact SUV is immediately recognizable as a Jeep with its distinctive traditional Jeep design cues. Jeep designers gave the legendary seven-slot grille a fresh look by setting each of the individual chrome slots in a Gloss Black field. Headlamp bezels featuring a black outline add personality and attitude to the front of the all-new Jeep Compass.
The exterior of the 2017 Jeep Compass features a traditional clamshell hood with a double break line and center bulge.
A fast, dramatic roofline and muscular fenders and shoulders create a stunning profile. The available Gloss Black painted roof adds a unique, premium appearance in the compact SUV segment. An available dual-pane sunroof provides the largest opening possible, connecting Jeep drivers and passengers to the outdoors and open-air freedom.
A standout feature of the rear of the Compass is its unique LED tail lamps. Slim and rectangular in shape, the tail lamps flow into the liftgate for a commanding yet premium appearance instantly recognizable as a Jeep Compass on the road or trail.
For added consumer convenience, the 2017 Jeep Compass features a power liftgate helping ease cargo storage.
Upscale interior design boasts premium features and technology
The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass interior design showcases a premium interior highlighted by sculptural surface elements and precise technical detail.
The trapezoidal center stack bezel is a characteristic Jeep design cue and sports a color and finish that complements the interior choice. The center stack houses the 5.0-, 7.0- or 8.4-inch touchscreen displays. The center console neatly integrates the functional features of the Jeep Compass, including gear-shift selection, Selec-Terrain controls, electronic parking break, engine stop-start (ESS) controls, climate and volume control knobs, and easily accessible media charging and connectivity ports within the cubby bin.
The driver’s cockpit is thoughtfully designed and features a 3.5- or 7-inch LED driver information display (DID) instrument cluster. The available full-color 7-inch DID – the largest in the segment – displays information that the driver may configure for easier access while driving. The Jeep steering wheel with integrated audio, voice and speed controls enables drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and attention focused on the road ahead.
Clever and thoughtfully designed storage solutions are abound throughout the cabin, including a stylish mesh side pocket in the front passenger footwell that can hold a notebook or tablet device, and an inventive multi-level rear cargo floor.
Advanced technology that delivers thorough use of all-new infotainment systems
The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass offers four new Uconnect systems for North America (Uconnect 5.0, 7.0, 8.4 and 8.4NAV), delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features that drivers and passengers desire, including the segment’s largest full-color LED instrument cluster.
The new lineup includes easy-to-use features, enhanced processing power, faster startup times and touchscreens that display high-resolution graphics.
New Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features
The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass is equipped with the Uconnect 7.0, 8.4 or 8.4NAV systems and includes the new Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features.
Apple CarPlay
Seamlessly integrates an iPhone with the vehicle’s built-in display and controls in addition to featuring Siri Voice control. iPhone-equipped drivers can make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, and receive voice-guided navigation optimized for traffic conditions and more, while staying focused on the road.
Android Auto
System shares useful information when driving and makes it easy to access the best of Google technology. Featuring Google Maps with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance; on-demand access to 30 million songs with Google Play Music; plus the ability to place phone calls or send and receive messages while keeping hands on the wheel; and ask Google search any question. Android Auto also makes it easy to access popular apps and content from the Uconnect system’s touchscreen.
Drivers and passengers also have an abundance of infotainment features at their fingertips with SiriusXM Radio, Travel Link, Traffic and Guardian Connected Services that provide real-time information.
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