Review: 2021 Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass is both made for the city and the outdoors. With it's rugged, cool looks and range of capabilities, it stands out in the highly competitive small SUV market. It really is the best of both worlds, in a completely new package.

INITIAL IMPRESSION

Where some mid-life facelifts just give a car a smaller grill or differently shaped headlights, nothing could be further from the truth with the new Jeep Compass. 

On both the outside and inside, this looks like a new vehicle, yet it stands on the same platform. The front is sharper and more streamlined, the back is a little more rounded, and with the interior, you immediately notice the Compass is now ready for 2022 with a big10" infotainment screen and customised dash!

DRIVEABILITY

The biggest plus of the Jeep Compass is that it's a rugged looking small SUV that appeals to 4x4 drivers, and also works around the city. Instead of slugging around a huge 4WD, you can go anywhere in the Compass and still manage to find a parking spot on a busy Friday night. The 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol delivers 129kW and 229Nm and that's enough power to get around anywhere. The six-speed automatic gearbox is smooth and gets a combined fuel consumption of 7.9L/100km.

Unfortunately, we didn't get to use our 4x4 Active Drive too much, however with Jeep's off-road heritage, you can rest assured it will get you wherever you need to go. Whether you drive the Compass on or off road, it feels stable and sturdy. Thanks to plenty of safety features, it has a strong 5-star ANCAP safety rating and now also features new equipment like traffic sign recognition, intelligent speed assistance and adaptive cruise control (with stop-go functionality). Autonomous emergency braking, rear-cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring previously available on the prior model, are now complimented by lane departure warning and active lane-keep assistance.

LIVEABILITY

No matter which variant of the Jeep Compass you choose, the inside is a compelling place to be. The leather in the S-Limited is definitely a plus, with the seats equally comfortable and supportive in the other models. The upgrade from a 8.4-inch to a massive 10.25-inch touchscreen, that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, also makes the appearance more modern and easily sets the Compass apart from the competition in regards to technology.

What all models have in common is the copious amounts of storage space. There are (very American) big cupholders in the doors and centre console, while the armrest also hides a storage box. There is storage on the side of the gearbox and in the Launch Edition, you even get a storage compartment under the passenger seat which is perfect for dirty shoes or wet clothes. And nobody knows that it's there, so it's also a perfect hiding spot for valuables. Unfortunately, other models that come with powered seats, don't have this handy storage nook.

There is plenty of space for 5 adults, who can also make use of the multitude of USB-ports and the Compass now boosts wireless charging for your mobile phone. It's all very spacious, proven by the equally large, 438 litre boot space. Underneath you’ll find a 'space saver' spare mounted tyre on a 17-inch steel wheel to get you home in case of emergencies.

COST

The Jeep Compass starts just over $40k for the Launch Edition (4x2 model), but that one will only be available for a limited time and doesn't feature a low-range option for off roading.

At this moment the only other model available is the S-Limited we tested, which sits just over $50k. For that price you'll get 19-inch Alloy Wheels, an Alpine 9 Speaker Premium Audio System and all the safety tech available. Plus you'll be driving a capable 4WD with Jeep Active Drive 4x4 and Selec-Terrain System.

You can opt for the premium package for S-Limited that includes heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, surround-view camera and dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Later in 2021, a Limited version will arrive in the showroom for just under $50k, but you won't get the big rims, body colour accents or the speakers.

Finally at the same time you'll be able to get the top-of-the-line Trailhawk version for around $55k, the only model with a 2.0L diesel engine and all the gear to get you set for an off-road adventure - Falken All-Season Tyres, Front Red Tow Hooks, Underbody Skid Plates and a different axle ratio.

All new Compass models come with capped price servicing during the 5-year/100,000km warranty and lifetime roadside assistance, plus Jeep's legendary 'There and Back' guarantee and 'Jeep Wave' commitment.

CONCLUSION

The Jeep Compass is a hip, flashy medium SUV that ticks all the boxes. You can choose the Compass that fits you, which means you don't have to make any compromises. The fact that you can go for supreme luxury or proper off road capabilities in the shape of a good looking and spacious SUV genuinely make the Compass a perfect companion for every use.