Totally redesigned for the 2017 model year, what’s been called the New Compass was placed on sale right alongside the last of the prior Compass generation – expect the 2018 Compass to drop the "New" designation as Jeep phases out the last-generation model. The reworked compact crossover gets a more efficient engine and updated transmission choices, plus additional safety and connectivity features. For the first time, Jeep is offering a Compass Trailhawk, promising certain four-wheel-drive capabilities off-road.
What's New for 2017
Adding the Trailhawk trim level to the redesigned Compass may be the foremost change to occur during the 2017 model year. Sitting upon a new frame that uses more high-strength steel, the New Compass promises improved handling. A nine-speed automatic transmission goes into all-wheel-drive models. A panoramic sunroof is available for the first time. Also offered are LED taillights and the option of gloss black roof finish. A power tailgate is available. The reworked dashboard offers a choice of three touchscreen sizes, as well as the latest Uconnect infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Choosing Your Jeep New Compass
Beneath the hood, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder – borrowed from the Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, Jeep Cherokee, and Chrysler 200 – produces 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The prior Compass had a choice of 2.0- or 2.4-liter engine.
A six-speed manual transmission is available on the base Sport and mid-range Latitude. Front-drive models have the option of a six-speed automatic, while four-wheel-drive models get an optional nine-speed unit – the nine-speed is standard on the Limited and Trailhawk. Stop/start technology is standard with the six-speed automatic.
Fuel economy with front-drive and manual shift is EPA-estimated at 23 miles per gallon city, 32 highway, 26 combined. With the six-speed automatic or with four-wheel drive and a manual, the estimate is 22 city, 31 highway, and 25 combined. The nine-speed automatic drops the highway figure to 30 mpg.
Jeep promotes the traditionally “authentic” exterior styling of the New Compass, including its available dual-pane sunroof. As before, appearance details suggest the rugged attributes of the bigger Grand Cherokee, led by a bold front end. Each of the seven chromed grille slots sits in a gloss black field.
The new Trailhawk’s unique fascia allows steeper approach angles when off-roading. Its selective drive feature – available on other four-wheel-drive Compass models – includes a unique Rock mode and the 20:1 crawl ratio that's considered “class-exclusive.”
Active Drive full-time four-wheel drive is optional for Sport, Latitude, and Limited models. The Trailhawk version includes a low range function for ultimate traction. The Selec-Terrain system provides up to five modes: Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud; plus Rock on the Trailhawk, which also has hill descent control.
Newly available driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-path detection. Most safety and other options are available only on models above Sport level, including a power liftgate, sunroof, and navigation.
Four New Compass trim levels are offered:
When the New Compass arrives in spring of 2017, it goes on sale alongside the outgoing generation, simply called “Compass.” Both were considered 2017 models. True Jeep fans are likely to gravitate toward the Trailhawk, which exudes an appeal that transcends the Limited, though the price difference between the two is modest. Budget-minded buyers may settle for the Sport, but its equipment list is on the meager side.