New-look 2021 Jeep Compass makes debut
Slow-selling SUV gets makeover that introduces minor style tweaks, upgraded infotainment and new semi-autonomous cruiseA facelifted version of the 2021 Jeep Compass has been officially revealed for Europe and Australia, and it will introduce the US off-road brand's latest Level 2 semi-autonomous cruise control system.
Due on sale in Australia later in 2021, the refreshed small SUV looks identical to the updated Jeep Compass revealed for the Chinese market in late November 2020, presenting slimmer LED headlights, a new air intake below the seven-slot grille and redesigned fog lights.
The range-topping Jeep Compass Trailhawk also picks up a reshaped front bumper, new black and red decals on the bonnet and different alloy wheels.
It's inside the Jeep's cabin that you'll find the biggest changes. In comes a new 10.25-inch HD digital instrument cluster that can be combined with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch infotainment touch-screen that has been re-homed in the middle of the dash for better ergonomics.
Claimed to be up to five times faster than the previous system, the new infotainment set-up runs Jeep's UConnect 5 operating platform and is said to offer enhanced connectivity, voice recognition and 3D maps.
Redesigning the centre console has also liberated an extra 4.4 litres of extra storage space within the cabin.
The other significant tech improvement is that the 2021 Compass is the first Jeep to offer Level 2 autonomous driving aids. Traffic sign recognition, driver fatigue alert, lane-keep assist and an updated auto-braking (AEB) system that can detect cyclists have also been introduced.
Underneath the new LCD touch-screen, apart from the redesigned centre console, is a new gear shifter and wireless mobile phone charging pad. New front seats have been fitted as well.
It’s not yet clear if new engines will be offered in Australia or whether the range will carry over the existing 2.4-litre petrol (129kW/229Nm) and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel (125kW/350Nm) four-cylinder powerplants, driving through six-speed and nine-speed automatic transmissions respectively.
The Chinese-market Jeep Compass comes with the choice of two smaller turbo-petrol engines – a 1.3-litre unit with seven-speed dual-clutch auto and a 1.4-litre with nine-speed torque-converter auto.
All is expected to be revealed shortly, ahead of first local deliveries beginning in the coming months.
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