2017 Jeep Compass Replaces Two Models With One: Comments

[William Maley]

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Jeep's compact crossovers, the Compass and Patriot, were never the vehicles they could have been. The poor powertrains, questionable interiors, and lack of features kept them well behind the pack. Yet, these two models were big sellers, but that might due to big discounts on offer. Earlier this year, Jeep unveiled the replacement for the two models, the 2017 Compass which appears to be a big improvement.

The Compass' new design is a mashup of the larger Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The front end features the iconic seven-slot grille and a similar headlight design to the Grand Cherokee. The side profile shows off sculpting along the doors and bulging fenders. In terms of size, the new Compass is about two inches shorter than the outgoing Compass/Patriot, but is about the same in terms of width and height. 

The interior is a huge step forward with ideas taken from the Renegade and Cherokee. Three UConnect systems will be offer, ranging in size from 5 to 8.4 inches. Interestingly, the Compass offers more cargo space than the larger Cherokee. With the rear seats up, the Compass offers 27 cubic feet of space vs the 25 found in the Cherokee. Fold the rear seats and Compass offers five more cubic feet than the Cherokee (60 vs. 55).

There will be only engine on offer for the U.S.-Spec Compass; the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual comes standard for either front-wheel or 4x4 models. Automatics are available as an option; six-speeds for front-wheel drive models and nine-speeds for 4x4 models. Most Compass 4x4 models will get Jeep Active Drive which acts like most all-wheel drive systems - sending power to the front wheels until there is a loss of traction and power is sent to the rear wheels. Opt for the Compass Trailhawk and you'll get Active Drive Low - a full-time 4x4 system with a 20:1 crawl ratio. Both systems come with Jeep's Selec-Terrain that adjust various powertrain and 4x4 systems to whatever terrain you find yourself on.

No word on when the Compass will go on sale.

Source: Jeep
Press Release is on Page 2

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2017 Jeep® Compass: An all-new global compact SUV delivering unsurpassed 4x4 capability, world-class on-road driving dynamics, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains and premium styling

• Most capable compact SUV ever with the most advanced 4x4 systems in its class
  • Jeep® Active Drive
  • Jeep Active Drive Low
• Premium, distinguished, authentic Jeep exterior styling includes open-air dual-pane sunroof
• Interior includes sculptured forms, high-quality materials and state-of-the-art technology
• FCA’s “small wide 4x4 architecture” combines best-in-class capability with exceptional on-road driving dynamics
• 17 fuel-efficient powertrain options for markets around the world
• North American models powered by the fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Tigershark, delivering up to 30 miles per gallon (mpg)
  • Engine stop-start (ESS) results in increased fuel efficiency
• Choice of three transmissions:
  • Class-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission for 4x4 models
  • Six-speed automatic transmission for 4x2 models
  • Six-speed manual transmission for 4x2 and 4x4 models
• Fourth-generation Uconnect system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the choice of 5.0-, 7.0- or 8.4-inch touchscreens with pinch-and-zoom capability
• Packed with more than 70 available advanced safety and security features
• Built in four countries for consumers all around the globe

November 17, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - 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.

More than 70 available advanced safety and security features
Safety and security were paramount in the development of the all-new 2017 Jeep Compass, which offers more than 70 available active and passive safety and security features. Consumers can drive with confidence as Compass includes “safety cage” construction with more than 65 percent high-strength steel. Available features include Forward Collision Warning-Plus, LaneSense Departure Warning-Plus, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection, ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation and seven standard air bags.

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[G. David Felt]

Sweet, I could see this in s a Matte Black with Matte Black rims, black out edition.Solidifies the family design language.

[A Horse With No Name]

16 minutes ago, dfelt said:

Sweet, I could see this in s a Matte Black with Matte Black rims, black out edition.Solidifies the family design language.

There have been a few SUV's lately that would win me over to your side of the fence...this might be one of them.

[ccap41]

I think it looks GREAT! I'm just not a huge fan of a n/a 4 banger matched to a 9spd.. aren't their issues with that combination now?

[A Horse With No Name]

3 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

I think it looks GREAT! I'm just not a huge fan of a n/a 4 banger matched to a 9spd.. aren't their issues with that combination now?

I think so...would love this with a manual.  I wonder if getting a manual messes up the tow rating on this?

[William Maley]

59 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

I think it looks GREAT! I'm just not a huge fan of a n/a 4 banger matched to a 9spd.. aren't their issues with that combination now?

 

That combination has been improving over time. Last one I drove - Fiat 500X - had no issues.

[daves87rs]

7 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

I think so...would love this with a manual.  I wonder if getting a manual messes up the tow rating on this?

Would think it would still do a grand with no issues....

[Stew]

FCA has pretty well worked all the issues out.  16+ models are a HUGE difference compared to the 14 to 15s with the 9 speed.  I was hoping for the new Turbo 4, maybe later though since I am sure the lions share of initial production will go to the Wrangler. 

[Frisky Dingo]

I really like this little thing so far. I hope it fairs well in reviews.

[A Horse With No Name]

1 hour ago, Frisky Dingo said:

I really like this little thing so far. I hope it fairs well in reviews.

I would think it would.  i love the current direction of jeep in many ways.

[frogger]

Looks like a huge improvement, I like it quite a bit.  Should be a good value.  The next Cherokee needs to step up its packaging to separate itself and be a better family vehicle.

[ehaase]

One rumor on Allpar is that the Cherokee will move to the Giorgio platform when redesigned. Apparently, there will be no more products on the CUSW platform (excluding the Pacifica and maybe a large crossover which supposedly are loosely based upon CUSW). 

[Drew Dowdell]

On 11/17/2016 at 3:44 PM, ccap41 said:

I think it looks GREAT! I'm just not a huge fan of a n/a 4 banger matched to a 9spd.. aren't their issues with that combination now?

No issues that I've experienced lately.  I feel like FCA must have made some running changes to the Cherokee setup because it feels smoother and quieter than I remember.  I had a trailhawk 4-cylinder for a week when I was in Houston last time and it was good fun to drive around. 

8 hours ago, frogger said:

Looks like a huge improvement, I like it quite a bit.  Should be a good value.  The next Cherokee needs to step up its packaging to separate itself and be a better family vehicle.

Cherokee is 8" longer than the Compass.

[frogger]

Last time I checked out the Cherokee with a friend shopping CUVs I was surprised how small the cargo area seemed for the size of the car.  It definitely seemed unusually small for the class of vehicle, more like a hatchback that was a foot shorter in length and narrower.  It was a deal breaker for them.

[daves87rs]

11 hours ago, ehaase said:

One rumor on Allpar is that the Cherokee will move to the Giorgio platform when redesigned. Apparently, there will be no more products on the CUSW platform (excluding the Pacifica and maybe a large crossover which supposedly are loosely based upon CUSW). 

Wonder how it would change to handling of it.....

[A Horse With No Name]

On 11/20/2016 at 0:12 AM, daves87rs said:

Wonder how it would change to handling of it.....

Probably improve it, most of the global car makers are stiffening the chassis and unibody a good bit with their global architecture.

A good case in point is how much better the MK 7 GTI is than the MK 6 GTI.  Subaru also really improved the stiffness with the latest Impreza and WRX models also.

Also of note, I think car makers should stick to building things they are passionate about....and Chryco/Fiat is passionate about Jeep. I think they will nail the execution on this one.

[daves87rs]

4 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

Probably improve it, most of the global car makers are stiffening the chassis and unibody a good bit with their global architecture.

A good case in point is how much better the MK 7 GTI is than the MK 6 GTI.  Subaru also really improved the stiffness with the latest Impreza and WRX models also.

Also of note, I think car makers should stick to building things they are passionate about....and Chryco/Fiat is passionate about Jeep. I think they will nail the execution on this one.

 

Agreed! As long as it can still take a beating off road, then all is good....

[A Horse With No Name]

21 minutes ago, daves87rs said:

 

Agreed! As long as it can still take a beating off road, then all is good....

Considering that Jeeps have more actual towing capacity than many of their competitors, that would also be a plus...

[Drew Dowdell]

2 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

Considering that Jeeps have more actual towing capacity than many of their competitors, that would also be a plus...

Only the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee... and even then only with pricey tow prop options... the rest are fairly standard. 

 

[A Horse With No Name]

Just now, Drew Dowdell said:

Only the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee... and even then only with pricey tow prop options... the rest are fairly standard. 

 

I was thinking other end, Renegade will tow 2000, most other cute utes will not tow at all.

[Drew Dowdell]

Towing 2,000 lbs with a Renegade sounds fairly ambitious... I've towed as much with the CR-V and it wasn't fun.

[A Horse With No Name]

3 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

Towing 2,000 lbs with a Renegade sounds fairly ambitious... I've towed as much with the CR-V and it wasn't fun.

Thinking actually i would not mind a small SUV that could tow a small boat or jet ski.

 

[Suaviloquent]

I think this is better looking than the Cherokee, and oddly enough it's not really that far away in terms of cargo space and combined legroom.

 

If only they could swap the exteriors, make this exterior just a little larger...ahhhh so much better than that really weird mug the Cherokee has.

[daves87rs]

10 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

Thinking actually i would not mind a small SUV that could tow a small boat or jet ski.

 

Kinda my thought as well....I figure I would just get an old truck if I really needed more....

[A Horse With No Name]

5 hours ago, daves87rs said:

Kinda my thought as well....I figure I would just get an old truck if I really needed more....

Yeah, I am trying to limit the number of vehicles I own to two. Trying to save money to see a few parts of Europe and South America, also I have 4 (yeah four) children in College, all of whom I am helping in one way or another.

[daves87rs]

6 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

Yeah, I am trying to limit the number of vehicles I own to two. Trying to save money to see a few parts of Europe and South America, also I have 4 (yeah four) children in College, all of whom I am helping in one way or another.

 

Dang, and here am I worrying about one......Funny (but cool! ) Looking to do the same thing, as I would like to see Europe and certain places in Canada in the future here. Figuring on a new family truckster (Nox, Escape) updating heaving on the current DDs, and tinker with the Cav. then just replace the DDS as they go......

[A Horse With No Name]

4 minutes ago, daves87rs said:

 

Dang, and here am I worrying about one......Funny (but cool! ) Looking to do the same thing, as I would like to see Europe and certain places in Canada in the future here. Figuring on a new family truckster (Nox, Escape) updating heaving on the current DDs, and tinker with the Cav. then just replace the DDS as they go......

Driving them until they drop has always worked as a philosophy for me.

Personally, for a family truckster, I like a lot of things in the Jeep lineup.

[daves87rs]

10 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

Driving them until they drop has always worked as a philosophy for me.

Personally, for a family truckster, I like a lot of things in the Jeep lineup.

 

True, the new Compass looks good (old one-blah!) and I really like the Patriot, but they are going to be gone by the time I plan to buy. The baby Jeep ute' is cool, but too small for family stuff (would be good for the wife though) And I like the other two...but simply not putting any kind of crazy money out for them......

And Yep- GM's Compact are never cool, but they go awhile...The powertrains on both Ecotec engines are strong- and might go a while if the MI weather doesn't rust them out first...