The Jeep Compass stands as a testament to the iconic American automaker’s legacy of crafting rugged, versatile vehicles that blend off-road prowess with urban sophistication. Launched in India in 2017, the Compass has carved a niche for itself in the mid-size SUV segment, appealing to buyers who seek a combination of premium interiors, off-road capability, and a commanding road presence. Built on the FCA Small Wide 4×4 platform, this compact crossover SUV brings Jeep’s signature design language—think bold seven-slot grille and muscular stance—into a package that’s more accessible than its larger siblings like the Grand Cherokee. Over the years, it has undergone updates to stay competitive, with the latest iterations offering modern technology, refined powertrains, and a host of features tailored to the Indian market.
Unlike many of its rivals, the Jeep Compass isn’t just about aesthetics or city commuting; it’s a vehicle designed to tackle diverse terrains while ensuring comfort and safety. Available only with a diesel engine in India as of 2025, it caters to buyers who prioritize torque-rich performance and fuel efficiency over petrol-powered alternatives. Its all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants further enhance its appeal for adventure enthusiasts, making it a standout option in a segment dominated by front-wheel-drive competitors. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore the Jeep Compass’s technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and dive deep into what makes it tick, alongside a look at its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
Below is a detailed breakdown of the Jeep Compass’s technical specifications, sourced from reliable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest available data as of March 12, 2025.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0-litre Multijet II Diesel |
| Displacement | 1956 cc |
| Max Power | 170 PS @ 3750 RPM |
| Max Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual / 9-speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | 4×2 (FWD) / 4×4 (AWD) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 14.9 kmpl (AT) – 17.1 kmpl (MT) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 litres |
| Suspension (Front) | McPherson Strut with FSD |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-link with FSD |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Disc |
| Tyre Size | 225/60 R17 (Base) / 225/55 R18 (Top) |
| Wheel Type | Alloy Wheels |
| Ground Clearance | 178 mm (unladen) |
| Length x Width x Height | 4405 mm x 1818 mm x 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1537-1647 kg (varies by variant) |
| Boot Space | 438 litres |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
Note: Specifications may vary slightly based on variant and optional equipment. Mileage figures are ARAI-certified and may differ in real-world conditions.
Variants
The Jeep Compass is offered in a range of variants, catering to different buyer preferences from entry-level to fully loaded trims. Below is a table listing the key variants available in India as of March 2025, based on data from CarDekho and ZigWheels.
| Variant | Transmission | Drive Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 Sport | Manual | 4×2 | LED headlamps, 7-inch touchscreen, dual airbags |
| 2.0 Longitude | Manual | 4×2 | 10.1-inch touchscreen, push-button start, alloys |
| 2.0 Longitude (O) | Manual/Auto | 4×2 | Panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, cruise control |
| 2.0 Limited (O) | Manual/Auto | 4×2 | Leather seats, 360-degree camera, 6 airbags |
| 2.0 Black Shark (O) | Auto | 4×2 | Blacked-out styling, premium audio, ventilated seats |
| 2.0 Model S (O) | Auto | 4×2/4×4 | AWD option, 10.25-inch digital cluster, ADAS (basic) |
Note: The Anniversary Edition, based on Longitude (O), adds cosmetic enhancements like red seat covers and a dashcam but retains the same mechanicals.
Price in Metro Cities
The Jeep Compass’s pricing varies across metro cities due to differences in taxes, registration fees, and insurance costs. Below is a table of ex-showroom and indicative on-road prices (as of March 12, 2025) in key Indian metros, sourced from CarWale and CarDekho.
| City | Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹ Lakh) | On-Road Price (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | 2.0 Sport | 18.99 | 22.73 |
| 2.0 Model S (O) 4×4 AT | 32.41 | 38.48 | |
| Mumbai | 2.0 Sport | 18.99 | 23.15 |
| 2.0 Model S (O) 4×4 AT | 32.41 | 39.20 | |
| Bangalore | 2.0 Sport | 18.99 | 23.85 |
| 2.0 Model S (O) 4×4 AT | 32.41 | 40.10 | |
| Chennai | 2.0 Sport | 18.99 | 23.50 |
| 2.0 Model S (O) 4×4 AT | 32.41 | 39.80 | |
| Kolkata | 2.0 Sport | 18.99 | 22.90 |
| 2.0 Model S (O) 4×4 AT | 32.41 | 38.70 |
Note: On-road prices include RTO, insurance, and taxes, and may vary based on dealer discounts or additional accessories.
About the Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass is more than just a nameplate; it’s a bridge between Jeep’s storied off-road heritage and the demands of modern-day SUV buyers. Assembled at Jeep’s Ranjangaon facility in Maharashtra, India, the Compass is a locally manufactured product that enjoys competitive pricing while adhering to global quality standards. Its design is unmistakably Jeep, with a boxy silhouette, high ground clearance, and a rugged charm that sets it apart from sleeker, more car-like SUVs. The seven-slot grille, a signature Jeep feature, is flanked by sleek LED headlamps (in higher variants), giving it a premium yet aggressive look. Inside, the Compass offers a well-appointed cabin with soft-touch materials, leather upholstery (in top trims), and a layout that prioritizes driver ergonomics.
Under the hood, the Jeep Compass is powered exclusively by a 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine, a proven workhorse that delivers a balance of power and efficiency. This engine, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic transmission, produces 170 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque—figures that ensure spirited performance both in city traffic and on the highway. The availability of 4×4 variants with Jeep’s Active Drive system adds a layer of capability that few competitors can match, allowing the Compass to handle rough trails, muddy paths, and steep inclines with ease. The suspension setup, featuring Frequency Selective Damping (FSD), strikes a fine balance between ride comfort and handling precision, though it leans slightly toward stiffness—a trait that enhances stability but can be felt on sharp bumps.
The Compass’s interior is where it truly shines in the premium SUV space. The cabin is spacious enough for five adults, with ample legroom and headroom, though the rear bench is best suited for two adults and a child due to the transmission tunnel. Higher variants come loaded with features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Alpine sound system with a subwoofer. Safety is another strong suit, with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a 360-degree camera in top trims, ensuring peace of mind for occupants.
However, the Jeep Compass isn’t without its quirks. The diesel-only powertrain limits its appeal in a market where petrol and hybrid options are gaining traction. Fuel efficiency, while decent for its class (ranging from 14.9 kmpl to 17.1 kmpl), doesn’t match the figures of some competitors with smaller engines or hybrid tech. The 9-speed automatic gearbox, while smooth in operation, can feel sluggish during quick acceleration from low RPMs, a trait that might disappoint buyers expecting a sportier drive. Cargo space, at 438 litres, is adequate but falls short of rivals like the Tata Harrier, which offer more practicality for family use. Additionally, the Compass commands a premium price tag, which positions it as a more expensive option compared to mass-market SUVs like the Mahindra XUV700 or Hyundai Creta.
Jeep has positioned the Compass as a lifestyle vehicle, targeting buyers who value brand heritage, driving dynamics, and a touch of exclusivity. The 2021 facelift brought sharper styling, updated interiors, and enhanced tech, while subsequent updates—like the Anniversary Edition launched in 2024—have kept it fresh with cosmetic tweaks and accessory packs. The Compass excels in areas like ride quality, off-road capability, and build quality, with a monocoque chassis that feels rock-solid. Its ground clearance of 178 mm (unladen) might not be the highest in the segment, but paired with approach and departure angles optimized for off-roading, it handles challenging conditions better than most urban-focused SUVs.
The driving experience of the Jeep Compass is a mixed bag, depending on your priorities. In the city, the diesel engine’s low-end torque makes it effortless to navigate traffic, while the automatic variants offer a relaxed cruising experience on highways. The steering is well-weighted, offering good feedback, and the AWD system inspires confidence on slippery surfaces. However, the stiff suspension can transmit road imperfections into the cabin, and the engine gets noisy when pushed past 3,000 RPM. For those who venture off the beaten path, the Compass’s Selec-Terrain system (available in 4×4 variants) with modes like Snow, Sand, Mud, and Auto enhances traction, making it a capable companion for weekend getaways.
Service and maintenance are critical considerations for any premium SUV buyer, and Jeep has worked to address this in India. The brand offers a standard warranty of 3 years or 1 lakh km, extendable to 5 years or 1.5 lakh km, alongside roadside assistance packages. However, Jeep’s service network, while expanding, isn’t as widespread as that of rivals like Tata or Mahindra, which could mean longer travel times for repairs in smaller cities. Spare parts, being imported in some cases, can also be pricier, pushing up the cost of ownership compared to locally dominant brands.
The Jeep Compass’s market positioning is unique—it straddles the line between mainstream mid-size SUVs and premium offerings from European brands. Its close competitors, detailed later, include the Tata Harrier, Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Citroen C5 Aircross, each bringing its own strengths to the table. While the Compass doesn’t lead in outright sales volumes (owing to its higher price and diesel-only strategy), it enjoys a loyal following among buyers who appreciate its blend of ruggedness, refinement, and Jeep’s global pedigree.
Close Competitors
The Jeep Compass operates in a competitive mid-size SUV segment in India, where it faces off against both Indian and international rivals. Here’s an in-depth look at its close competitors and how it stacks up.
Tata Harrier
The Tata Harrier is one of the Compass’s fiercest rivals, offering a compelling mix of value, space, and features at a lower price point. Priced between ₹14.99 lakh and ₹24.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the Harrier undercuts the Compass significantly while delivering a 2.0-litre diesel engine (also a Multijet II unit) with 170 PS and 350 Nm. It lacks an AWD option, focusing instead on front-wheel-drive practicality. The Harrier boasts a larger 520-litre boot, a more spacious cabin, and features like a panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS in top trims. However, its build quality and off-road capability don’t match the Compass’s ruggedness, and its ride is softer, prioritizing comfort over handling.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a direct competitor in the premium SUV space, priced between ₹29.02 lakh and ₹35.94 lakh (ex-showroom). Available with both petrol and diesel engines (the latter a 2.0-litre unit producing 185 PS), the Tucson offers a smoother automatic transmission (8-speed) and a more refined cabin. It comes with Level 2 ADAS, a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and a plush ride quality tailored for urban use. However, it lacks the Compass’s off-road credentials (no AWD in India) and commands a higher price, making it less value-driven. The Tucson appeals to buyers seeking luxury over ruggedness.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan, priced at around ₹35.17 lakh (ex-showroom), is a European rival that brings a 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine (190 PS) and a 7-speed DSG gearbox to the table. Its AWD system and superior build quality make it a strong contender for the Compass’s top-end variants. The Tiguan excels in refinement, highway dynamics, and interior fit-finish, but its petrol-only powertrain and higher running costs (due to lower mileage) limit its appeal in India. It also offers less cargo space (615 litres expandable) and fewer features compared to the Compass’s loaded trims.
Citroen C5 Aircross
The Citroen C5 Aircross, priced at ₹36.91 lakh (ex-showroom), is another premium alternative with a unique selling proposition: ride comfort. Its 2.0-litre diesel engine (177 PS, 400 Nm) is paired with an 8-speed automatic, and its progressive hydraulic cushion suspension delivers an unmatched ride quality. However, it’s a front-wheel-drive-only SUV with a minimalist feature list compared to the Compass, lacking AWD or advanced tech like ADAS. Its higher price and limited service network make it a niche choice.
Final Thoughts!
The Jeep Compass is a standout in the mid-size SUV segment, blending off-road capability, premium appeal, and a robust diesel powertrain into a package that’s distinctly Jeep. Its strengths lie in its build quality, driving dynamics, and feature-rich higher variants, making it ideal for buyers who prioritize experience over outright practicality or affordability. However, its diesel-only strategy, premium pricing, and relatively smaller boot space put it at a disadvantage against rivals like the Tata Harrier or Hyundai Tucson in terms of mass-market appeal. For adventure seekers and Jeep loyalists, the Compass remains a compelling choice, but cost-conscious buyers might find better value elsewhere. As of March 2025, it continues to hold its own, offering a unique proposition in a crowded market.
