Updated Compass revealed

Compact Jeep achieves technology upgrade.

A REFRESH for the long-lived Jeep Compass has been unveiled, but no word yet on when or if it will show here.

Most of the revision to Jeep’s budget model - which presently formats here in Longitude, Trailhawk and Limited for between $37,990 and $44,990 - is to the interior.

However, as these images also show, the car achieves new exterior design cues as well.

The model is built in Italy, by Fiat, and  has become a core model in Europe for Jeep, now part of the Stellantis empire that merges Fiat Chrysler with Peugeot-Citroen’s PSA.

A 4xe variant recently introduced there – but not available in right hand drive yet - is, Jeep says, now Italy's best-selling plug-in hybrid. 

The PHEV drivetrain is expected to become a feature of the updated model in its RHD configuration. The model also delivers with a Fiat-derived 1.3-litre turbo petrol producing 95kW or 110kW and a 1.6-litre diesel with 95kW. Depending on the engine chosen, buyers can specify either a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic or a dual-clutch automatic gearbox, with either front- or four-wheel-drive. 

The big change in the cabin is the introduction of a 10.25 inch high-definition digital instrument cluster, with the infotainment touchscreen (available in either 8.4in or 10.1in forms) relocated to the middle of the dashboard for improved access.

The infotainment system itself has been upgraded with a processor five times faster, added connectivity features, smartphone mirroring functionality, voice recognition and 3D sat-nav. 

Changes to the outside are more subtle, but slimmer headlights and restyled bumpers help to differentiate the new Compass from the outgoing model. 

The updated Compass is Jeep's first European model to come equipped with Level 2 autonomous functions. Standard features include traffic sign recognition, drowsiness alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.