New Jeep Compass follows the beaten path

JEEP is hoping to tap into the mainstream with an all-new Compass that'll be available in mildhybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric forms. The new Europeanfocused mid-sized SUV is longer, wider and more sophisticated than previous generations, with a greater emphasis on family-friendly practicality than off-road capability.

- Jordan Katsianis

With Jeep a cog in the massive automotive machine that is Stellantis, the new Compass runs on the common multi-energy STLA-M platform, optimised for both electric and hybrid powertrains. These kick off at the lower end with a 142bhp 1.2litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

A 191bhp plug-in hybrid will be the most powerful combustion-engined model in the range, pairing a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a more substantial e-motor and 17.9kWh battery. Jeep hasn't confirmed official figures, but the same is used in other STLA-M models that offer around 40 miles on electric range.

However, it’s the EV models that offer the most variation, with three options. Things kick off with a singlemotor variant with 210bhp, drawing energy from a 73kWh battery offering a range of 310 miles. Next comes a model with a more substantial 97kWh battery and a slightly more powerful 227bhp motor.

Only one all-wheel-drive model will be offered at launch - a 370bhp dualmotor variant with the smaller 73kWh battery. For better off-road ability, Jeep has fitted a unique rear motor with a clever gear set that can serve up a colossal 3,100Nm of torque.