Trail Ready

The Compass has now become the ‘Trail Ready’ Trailhawk. Jared finds out just what it’s capable of.

- Jared Solomon

Just like Mercedes-Benz has its AMG vehicles and BMW has its M-Division, American SUV manufacturer Jeep has something pretty similar – only it doesn’t have anything to do with on-road performance. Yup, I’m talking about that badge of honour that reads ‘Trail Ready.’ A Jeep vehicle with this badge simply means that the vehicle is a proper offroader and is capable of taking on anything that dares to come in its path.

The Compass itself is a highly versatile and beautiful machine. It even has the distinction of being our ‘Best of 2017’ machine – the year it was launched in India. It drives wonderfully in the city, and it can be quite capable off-the-road. But what if you want it to be a hardcore all-terrain conqueror? Well, then the new variant of the Compass, the Trailhawk, is the answer.

Earning the badge

The Compass Trailhawk looks exactly the same as the regular Compass, both inside and out. But, it’s not the same! There are minor details that set it apart. The most important differentiating factor is the tiny red badge that reads ‘Trail Ready.’ Being worthy of this badge is a serious affair, and the Jeep engineers have listed five criteria for a car to be Trail Ready.