All-new 2017 Jeep® Compass Trailhawk

By Asian Journal Auto Editor

All-new 2017 Jeep® Compass Trailhawk
All-new 2017 Jeep® Compass Trailhawk

The 2018 Jeep Compass North is mid-range variant of the Compass lineup, a step up from the base Sport mode with the option of 4×4. For 2018 there is not much change from the 2017 model when the Compass came in as an all new model. Some minor changes include: SiriusXM: travel link, traffic information, and the Guardian system with remote services and assistance. Power for the Compass is a 2.4 liter four-cylinder MultiAir engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lbs. torque. Front-wheel drive models get a 6-speed automatic transmission, with a 6-speed manual available for select front and all wheel drive models. The automatic transmission on the other hand is via a 9-speed unit. The Compass features tight styling, and good proportions and is a fine looking vehicle.

Pricing for the Compass starts at $25,250 for the base Sport and rises to a high of $35,245 for the fully loaded. A number of options are available including the very desirable off-road performance enhanced Trailhawk model. The North edition of the Jeep Compass as tested, build on the Sport model, and arrives with 17-inch Tech Silver aluminum wheels. Keyless Enter ‘n’ Go feature with proximity feature enter and push-button start, leather wrapped steering wheel, fog lamps, automatic headlamps and roof rails. The rear-seats fold flat, as does the front-passenger seat, allowing for a huge cargo area in the Compass. The Norths equipment roster brings the price up to $28,745 plus any options, delivery and taxes.

2018 Jeep Compass North pic 2The interior is wonderfully rugged and functional Jeep with a no-nonsense simple layout that manages to look classy, elegant and interesting. There are plenty of soft-touch materials, and comfortable seats. The excellent 8.4-inch UConnect system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. The amount of head- and leg-room for front passengers is very good, although the rear quarters are a tad tighter in the headroom and department.

On road, the Jeep North offers a rather firm ride and clearly shows its off-road chops, but on roads feels smooth and comfortable. Fuel Consumption is rated at (City / Highway / Combined) L/100km: 10.8 / 7.8 / 9.5. The engine could use a little more power, but this would come at the expense of lesser fuel economy. However the on-road ride is pretty good being compliant oath and controlled. The cabin also feels quiet and comfortable. Tackle some rough trail and country roads and the Compass performs well. The four-wheel system stays in front-wheel, most of the time and smoothly transfers power to the rear wheels for extra traction when necessary. A dial on the console offers different modes for snow, sand, or mud. It does not feature the “rock” setting and ultra-low range 20:1 crawl ratio, of the Jeep Compass Trailhawk or Jeep Wrangler model, but not a deal breaker unless you intend on more serious off roading.

To sum up, the Jeep Compass offer great value if you opt for the base model starting at $24,900 and choose options wisely. The mid-level North model is a good upgrade from the base Sport version. Overall, you get a Compass that will get you plenty of kudos off the beaten track with its excellent off-road credentials. It is well styled, comfortable and nicely equipped as great family runabout. Highly recommended.

2018 Jeep Compass North AWD Priced from $28,745 plus delivery and taxes.