Autocar India
12w

Hello Autocar team, I have been following you for close to a decade. Your reviews are comprehensive and unbiased as well. I have one question: What is the future of Jeep products like the Compass, considering there have been no major upgrades, updates, or new models? Is it worth buying one, as I am not sure how long the brand can sustain itself in the Indian market? Looking forward to your response.

Verified
12w
Your concern is completely understandable, because when you buy into a brand, you are also buying into its long-term ecosystem, not just the car itself. The Jeep Compass and Meridian are still genuinely competent products with strong build quality, excellent ride and handling, and a premium feel that many rivals still do not quite match. So from a pure product perspective, there is still a lot to like.
At the same time, product momentum has clearly slowed, and the lack of major new launches naturally raises questions. The good news is that Jeep is not exiting India, and there are future plans in place, but the next big all new product is still a year away. The brand may be in a quieter phase, but there is no sign of an abrupt India exit. In fact, Jeep has already outlined its future plans for the Indian market.
The bigger practical considerations are ownership confidence and resale. Jeep’s aftersales experience can be very good in some cities and less convincing in others, and resale values are not as strong as more mainstream premium rivals like Toyota. That said, if you are someone who buys a car to keep for several years rather than worrying about frequent upgrades, that becomes less of an issue.
Jeep Compass

Jeep Compass

12w

Autocar team, appreciate your response.

More questions on similar cars

5d

I am confused between the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz AMT, Maruti Suzuki Swift AMT, and Tata Tiago Pure+ AMT. My usage will be low to moderate, including city driving as well as occasional highway drives, and I am a first-time car buyer and driver. Based on my driving requirements, should I consider a CNG variant or stick to my original plan of buying a petrol car? Please help me choose the best car in this price range and also suggest any other suitable alternatives available.

Verified
5h

For a first-time buyer with low to moderate city and highway use, stick to a petrol car. Our recommendation will be the Maruti Swift AMT over the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios AMT. Your running does not justify the added cost and compromises of a CNG car, and the Maruti Swift strikes the best balance for your needs. This Maruti Suzuki car is easy to drive, has a smooth and refined petrol engine, a comfortable ride and a well-built, practical cabin. The AMT is one of the smoother units in the segment, making it a confidence-inspiring choice for a new driver. This Hyundai car isn't as good as the Swift when it comes to ride comfort and even rear seat space. The Tata Tiago AMT is the value pick, but the cabin and overall refinement are not at the same level. That said, if you want a slightly larger and more premium feeling car, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno AMT is also worth considering, but it will stretch the budget. If you don't want to stretch the Swift is the most well-rounded and easiest car to live with in this range.

VehicleMaruti Suzuki Swift
VehicleHyundai Grand i10 Nios
VehicleTata Tiago
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Baleno
5d

I've been driving a Maruti Ritz Diesel (190 Nm) for the last 5 years and am looking for an upgrade. My usage is 70% highway and 30% city, with a monthly running of only 500-750 km. I live in Bangalore and primarily use the car for weekend drives and highway trips. Cars tested: Honda Elevate MT/CVT: Reliable and comfortable, but the CVT felt dull, and I feel the naturally aspirated engine may not be exciting enough for highway driving. Kia Seltos Turbo DCT & Diesel AT: Feature-loaded, spacious, and family-friendly. The turbo-petrol feels quick, while the diesel AT feels effortless, but I am concerned about long-term DCT reliability and diesel DPF issues. Volkswagen Taigun/Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI AT: I loved the driving experience, stability, and engine performance. However, the cabin feels smaller compared to the Seltos. Volkswagen Taigun 1.5 DSG: I could not properly test its performance due to heavy city traffic. Volkswagen Virtus 1.0 TSI: This was the most confidence-inspiring car I drove, but my family is not keen on buying a sedan. Current concerns: My low annual running makes me question whether a diesel is the right choice due to DPF-related concerns. I am worried about the long-term reliability of turbo-petrol engines, DSG/DCT gearboxes, ethanol-blended fuel compatibility, and fuel economy. Naturally aspirated petrol engines seem more reliable, but I am concerned they may feel underpowered after driving a torquey diesel for years. Budget: Rs. 15-22 lakh on-road (Bangalore). The car will be purchased through my company lease program, so tax benefits will apply. Currently, my shortlist includes: Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol / Diesel AT Volkswagen Taigun 1.0 TSI AT (Highline or Topline) Considering my usage pattern and long-term ownership plans, which engine and powertrain would you recommend for the least-regret ownership experience?

Verified
6h

Given your usage and concerns, the Kia Seltos turbo-petrol DCT is the most sensible recommendation. Your 70% highway usage and weekend trips make diesel a good fit, and thIS Seltos diesel is a proven, reliable powertrain but the relatively short distance you cover over a month does not justify the premium you would pay for the diesel variant. The turbo-petrol has good punchy performance and is smooth to drive even in the city. Unlike the NA engine that is linear and laid back, the turbo-petrol feels lively and effortless. Yes, the efficiency won't be as good as diesel, but it is the nicer car to drive in comparison to others and with the uncertainty of diesel, it is the safer bet over a long term. Moreover, the cabin is refined, this Kia car offers good space and practicality and a more premium ownership experience than some of its rivals. The HTX trim will fit in your budget and gets a good amount of kit on offer.

VehicleKia Seltos

Popular discussions right now

Posted on: 13 May 2026