Jeep Compass gets new engine options for Europe

·         SUV gets all-new 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine and DCT gearbox

·         New colour options and wheel designs introduced

·         Features Jeep’s latest Uconnect 5 infotainment tech

Jeep has given its Compass SUV a series of upgrades for the 2020 model year, including the introduction of a new turbo-petrol engine and dual-clutch gearbox. The updated Compass will go on sale in Europe initially, followed by a few other markets.

What are the mechanical updates?

The 2020 Compass receives a new 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine. The engine is available in 130hp form with a 6-speed manual gearbox and 150hp form with a new 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Both versions of the 1.3 engine put out 40Nm more torque than the outgoing 1.4 petrol’s 250Nm figure.

The new dry dual-clutch gearbox also brings a Sport mode that, along with adjusting shift behaviour, holding on to a lower gear and boosting throttle response, also increases the steering weight.

Jeep will also offer a plug-in hybrid 4xe version abroad, which uses the same 1.3-litre petrol mated to a rear-axle electric motor to enable all-wheel drive. The 4xe can be had in 190hp and 240hp forms. Finally, the 1.6-litre diesel engine on the European-spec Compass now gets selective catalytic reduction to cut particulate emissions.  Further mechanical revisions include a retuned steering rack claimed to be lighter and more progressive, plus new shock absorbers to reduce body movements and improve braking stability. 

What else is new?

While a more comprehensive facelift comes early next year, the updated Jeep Compass is identifiable by its new wheel design. The SUV will also be available with five new exterior colours, available in combination with a black roof.  

Inside the cabin, the updated Compass gets Jeep’s latest Uconnect 5 services, across the range. This provides an array of online functions and the ability to connect the car to a mobile app or smart watch. The upcoming 4xe models will feature tech such as cabin pre-conditioning too.

When will it come to India?

If and when India gets the new 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine in place of the current 1.4 unit remains to be seen. What’s known is India will get a substantially updated Compass in early 2021. The facelifted Compass will incorporate sheet metal changes, all-new front and rear bumpers, re-profiled headlamps and a new grille with honeycomb-like inserts. Additionally, the updated Compass will likely get a redone dashboard with a larger infotainment screen. Jeep’s BS6-compliant 2.0-litre diesel will be the mainstay of the range in India.