Jeep Compass has been due for a generational update for a long time now
The next generation Jeep Compass has been announced by Stellantis for the international markets. Compass was first launched in India back in 2017. It was received well by the Indian buyers. After 4 years of existence, it got a mid-life facelift in 2021. By this time, the market had tons of competitors in this price bracket. Hence, the sales have been a bit low. In order to spur the demand for the American SUV yet again, a new-gen model is needed. Let us take a look at the details of what to expect.
Next Generation Jeep Compass
The teaser image has revealed a few design elements of the upcoming premium mid-size SUV. The main highlights of the image include prominent and flared wheel arches with muscular fenders and rugged cladding, a distinct crease on the door panels, black C-pillars to accentuate that floating roof effect, a short rear overhang, sturdy side skirtings and imposing rear wheel arches. Under the hood, there will be many powertrain options, at least in global markets. These include petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric. Clearly, the company is adopting a multi-fuel approach to cater to the widest range of potential customers possible.
The premium mid-size SUV will utilize the STLA medium platform which also underpins vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 / 5008 and Opel Grandland in many global markets. In fact, it is the same platform which the next-gen Citroen C5 Aircross will use which will go into production next year in Melfi, Italy. Similarly, the new-gen Compass will first go on sale in Europe in the second half of next year, after which it will be available in the U.S. It is still unclear when, or if, we will see it in India. Note that a media report from a couple of months ago suggested that Stellantis has axed the plans for the new-gen Compass for India. Therefore, it will be interesting to see if Jeep rethinks its strategy going forward.
My View
Jeep has not been doing as well in the Indian market as it would’ve wanted. The truth is that the Indian automobile industry is brutally competitive. Also, being the 3rd largest car market globally, every carmaker wants a part of this pie. Hence, it is critical to understand the mindset of the Indian customers and design products accordingly. That is why Stellantis is still considering whether to launch the new-gen Compass in India or not. In any case, we shall have to wait a bit more to know further details.
Also Read: Massive Discounts on Jeep SUVs This Month – Upto Rs 12 Lakh Off!
