By Cristhian Montero
When looking at the 2017 Jeep Compass from the outside one can see a sporty and stylish Compact SUV, bordering on Crossover territory. Looking a bit closer at the new-generation Compass it has a little more to tell. Landing somewhere between its smaller sibling the Renegade and the bigger brother Cherokee it mixes the best of both.
The new Compass rolls in with four different trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. Fitted with an engine carrying a coil-on-plug ignition with dual plugs that hits 180-hp with a 2.4-liter four cylinder block. The engine can go along with one of three different transmissions, a nine-speed automatic, a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. Jeep Active Drive (AWD) is optional on all but the Trailhawk trim, featuring a fully disconnecting front wheel drive mode, automatic engagement, and a variable wet clutch in the rear drive module.
A complete set of tech amenities make up the internal workings of the 2017 Compass. With a new-generation 8.4” UConnect touch screen stereo option (also available in 5” and 7” units) it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All of the units gaining a speed boost compared to last year’s model. The steering wheel has details like integrated audio, voice, and speed controls; letting you focus on the road rather than all the distractions.
All in all the new 2017 Jeep Compass brings a great option to the Compact SUV segment. With its dashing good looks and variety of trim levels, it becomes appealing for its versatility amongst potential buyers. Carrying a fetching base MSRP of $19,940 it comes with tremendous value.
