FCA India’s Ranjangaon facility
is one of the four global manufacturing bases for the 2017 Jeep Compass, an
all-new global compact SUV delivering 4x4 capability, world-class on-road
driving dynamics, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains and premium styling. The
company claims it is the most capable compact SUV ever with the most advanced
4x4 systems in its class. The vehicle will be built in four countries – India,
China, Brazil and Mexico for consumers in more than 100 countries around the
world.
“Our all-new 2017 Jeep Compass enters an
extremely important and growing segment worldwide, and does so with an
unmatched list of attributes that includes benchmark 4x4 off- road capability,
exceptional on-road driving dynamics, fuel-efficient powertrains, countless
advanced technology and safety features, all wrapped in a premium, authentic
Jeep design,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global, adding that
“Built around the world for customers everywhere, Jeep Compass raises the bar
in the compact-SUV segment.”
The 2017 Jeep Compass, during
its India launch mid next year, will be available in three trim configurations.
The Jeep Active Drive SelecTerrain 4x4 system provides the best
four-wheel-drive performance on- or off-road and in any weather condition. The
Jeep Compass in India will get FCA’s “small wide architecture,” a fully
independent suspension with Frequency Selective Damping in front-and-rear-strut
system, and precise electric power steering combine to deliver superior on-road
driving dynamics.
Compass boasts a rigid
foundation. The upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit
for a stiff and more mass-efficient structure, and it is designed and built
with an extensive use of high-strength steel and liberal use of structural
adhesives. More than 65 percent high-strength steel is used for maximizing
vehicle dynamics and crash performance while optimizing weight efficiency.
A total of five engines – three
gasoline and two diesel – will be offered, across different markets worldwide.
India will get a petrol and a diesel powertrain in manual and automatic
transmission options. Jeep designers gave the legendary seven-slot grille a
fresh look by setting each of the individual chrome slots in a Gloss Black
field. Headlamp bezels featuring a black outline add personality and attitude
to the front of the all-new Jeep Compass. The exterior of the 2017 Jeep Compass
features a traditional clamshell hood with a double break line and centre
bulge.
A fast, dramatic roofline and
muscular fenders and shoulders create a stunning profile. The available Gloss
Black painted roof adds a unique, premium appearance in the compact SUV
segment.
A standout feature of the rear
of the Compass is its unique LED tail lamps. Slim and rectangular in shape, the
tail lamps flow into the liftgate for a commanding yet premium appearance
instantly recognizable as a Jeep Compass on the road or trail.
The trapezoidal centre stack
bezel is a characteristic Jeep design cue and sports a colour and finish that
complements the interior choice. The centre stack houses a touchscreen display,
a feature that will be market-specific. The centre console neatly integrates
the functional features of the Jeep Compass, including gear-shift selection,
Selec-Terrain controls, engine stop-start (ESS) controls, climate and volume
control knobs, and easily accessible media charging and connectivity ports
within the cubby bin.
The driver’s cockpit is
thoughtfully designed and features a 3.5- or 7-inch LED driver information
display (DID) instrument cluster. The available full-color 7-inch DID – the
largest in the segment
– displays information that
the driver may configure for easier access while driving. The Jeep steering
wheel with integrated audio, voice and speed controls enables drivers to keep
their hands on the wheel and attention focused on the road ahead.