Jeepers Creepers, where'd ya get those peepers? Jeepers Creepers, where'd ya get those eyes? Yes, your eyesight isn't deceiving you. This is yet another renewed Jeep. I say renewed because the Compass has been around since 2006, writes Tim Barnes-Clay. What? Yes, you read that correctly - the model was originally launched not far off 20 years ago. Doesn't seem like it, does it?
Anyhow, fast-forward from 2006 to 2025, and the Compass, which has been bought by 2.5 million people over the years, has gone under the knife and come out the other end promising improved tricks. Well, that might be overegging the pudding, so let's take a look at why Jeep bothered tampering with a good thing.
Well, aesthetically, Jeep does what the brand does so well - it merges modern technology with rugged capability, resulting in a good-looking, capable motor. The 2025 Compass keeps the legendary Jeep features, like the seven-slot grille and quadrilateral wheel arches, while radiating a modern flair. its anti-scratch Jeep shield and fortified bumpers provide added protection.
The Compass comes in many colours, ranging from gaudy to tasteful. Jeep says natural landscapes inspire the shades - and who's to doubt it? You can't exactly miss the launch colour, Hawaii. To you and me, it's bright green - and is meant to symbolise the Hawaiian Islands. Other hues include Amazonia green with brown tones, Pacific blue, Yosemite grey, Vulcano black and Antarctica white.
A pleasingly bold design that nods to Jeep's heritage is to be applauded. For you tech-heads, the model sits on the Stellantis's (Jeep's parent company) STLA Medium platform, which supports electrification. First impressions are that the new Jeep Compass delivers style in an impressive package.
Even though Jeep is a US marque, the Compass is made in Italy at the country's Melfi plant. The ultramodern facility is playing an increasingly major role in helping Stellantis produce electrified vehicles. To be fair, the Compass is more than made in Italy - it's also designed there, in Turin, to be precise. The US, of course, has a hand in the design too.
No drives have taken place yet, but the versatile vehicle has been great for both outdoor enthusiasts and daily commuters for the last 19 years - so there's little doubt the fresh version will do the same. Only this time, it boasts superior technology and enhanced safety features.
Digging deeper, Jeep tells us that the new Compass extends its impressive abilities across the board, including front-wheel-drive versions that can easily tackle off-road challenges. With a significantly increased ground clearance of up to 200mm and exceptional approach, breakover, and departure angles, the Compass is built to conquer more than a field in Essex.
But it's not just about going off the beaten track; the Compass will also deliver a good enough driving experience in and around the 'burbs. Jeep claims its new suspension system apportions handling and comfort in equal measure, offering a smooth ride in town or on rolling country roads. All-wheel-drive editions take it one step further. Jeep explains that the updated model has even better off-road capabilities and standard features like hill descent control to enhance driver confidence in every situation.
Inside, the new Compass creates a spacious and versatile environment, featuring 55mm of added legroom and a substantial 550 litres of boot space. The 40/20/40 rear seat split adds to the Jeep's practicality, making it perfect for passengers and cargo. The infotainment system will no doubt elevate the driving experience with a large 10-inch instrument cluster and a stunning 16-inch infotainment screen. Meanwhile, connected services keep the model updated with the latest features and improvements.
The available powertrains are designed to meet a range of tastes, from a fuel-economising 145hp 48v Hybrid to an extreme 375hp all-wheel-drive electric model. According to Jeep, the cutting-edge electric motor enhances traction so that the Compass can tackle steep inclines with ease. With decent EV charging ability and a range of up to 403 miles that's competitive, the latest Compass is poised to be at the forefront of electrified vehicles.
For those who desire more, the new First Edition model offers unique styling cues, including sleek 20-inch wheels and LED matrix headlights, while maintaining the unmistakable Jeep appearance. With its optimised off-road capabilities and stylish touches, this limited edition will surely get heads swivelling both on and off the tarmac.
So, if this article has stirred something positive within you, then visit your local Jeep dealership. This isn't a promotion; I was invited to Italy to have a good impartial gander at it, and my perceptions, without driving the model, are good. Even if you're merely curious about owning a vehicle that looks different from many other compact SUVs, it's worth getting out of bed to have a nose around the new Jeep Compass. It's certainly a vehicle that promises, if nothing else, to enhance a journey with its blend of adventure-ready features and modern comforts.
Furthermore, as touched upon earlier in the piece, safety is a key feature of the new Compass - as you would hope and expect a quarter of the way into the 'new' century. The First Edition highlight this as it vaunts Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities, as well as parking sensors and a reversing camera. The model also encompasses an optional bundle that features conveniences such as an open-air sunroof, semi-automated lane change assistance, as well as ventilated and massaging seats.
The new Compass, kicking off in First Edition trim, will be available for order this summer. Deliveries in the UK will start in the fourth quarter of this year.
