Jeep Compass Woes Continue; Sales Down By 58% In December 2018

Jeep Compass Sales Drop India

Jeep sold 1,150 units of Compass last month and posted negative YoY growth of 58 per cent; sales could further go down following Harrier’s launch

Jeep Compass sales were down by 58 per cent in December as the company sold 1,150 units compared to 2,750 units in December 2017. When compared to November 2018, the sales dropped by one per cent only. The company introduced two limited edition models along with a new variant to improve sales last year but they did not help in boosting sales for the iconic American brand.

The company is planning to launch the much-awaited Trailhawk variant later this year, which is focused on off-roading. Along with this new variant, Jeep will finally introduce the automatic version of the diesel model, which has been delayed for a very long time. Some reports indicated that the company is working on upgrading the current engine to BSVI norms, which is why the Trailhawk’s launch has been postponed.

Month Jeep Compass Sales  YoY Difference
December          1,150  -58 percent
November          1,164  -59 percent
October          1,150  -53 percent

The competition is going to heat up with the launch of new Tata Harrier later this month as it is expected to undercut the Compass. The Limited Plus is the new top-end variant of Compass and it comes with more features like a panoramic sunroof, 8-way adjustable driver seat with memory function, lumbar support, new 18-inch alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers and automatic headlamps.

Jeep also updated the infotainment system as the Limited Plus variant gets bigger 8.4-inch Uconnect system, which comes with connectivity options like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The company did not made any mechanical changes in the SUV last year. Jeep Compass is powered by diesel and petrol engine options.

Jeep-Compass-Limited-Plus-launched-in-India

The 2.0 L turbocharged diesel engine produces 170 hp of power at 3,750 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual and it comes with both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive system. The 1.4 L petrol engine puts out 160 hp of power at 3,750 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm, mated to manual and 7-speed DCT gearbox.

The upcoming Trailhawk variant comes with exterior changes like new front and rear bumpers to improve approach and departure angle along with new front grille and alloy wheels. The hood also gets black decals along with Trailhawk badges at front and rear. The interior changes are minor like new upholstery with Ruby Red Stitching and it will be priced above the current top-end variant.