The range-topping Jeep Compass Trailhawk has a distinctive exterior with better off-roading capabilities compared to the regular model
With new rivals coming in thick and fast, it is high time for Jeep India to respond as the Compass’ sales have been slowing down in recent months. The American manufacturer has already confirmed working on a seven-seater mid-size UV while a sub-four-metre SUV rivalling the likes of Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport, Mahindra XUV300 and upcoming Hyundai Venue is also in the pipeline for early next decade.
Until then, Jeep will have to make do with the Compass and it has been expanding the range by introducing new entry-level, top-end and special edition variants to offer wider buying choice for customers. As part of that strategy, the Compass will reportedly receive a facelift next year while the range-topping Trailhawk variant will go on sale very soon with a BSVI compliant engine.
The Compass is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that is also used in Tata Harrier and the upcoming MG Hector. It will be upgraded to meet BSVI compliance well ahead of the deadline early next year, according to a recent report. Chances of any change in performance are very bleak as the Compass will continue to generate 170 PS and 350 Nm but an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission will be introduced.
The 2019 Jeep Compass Trailhawk will more likely be priced around Rs. 25 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with an updated exterior comprising of silver ‘Trail Rated’ badge on the front fenders, aggressive skid plates, redesigned bumpers, Trailhawk badge on the boot lid, all-terrain 225/60 R17 tyres, etc.
It gains 33.6 degrees departure angle, 24.4 degrees breakover and 30 degrees approach angle along with an Active Drive low-range four-wheel-drive system and increased ground clearance of 20 mm. The Selec Terrain 4WD system gets a new Rock mode as the Trailhawk measures 4,398 mm in length, 2,033 mm in width and stands 1,529 mm tall with maximum water wading depth of 482.6 mm.
The interior features black leather upholstery with Trailhawk badge, dual-zone climate control, seven-inch UConnect touchscreen infotainment system, sunroof, contrast accents and so on.