Upcoming 2021 Jeep Compass facelift revealed internationally

The Jeep Compass facelift has been revealed for the first time at the Guangzhou International Motor show in China. This is the mid-life update for the SUV and is expected to launch in India by March 2021. A seven-seater version is also expected to join the line-up alongside this when it debuts in India.

The updates to the styling of the Compass are evolutionary with a slimmer set of LED headlamps and a redeworked grille design. The seven-slat grille has been condensed and a new two-part arrangement to the lower airdam has been added with its full-width opening and a more prominent lower lip. A new set of alloy wheels are seen as well as some minor tweaks to the rear. The top-spec Trailhawk version has been shown too. As with the earlier car, this tough version gets an all-black grille treatment, a more functional bumper design and the signature red two-hooks and decals.

Changes to the interiors of the Compass are far more extensive. The dashboard has been completely redesigned and now features a more contemporary horizontally-themed look. There is a new 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster and seamlessly integrated airvents. The highlight though is the large 10.1-inch floating instrument with the new UConnect 5 interface and connected-car tech. A new steering wheel, and a fully reworked centre console are other highlights. Feature highlights are expected to be wireless charging, 360-degree cameras, climate control and ventilated seats.

Under the hood, the big news should be the new 1.3-litre turbo-petrol that debuted in the updated Compass internationally. This motor makes 130PS when optioned with a manual gearbox and 150PS when paired with a DCT. Both make 270 Nm. The 2.0-litre diesel engine should carry on unchanged with 173PS of power and 350Nm of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. Jeep also debuted the 4xe hybrid AWD version of the Compass internationally but that is not expected to be made available here. The AWD setup and various off-road modes that are a Compass USP should find their way here too.

The facelifted Compass when launched in India will compete with the Hyundai Tucson, the upcoming Skoda Kodiaq petrol and the Honda CR-V. Current prices of the Compass range from Rs 16.49 lakh to Rs 27.60 lakh, ex-showroom Mumbai.