Jeep Compass Launching Today

The much-awaited Jeep Compass is all set to be launched today. It's an important launch for Jeep and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles as it shows the American carmaker's commitment to the Indian car buyers. Setting up a local production facility for the right-hand drive Compass speaks volumes about Jeep's intentions of succeeding in India. Not only is it going to be the most affordable Jeep here, but it's also likely to carry an aggressive price tag. Since opening bookings for the Compass, the company had received 1,000 bookings in just a week. How many of those buyers ask for their money back will depend on the price tag.

The Compass gets a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine that makes 162PS of power and 250Nm of torque. This engine will get a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual clutch automatic. However, it won't make it to the podium today and launch later this year. The 2.0-litre oil burner that'll go on sale packs 173PS of power and 350Nm of torque. A 6-speed manual is the only option with this engine, but a 9-speed automatic is slated to join next year. A robust shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive will be exclusively available with the torquey diesel mill.

The SUV will come in three trims; Sport, Latitude and Limited. The top trim will get features like HID projector lamps, LED guide lights at the front and rear, 17-inch alloy wheels, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display, six airbags, etc.

We're expecting the Jeep Compass to cost anywhere between Rs 20 and Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) putting it square against the Hyundai Tucson and the Volkswagen Tiguan.