Jeep Compass Caught Testing In India; Launch In Mid-2017

But it was at the launch itself that the company promised that it would be bringing a made-in-India SUV by mid-2017. From the looks of it though, the company has already started testing the car and we can't wait to hear the launch announcement soon.

The all-new Jeep Compass will be locally manufactured at FCA's Ranjangaon facility near Pune and this is big news for India. For those who were a bit disappointed with the price tag the other Jeep SUVs came with, the Compass might just renew their hopes.

Jeep Compass Front

The all-new model replaces the outgoing Compass and Patriot SUVs completely and is an extremely important product for India. We say this time and again, because this will be the first car that FCA will make for export markets as well in India.

The 2017 Jeep Compass is positioned between the entry-level Renegade and Cherokee SUV in the automaker's line-up, and is based on the stretched version of the Small Wide 4x4 architecture. In terms of design, the new Compass replicates the design language of the Grand Cherokee. The square wheel arches, the muscular looks and the tail lamps, all bring the design element together and we love how it looks.

Jeep Compass Cabin

The cabin too takes inspiration from the Grand Cherokee instead of the Renegade and gets a neat looking cabin finished in black and grey. Talking about the mechanicals, the all-new Compass will get front-wheel drive as standard, while All-Wheel Drive will be available as optional right from the start.

Power is expected to come from 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engine options, while a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated motor will also be available in developed markets like the US. Transmission options will include a 9-speed automatic, while a manual is also likely to be offered. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) have said that globally there will be 17 powertrain options available on the new Jeep Compass, so definitely there won't be a dearth for choices.

Image Courtesy: Prashant Baluja