Italian-Made Jeep Compass Gains 1.3L Turbo Petrol, Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission

Jeep has started building the Compass compact SUV at FCA’s plant in Melfi, Italy for sale in European markets.

With immediate effect, customers in Europe can order the Italian-made Jeep Compass, which brings significant content updates compared to the model that was previously imported from Mexico.

The most important change is the introduction of a new 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine replacing the previously-available 1.4-liter unit. The new engine is available in two power outputs: 130 PS (128 HP) and 150 PS (148 HP), each with a peak torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft).

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The Uconnect Services are now standard on 7-inch and 8.4-inch infotainment systems

Want 4WD? You’ll need to pick the Compass 4Xe plug-in hybrid

Customers will also be able to opt for an updated version of the 1.6-liter MultiJet II turbo diesel engine with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). The unit makes 120 PS (118 HP) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque in combination with a six-speed manual and front-wheel drive.

According to Jeep, the new petrol powertrains feature a GPF filter (Gasoline Particulate Filter) and are compliant with the Euro 6D Final norms, thus maximizing fuel-efficiency and lowering CO2 emissions. Both engines are offered exclusively with front-wheel-drive: the 130 PS unit with a six-speed manual transmission and the 150 PS petrol with a seven-speed automatic Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT) offering a new Sport driving mode.

This is the first application of an automatic transmission in combination with front-wheel drive on the Euro-spec Compass. Buyers who want an AWD variant will need to get one of the two Compass 4Xe plug-in hybrid models. Combining the 1.3-liter petrol with an electric motor and battery, they are available with two system outputs: 190 PS (187 HP) or 240 PS (237 HP).

The Jeep Compass 4Xe plug-in hybrids will be the only AWD models available in Europe

The Italian-made Jeep Compass has also been tweaked to deliver improved dynamic characteristics via lighter and more progressive steering and shock absorbers with FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) valves. These are said to limit body roll and pitch without affecting comfort.

Other improvements include the new Uconnect Services offered as standard on the 7-inch and 8.4-inch infotainment systems, six new alloy wheel designs and five new exterior paints that can be combined with an optional black roof.

The updated Jeep Compass will arrive in European dealerships in June in a choice of four trim levels: Longitude, Night Eagle, Limited and S. Compass 4Xe models will follow in the second half of the year.