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The first Jeep model to launch in India, the Jeep Compass has been a very successful product for the automaker. However, over the last year or so, sales of the SUV have slowed down as the popular petrol powertrain was discontinued due to the new emission norms. Now, the latest reports suggest that Jeep may reintroduce the petrol motor in India. We take a closer look.
Recently, spy shots of the Jeep Compass have surfaced with the SUV appearing different from the current model. The test mule has been spotted sporting a different front-end design that reminds of the Compass’ rugged Trailhawk variant with a more rugged bumper. Elsewhere, it looks quite similar to the regular model but may get slight changes to the side and rear.
The automaker has started adding new variants of the Compass, like the recent Black Shark Edition 4x2 automatic, to help boost sales of the SUV. Since the petrol got discontinued, a diesel motor has been the only powertrain choice. In the near future, a new petrol motor option and a minor facelift should really help sales pick up again.
Jeep may borrow the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol motor from the Renegade for the updated Compass in India. The GSE Turbo G4 unit pumps out 150 bhp with 270 Nm of peak torque. It could be mated to a 10-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The powertrain is also available as a strong-hybrid option globally, but that is less likely to come to India.
With testing already underway, expect Jeep to introduce the new petrol Compass sometime next year, maybe late 2024. Upon launch, the Compass will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, MG Hector, Tata Harrier, Mahindra Scorpio, and Kia Seltos.
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