Used Jeep Compass Buying Guide : Jeep introduced the Compass back in 2017, and we’ve praised its handsome looks, off-roader credentials and rugged nature. Then came an update in 2021, adding a revised exterior design, all-new interior and new features. Review: Best of all worlds, the Compass is a proper four-wheel drive ‘SUV’, unlike most other ‘SUVs’ today, which are two-wheel drive. So this one is worth a look if you’re shopping for a ‘proper’ SUV for your family. Here’s what you need to know.
Even after the facelift, and in the form the original Compass was available with two engines. The 163hp, 1.4-litre turbo-petrol variants were offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT with two-wheel drive. The only one with 4×4 with off-road modes, the 2.0-litre diesel with 170hp got a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed torque converter. But then in 2023, Jeep axed the petrol mills on the Compass.
Jeep Compass fuel economy
The petrol should be good as you mostly drive a city. But they are no better in real-world mileage figures, with owners reporting an efficiency of around 6–7kpl, particularly in the automatic variant. The Compass is best experienced with the diesel, its torquey nature suits this SUV perfectly. And they get more efficient as well, in addition to the 4×4 option.
Jeep Compass variants and functionality
In fact, the Jeep Compass facelift is available in four trims at launch – Sport, Longitude (O), Limited (O) and Model S – and quite a few special editions were launched later on. There was also a hardcore ‘Trailhawk’ version for the serious off-roader. A 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, connected car
tech, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone auto climate control, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, leather upholstery, powered tailgate, 8-way electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation and 18-inch alloy wheels round up the feature list, which the range-topping Model S claims. For safety, the Model S gets six airbags, traction control, ESC, hill-start assist and ISOFIX child seat mounts.You can get away with the base Sport trim if you’re tight on cash (or just want petrol-manual version), but even then it’s a bit bare. Otherwise, it may make sense to stick with one of the top two trims, because they have everything you need.
The Compass has a standard warranty in place of 3 years/1,00,000km, with extended warranty and service packs also available. If you can find one, it’s worth going for one that’s still under warranty, since these SUVs tend to have a few issues. Service costs are pretty much in line with its rivals, but spares fall on the expensive end of the scale, and Jeep isn’t blessed with the widest service network in India. Still, the nice thing is, you’re getting a used SUV, similar in looks and with an identical powertrain, to a brand-new one, because the Compass hasn’t been refreshed since.
Clutch wear
Some owners have had premature clutch wear in the manual versions. That springy nature of the clutch causes drivers to ride it, contributing to premature wear. Test the drive, and see if the pedal feels too heavy to press, or you feel like the clutch is slipping (which is when a clutch goes bad). Manual variants of the Compass have seen premature clutch wear, at times.
Body damage
Being the capable off-roader it is, many owners would have likely taken the Jeep for off-roading excursions. That didn’t damage the underbody or any body panels, such as the bumper. So, you would be better off to inspect the SUV for any damages thoroughly.
Software issues
Some owners have also experienced software and electronic glitches with the touchscreen infotainment, digital instrument cluster, and even the auto gearbox controls. So inspect to make sure that everything is working like it should and that the software has the most recent updates.The infotainment system also throws software and electronic glitches.
Jeep Compass special editions
Jeep dropped the Longitude variant for 2023 before bringing it back in 2024. Over the years there have been a number of special editions, including the 80th Anniversary, and also the Black Shark and Night Eagle with slightly different look and selected component changes.The price of used Jeep Compass, the resale value
Rs 14 lakh-22 lakh
It means you will find used examples at a range of prices. However, if you’re looking to spend more than Rs 22 lakh, you’d be better off buying new. Demand isn’t high, so use that to drive a better price.