With all the attention that the Jeep Gladiator, Wrangler, and even the upcoming Grand Wagoneer are getting these days, it can be easy to forget that behind the scenes, the iconic off-road focused brand is preparing updates for some of its other models. One of these is apparently, the Jeep Compass, with the brand revealing that the 2021 Compass will make its virtual debut on June 4th.
While the lone teaser that the company released is an extreme close up of the front grille, it’s apparent that some form of refresh is in store for the Compass (contrary to being all “new” as claimed by Jeep of Europe.) but if it’s indeed a refresh versus an all out reboot, what can we expect to see? While the refreshed Compass has so far eluded detection out in the wild, some ideas can be ascertained by the way that Jeep of Europe is teasing the model. For example, the extreme close up of the grille area could indicate that Jeep designers have redesigned the front fascia. We are not expecting a radical departure from what is being used currently, but instead a more subtle refresh aimed at possibly changing the headlights, the shape of the grille outlets themselves, or even tweaked rear taillights.
We suspect that performance hardware would also be left alone too. In the U.S. the Compass is only available with a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine, but over in Europe the Compass can also be equipped with a wide range of petrol and diesel engines. A PHEV version is coming though, with FCA first unveiling the electrified Compass (along with the smaller Renegade) at the 2020 Consumer Electronics show. The system in that particular flavor of Compass would consist of a 1.3 liter four cylinder which is paired with an electric motor. While FCA chose to not release any formal performance details for the model, estimates do place that figure between 190 and 240 horsepower, and a preliminary EV only driving range of 31 miles. Other updates could include the latest iteration of FCA’s Uconnect system which would allow the Compass to offer improved mobile capability, as well as enhanced connectivity.
Of course the answers to all of these questions and more will be revealed on June 4th when the 2021 Compass will make its virtual world debut. After that happens, look for production to formally kick off shortly after, with the first units arriving at dealerships in Europe before the end of the year. Look for more information on a potential U.S. version soon. In the meantime, we have put the teaser video in question below, and we look forward to hearing your thoughts on what you think is in store for the 2021 Jeep Compass.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.