Jeep has finally pulled the wraps off the all-new Compass 2026, and it’s a game-changer for the brand. For the first time, this rugged SUV is going fully electric, alongside hybrid options, marking a big shift for Jeep as it dives deeper into electrification. Launched in Europe on May 6, 2025, this third-generation Compass brings a fresh look, more space, and a ton of tech, all while keeping its off-road roots intact. Let’s break down what this SUV has in store for adventure lovers and city drivers alike.
A Tough Look With Modern Style
The Compass 2026 has a sharper, ore muscular design that blends Jeep’s classic ruggedness with a modern edge. It keeps the iconic seven-slot grille but makes it more upright, taking cues from the larger Grand Cherokee and smaller Avenger. The front fascia sports sleek LED headlamps with DRLs, while the rear gets wrap-around LED tail lamps that add a sporty touch. Squared wheel arches, beefy cladding, and a black roof give it that tough Jeep vibe, but the overall look feels more polished with a boxy silhouette. It’s bigger now—4550 mm long, 1928 mm wide, and a 2795 mm wheelbase, which is 160 mm longer than the older model. It sits 200 mm off the ground in the front-wheel-drive version, with trapezoidal wheel arches and 17 to 20-inch wheels depending on the variant, rolling on tubeless tyres for better grip on mixed terrains.
A Power-Packed Electric Heart
The big news is the Compass 2026 going fully electric for the first time, alongside hybrid options. Built on Stellantis’s STLA Medium platform, it offers a range of powertrains. In markets like India, the older 2.0L diesel engine might stick around, but Jeep’s focus here is clearly on electrification.
Ready For Any Terrain
The Compass 2026 is built to handle more than just city streets. Jeep’s Select-Terrain system lets you tweak the suspension for different surfaces like sand or snow, and hill descent control comes standard on all-wheel-drive models. New springs, dampers, and an anti-roll bar promise a better balance between handling and comfort, though the ride might still feel firm on rough patches due to its off-road focus.
Spacious Cabin With High-Tech Goodies
Inside, the Compass 2026 feels more premium and spacious. The longer wheelbase adds 55 mm of rear legroom, making it comfier for passengers, while front storage gets a 34-liter boost, and the boot now holds 550 liters—45 liters more than before. You also get Level 2 ADAS with features like semi-automatic lane change, a head-up display, Matrix LED lighting, and mobile phone access for remote controls. Comfort features include ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and aluminium accents across the cabin, though some might find the lack of physical buttons for climate controls a bit annoying.
Keeps Your Costs In Check
The electric Compass 2026 is a money-saver in the long run. With a 650 km range, it costs about ₹0.5 per km to run (assuming ₹3/kWh charging cost in India), compared to ₹5 per km for a diesel SUV at ₹90/litre. That’s a saving of over ₹50,000 a year if you drive 30 km daily. The hybrid versions might get around 15-20 kmpl in real-world use, depending on how much you rely on the electric motor. Being BS6 Phase 2-compliant, it’s cleaner for the environment, and Jeep’s push for electrification aligns with global sustainability goals. Some feedback on similar electric SUVs suggests range can drop to 500 km in heavy traffic or with aggressive driving, but for most city commutes, it’s more than enough.
Price And Availability In India
The Compass 2026 is launching in Europe in Q4 2025, with production starting in Melfi, Italy. North America gets it in 2026, but Stellantis has confirmed it won’t come to India due to commercial viability issues. Instead, India will stick with the facelifted current-gen Compass, which starts at ₹18.99 lakh ex-showroom and goes up to ₹32 lakh for top trims like the Trailhawk. Delivery for the current model takes 15-30 days, and festive deals in May 2025 might include discounts up to ₹1 lakh—check local Jeep dealers for offers.
Cars It Competes With
In India, the current Compass takes on:
Hyundai Creta (₹11.00 lakh): 115 bhp, 15 kmpl, more affordable but less rugged.
Skoda Kushaq (₹10.99 lakh): 115 bhp, 19 kmpl, premium cabin but no electric option.
Tata Harrier (₹14.99 lakh): 170 bhp, 16 kmpl, similar power but no hybrid or EV.
The Compass 2026’s electric range and off-road capability would’ve made it a unique contender, but for now, Indian buyers will stick with the diesel and petrol versions, which still offer solid off-road chops with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating from 2017.
What You Should Know Before Buying
The current Compass in India starts at ₹18.99 lakh, making it a premium pick, but the lack of the 2026 electric model means you’re missing out on the 650 km range and 375 bhp performance. At 1265 kg, it’s manageable, but the 200 mm ground clearance might scrape on rough trails—something to watch for on off-road trips. The diesel version gets 14-16 kmpl in real-world use, dropping to 12 kmpl in heavy traffic. It’s a 5-seater, but the rear is best for two adults. The absence of a diesel-auto combo in 4x2 versions might annoy some, and some owners note the 9-speed auto can feel sluggish compared to electric drivetrains. Jeep’s service network in India is decent but not as widespread as Hyundai or Tata, so repairs might take longer in smaller towns.
Who This Car Is For
The current Compass in India is for adventure lovers and premium SUV buyers who want a rugged 5-seater with 14-16 kmpl mileage and strong off-road capability. Its safety features and diesel power make it great for mixed terrains, while the premium cabin suits city drives. The 2026 model would’ve been perfect for eco-conscious buyers wanting an electric SUV with off-road chops, but it’s not coming to India. It’s not for those needing a spacious rear seat, a budget-friendly option, or a fully electric SUV in India right now.
Where To Find It
In India, you can get the current Compass at Jeep dealerships like Landmark Jeep in Mumbai or Torque Jeep in Delhi. Book online through Jeep India’s website. Metro cities get delivery in 15 days, smaller towns in 30 days. Festive deals in May 2025 might include discounts—check for colors like Brilliant Black.
Jeep Compass 2026: A Future-Ready SUV
The Jeep Compass 2026 has electric options with up to 650 km range, 375 bhp, and starts at €35,000 in Europe. You get Level 2 ADAS, a 16-inch touchscreen, and rugged off-road capability. India misses out on this model, sticking with the diesel Compass at ₹18.99 lakh, which still offers solid performance and safety in 2025. Perfect for those who want a premium SUV with a bit of adventure flair, but electric fans in India will have to wait for Jeep’s next move.
Disclaimer: Specs and prices are based on recent reports. Check with Jeep dealers for the latest details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Engine Does The Compass 2026 Have?
It’s got electric options with 213 to 375 bhp, a 145 bhp 48V hybrid, or a 195 bhp plug-in hybrid, all on the STLA Medium platform. India keeps the 2.0L diesel with 170 bhp.
How Far Can The Compass 2026 Go On One Charge?
The electric version claims 650 km (WLTP), but expect 500-550 km in real use, depending on driving style.
How Much Does The Compass Cost In India?
The 2026 model isn’t coming to India, but the current Compass starts at ₹18.99 lakh ex-showroom, around ₹21 lakh on-road in Delhi.
