Jeep Compass: Long Term Update – 29,692km

The onset of monsoons also marks the return of the season for absolute off-roading. The Jeep Compass S is the perfect candidate in our long term fleet currently to rut it out in the slushy terrains of the Western Ghats we live in, which are blessed with ample off-roading spots. Equipped with a full-time 4×4 system, the compass also boasts a 4WD Low transmission which is on point. I didn’t expect the Compass S, a lifestyle SUV, to double up as a go-anywhere vehicle, but it has surprised me pleasantly, on multiple occasions. The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine puts out an impressive 350Nm which is a perfect match to its 4×4 transmission. These figures are enough to take on inclines and slushy terrain with grace. Usually, a 4×4 SUV falls short in providing cabin comfort, but the Compass is equipped with all the bells and whistles that will make your off-roading sessions a pleasant experience. With ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera and an Alpine sound system, it proves to be a welcoming option for novice off-roaders too. Its approach and departure angles help the Compass to navigate through some adventurous terrains, especially if you like gallivanting towards nature and roads less travelled. That said, the approach and departure angles of the S aren’t as good as those on the Trailhawk version of the Compass, which is a bit of a limiting factor. The large cabin and a 438 litre boot enable you to take your whole family on a weekend adventure too.
What stops it from being a hardcore off-roader is its independent suspension setup. This limits its articulation and one has to think a bit before entering tricky off-roading sections. This isn’t a deal breaker though, as the Compass aims to offer the best of both worlds, road and off-road. At this point, just put on some AT tyres and you are a weekend away from playing in the mud like a kid!