Jeep Unveils 2017 Compass

If it drives as good as it looks, it would seem that Jeep has finally got its compact crossover right.

Jeep Compass

The first generation Jeep Compass had its unveiling at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. But aside from a pair of round headlamps and the brand's signature 7-slot grille, it could've belonged to any number of brands. Not only did it lack heritage, it was also found to be wanting in the handling and performance departments.

It was, as my daughters would describe it, a hot mess.

A refresh in 2011 that aligned its styling with that of the Grand Cherokee at least brought its looks in line with the rest of the brand and sales of the small crossover soared in response.

But after nine long years, it was time for a reboot which took place earlier this week at the 2016 LA Auto Show.

2017 Jeep Compass

For the 2017 model year, Jeep's Compass gets a total makeover as it moves from the Chrysler PM/MK platform to the company's FCA Small Wide (4x4) architecture that underpins everything from the Alfa Romeo MiTo (in fwd guise) to the current Jeep Renegade.

2017 Jeep Compass exterior

As you might expect, not a single body panel is carried over from the first-generation model.

Aside from the ever-present slotted grille (now with chrome slots set in a black field), the exterior styling cues align it even more closely with the Grand Cherokee. There's a clamshell hood featuring a double break line and center bulge and fenders that feature more aggressive wheel arches. Options include a gloss black painted roof and a dual-pane sunroof.

The new body structure (the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit) is comprised of more than 65 percent high-strength steel for improved rigidity, while the fully independent suspension features a Koni frequency damping front and rear strut system.

2017 Jeep Compass interior

An all-new interior design features a myriad of soft-touch surfaces as well as Jeep's trademark Trapezoidal center stack housing a 5-, 7-, or 8.4-inch touchscreen, depending on trim level and option package. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is Uconnect along with 4 systems offered depending upon the system chosen - Uconnect 5.0, 7.0, 8.4 and 8.4NAV.

A new center console will house everything from gear-shift selection, Selec-Terrain controls, electronic parking brake and engine stop-start controls to climate and volume control knobs. Media charging and connectivity ports will reside within the console cubby bin.

2017 Jeep Compass engine

Although the 2017 Compass will be available with a total of 5 engines (3 gasoline, 2 diesel) in various world markets, buyers in the U.S. will get just one – FCA's venerable 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-4.

That engine, however, can be mated to a veritable smorgasbord of drivetrain options.

For one, three transmissions will be offered.

A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on both 4x2 and 4x4 models. The automatic transmission on 4x2 models will be a six-speed. In addition, all 4x4 models equipped with an automatic will feature a nine-speed transmission.

Finally, customers can choose from two 4x4 systems, either of which can send 100 percent of available torque to any one wheel. Both also include Selec-Terrain that provides either 4 or 5 modes (depending on the model) for both on- and off-road conditions. Both systems also come with a disconnecting rear axle and power take-off unit for improved fuel economy as well as Selec-Speed Control with Hill-descent Control on Trailhawk models.. Those systems are:

Jeep Active Drive full-time 4x4 system with auto, snow, sand and mud modes.

Jeep Active Drive Low full-time 4x4 system with auto, snow, sand, mud and, on the new-for-Compass Trailhawk model, rock mode. This system also includes a 20:1 crawl ratio.

In addition to Trailhawk, Sport, Latitude and Limited trims will be offered.