When one thinks of Jeep, the image that usually comes to mind is that of a rugged, fully capable off-road vehicle. Yet the legendary marque knows that in order to compete, it must tread on new ground, such as the fiercely-fought compact Sport Utility Vehicle segment. Thus we have vehicles such as the new Jeep Compass.
Set to make its Philippine debut and preview at this year’s Manila International Auto Show, the new Jeep Compass combines the stylish lines of a CUV with the toughness of an off-road ready Jeep. Yes, this thing may look sculpted from the outside. Yet it promises to be as tough as nails underneath.
The chiseled flanks are complemented by that trademark slatted grille up front that gives it a family face. The wheel arches and other cues also help tie it in with the rest of the lineup, such as the new-generation Jeep Wrangler, Cherokee, and Renegade that will also make at appearace at the show.
Inside, the form meets function theme continues with shapes that are inviting to the senses yet still have a sense of purpose. The main attraction here is the multi-info display that sits proudly atop the center stack. This helps users navigate thru various vehicle and infotainment functions while on the go. And being a Jeep, a slew of storage options lets occupants stow all their knickknacks when heading out on their journey.
Speaking of heading out, the rigid structure promises excellent on-road manners and of course, tried and tested off-road prowess. One can tool round in the city and the highway on the weekday commute and venture out into the great outdoors on the weekend without fuss. It’s the best of both worlds, so to speak.
Expect to see the new Jeep Compass hit Philippine roads this August. Pricing, engine choices, and other details will be revealed closer to the launch. As for MIAS 2019, it runs from today, April 4, until Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
