The automotive world is buzzing with anticipation as the third-generation Jeep Compass has been prematurely revealed through leaked online photos. Just ahead of its official unveiling next week, these images offer a sneak peek at what Jeep has been cooking up. While Jeep plans to officially present the all-new Compass shortly, the leaked images give us a head start in exploring the updated design and features. This new model is expected to share its core components with other vehicles under the Stellantis umbrella, promising a blend of familiar engineering and fresh innovation. The European market is slated to receive the new Compass with a variety of powertrain options, including mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions, marking a significant step towards electrification for the brand.
The leaked images, originally shared by QuatroRodas, highlight a significant shift in the design language of the new Jeep Compass. Compared to its predecessor, the new model sports a more angular and boxier appearance, giving it a decidedly more rugged aesthetic. However, despite the tougher looks, it’s unlikely that this redesign will translate into enhanced off-road capabilities. The new Compass is built on the STLA Medium platform (formerly known as EMP2), which it shares with other on-road-focused crossovers like the Peugeot 3008 and 5008, the Opel Grandland, and the new DS flagship. This platform choice suggests that the focus remains primarily on on-road comfort and performance, rather than tackling challenging terrains.
One of the most exciting aspects of the new Compass is its diverse range of powertrain options. In Europe, the vehicle will be available as a mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and a pure electric vehicle. Interestingly, the leaked photos suggest minimal visual differences between the combustion engine and electric versions, with the electric variant distinguishable mainly by a subtle ‘e’ badge on the tailgate. The pure electric Jeep Compass is expected to borrow its motors and batteries from its Peugeot counterparts. This could mean an all-wheel-drive configuration with around 321 horsepower, although a front-wheel-drive base version is also likely. Battery options may include 73 kWh or 98 kWh packs, although the larger battery might not be available with the all-wheel-drive setup, similar to the Peugeot e-3008 and e-5008. The longest-range Peugeot e-3008, featuring a 231 hp front-wheel-drive configuration and the 98 kWh battery, boasts a WLTP-rated range of up to 434 miles (700 km), positioning it as one of the leading electric crossovers in terms of range in the European market. If the plug-in hybrid powertrain mirrors that of its platform mates, the Compass could feature a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 195 hp, exclusively in a front-wheel-drive configuration.
While Europe is gearing up for the arrival of the new Compass, its future in the North American market remains uncertain. Plans to produce the new Compass in Canada by February 2026 have been put on hold due to concerns over tariffs. With the European models being manufactured at Stellantis’ Melfi factory in Italy, importing them to the United States seems unlikely due to potential import duties. Unlike in Europe, where the smaller Renegade serves as the entry-level Jeep, the Compass is positioned as the gateway to the Jeep lineup in the U.S. However, the prospect of facing significant import tariffs on models built in Canada or Italy presents a challenge for Jeep. The previous generation Compass was produced at Stellantis’ factory in Toluca, Mexico, but production ceased in April due to a 25% tariff on vehicles imported from Mexico. As Jeep navigates these complex trade and production considerations, the fate of the Compass in the U.S. market hangs in the balance. The official unveiling next week may provide more clarity on Jeep’s plans for North America.
