Jeep is all set to launch the Compass Trailhawk in India by next month. We were invited for a first-hand experience of the upcoming 'Trail Rated' SUV, and here are some live images straight from the test grounds.
The Trailhawk-badged Jeep Compass is the most hardcore off-road variant in the entire Compass line-up. In terms of exteriors, it is easily differentiated by the regular Compass with its prominent black anti-glare hood decal, red recovery hook (rear), skid plates, grey window surrounds, 'Trail Rated' badging, distinctive 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and other unique styling bits which highlight its exclusiveness. The Indian-spec Trailhawk misses out on the trademark red tow hooks up front because of the country's latest pedestrian safety norms. It does feature a red tow hook at the rear-end that can pull as much as 1.5 times the vehicle’s gross weight.
Other than this, the other bits which make the Trailhawk variant the toughest Compass of all include its higher set approach, ramp breakover and departure angles which are measured at 26.5 degrees, 21.2 degrees and 31.6 degrees, respectively, all thanks to its new bumper (front and rear) design. Thanks to the repositioned air intakes, the top-spec Compass is capable of water wading up to 483 mm depth. For reference, the regular Compass' water wading depth is rated at 330 mm.
Inside, the Trailhawk variant features an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with onboard navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as a 7.0-inch multi-information display. A panoramic sunroof is optional. Also, the SUV misses out on a powered driver’s seat as well as auto headlights and wipers (available on Compass Limited Plus). Its safety suite comprises features like side and curtain airbags, ESC, traction control, hill-start assist, hill descent control and an electronic parking brake.
Under the hood, the Compass Trailhawk comes with Jeep's first BS-VI 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine which is good enough to deliver 173 PS of maximum power at 3,750 rpm and 350 Nm of peak torque at 1,750-2,500 rpm. This engine comes mated to a newly introduced 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The Trailhawk variant benefits from an engine start-stop system as well.
Exclusive off-road-oriented fitments on the Compass Trailhawk include an Active Drive Low 4x4 system with 20:1 crawl ratio and the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction control system with an additional 'Rock' mode. The top-spec trim also has a higher ground clearance, thanks to its off-road suspension.
Also Read: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon spied in India for the first time
The Jeep Compass Trailhawk is expected to be priced at around INR 28 lakh (ex-showroom).
