Jeep Compass Trailhawk Launch In July; Will Debut Diesel Automatic Powertrain In India

The Trailhawk is the Compass’ hardcore off-road variant is likely to be priced at a premium of Rs 2 lakh over the top-spec Limited Plus variant

• Jeep has been exporting the Compass Trailhawk from India for close to a year.

• India-spec Jeep Compass is likely to be a diesel-only model.

• Will get redesigned bumpers, raised ground clearance and a more capable version of Jeep’s 4x4 drivetrain.

• Expected to be priced around Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom).

• Will lock horns with the Hyundai Tucson AWD.

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk has been eluding us for quite some time now. Despite being produced at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Ranjangaon facility for export markets since late 2017, we are yet to see the SUV on our roads. But the wait for the hardcore off-road version of the Compass is about to end as Jeep is likely to launch the Trailhawk variant in July 2019.

When compared to the standard SUV, the Jeep Compass Trailhawk will get a few mechanical changes to make it a better off-roader. While it will be powered by the same 2.0-litre Multijet diesel engine that puts out 173PS of power and 350Nm of torque, the Trailhawk will get a 9-speed automatic gearbox instead of the 6-speed manual seen on other diesel variants of the Compass. The Trailhawk will also be equipped with Jeep’s more advanced 4x4 drivetrain called the Active Drive Low along with an additional Rock driving mode, both of which are not offered in the regular model.

Besides the mechanical changes, the Trailhawk will come with certain visual updates that should enhance its capabilities off the beaten path. Redesigned front and rear bumpers will help improve approach and departure angles when compared to the regular model. Its bonnet will feature a matte black finish in the centre to avoid reflection from the sun while going up steep inclines. Finally, it will get Trailhawk models’ signature Ruby Red tow hooks too. If you happen to miss these not so subtle changes, it will also get ‘Trail Rated’ badges on the front fenders and boot lid.

The Trailhawk will also have an improved ground clearance than the regular Compass’ 178mm figure. The Australia-spec model, which is exported from India, boasts of a ground clearance of 225mm. Expect a similar figure for the India-spec model as well, making it the highest in the mid-size SUV segment.

Like the global model, the India-spec Compass Trailhawk’s interiors will follow an all-black theme with red accents and seats with ‘Trailhawk’ badging. Expect the Trailhawk to borrow features from the top-spec Limited Plus variant, including the 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, panoramic sunroof, eight-way power adjustable driver seat with memory function as well as new ones like front parking sensors, among others.

The Compass Trailhawk is expected to be priced around Rs 2 lakh more then the top-spec Limited Plus 4x4 diesel variant. With a price tag likely to hover around the Rs 25 lakh mark, the Compass Trailhawk will take on the Hyundai Tucson AWD, which is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine mated to an automatic gearbox and costs Rs 26.95 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Besides the Trailhawk, Jeep could also offer the standard diesel model with the automatic four-wheel-drive option (9AT and 4x4) just like it does in Australia. This variant will be suitable for people who don’t want to spend more for the Trailhawk’s off-road goodies but are looking for better off-road capabilities with the convenience of an automatic gearbox.

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Read More on : Compass Automatic