Jeep Compass Trailhawk 2022-2023

The Jeep Compass on which the Trailhawk is based on is offered as a mid-sized SUV that rivals the cars like the VW Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson, Citroen C5 Aircross etc. Having said this, most of the mid-sized SUVs currently are not being offered with hard-core 4X4 off-roading capabilities and it is the Trailhawk that is exclusively available as a premium and a capable mid-size SUV in the market at this price point. However, if you are looking at something that is even better at off-roading and boasts a more capable setup, the Mahindra Thar and the Force Gurkha can be better alternatives, but not as premium of course. Right now, there is no direct rival to Trailhawk. 

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk gets a comfortable 5-seater cabin and now is offered with an updated cabin and a new dashboard layout. Having said this, the SUV now gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen system, a new steering wheel and a digital customisable 10.25-inch instrument console. What remains exclusive to the Trailhwak are all-black seat covers with red contrast stitching and Trailhawk badging in the centre. The same black-red finish is seen on the dashboard and the steering wheel. 

On the features front, the SUV is offered with a 360-degree camera system, a large panoramic sunroof, powered and ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, front arm-rest, push-button start, auto-dimming IRVM, steering mounted controls, etc. In addition to this, what we also get with the new Compass Trailhawk are more driving modes that alter the performance of the vehicle by a fair margin. The rivals however do offer better in-cabin space while the boot space too is commendable. Trailhawk not only gets you out of tough situations but also offer premium interior that helps you in driving long distances without getting tired

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk is offered with only one diesel engine. This 2.0-L diesel engine churns out 170 bhp and has a peak torque output of 350 Nm. This engine comes mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox that channels the power to all four wheels via an extremely capable four-wheel-drive system. Having said this, while the gearbox may not be fast with its shifts, the diesel motor has enough grunt on offer. The SUV picks up pace effortlessly and will leave owners impressed with its accelerations. It also efficient, delivering over 16kmpl at highway speeds of 90-110 km/h. It is also a reliable motor and iterations of the same are seen in the Harrier, Safari and Hector. 

While the higher kerb weight of the Jeep Compass Trailhawk takes a toll on the outright performance, the low-end pull is impressive. Speaking of the capabilities, the Compass Trailhawk boasts a 30-degree approach angle, 24-degree ramp break-over angle and 34-degree departure angle. The SUV also gets a 20:1 crawl ratio and features a built-in low ratio gear that helps it efficiently deliver power to the wheels. The new Rock driving mode further helps in improving the off-roading capabilities of the Jeep Compass Trailhawk.  

The Compass has always been engaging to drive SUV in the segment and boasts impressive dynamics. The steering is not only direct but also offers a decent feel and feedback while it does weigh up as the speedometer climbs. Having said this, the ride has now become softer, all thanks to the smaller 16-inch alloy wheels and raised suspension height. The body roll is well controlled and the enthusiasts will enjoy driving the Trailhawks. Off the road, the ride quality remains impressive and all the bad sections are absorbed really well. 

The braking performance is decent for a car of this size and the Trailhawk retains its composure under heavy braking. At highway speeds too, the Compass Trailhawk continues to impress us and stays glued to the road. You won't hear the suspension thud, even on the bad roads. Having said this, the Compass is a sorted offering and will not leave you disappointed when it comes to driving dynamics. Compass Trailhawk offers a balanced ride quality

The Trailhawk is offered in only one top spec version. While the Jeep Compass does offer a well-built setup, the car is yet to be crash-tested. Having said this, the Jeep Compass is offered with 6 airbags, Rain Brake Support, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Auto Hold, Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), Antilock Braking System (ABS), electronic parking brake (EPB), adaptive brake lights, All-speed Traction Control System (TCS), ISOFIX mounts, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill Start Assist, 360-degree camera, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and Underbody Skid Plate Protection.  It is quite safe for its segment!

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk comes out to be a great offering in the market with its premium, capable, and comfortable package. The SUV not only boasts a long list of features and capabilities but in addition to this, is also offered with a powerful powertrain that helps it tackle most of the off-road obstacles easily. Having said this, the Compass Trailhawk is expensive and lacks the VFM price tag. The rivals in the market are not only more affordable but also offer a better package with better capabilities. It does not has a direct competition as such!