Jeep Compass diesel automatic to be launched in early 2018; Trailhawk version likely to follow

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) India has confirmed the launch of Jeep Compass SUV in the third quarter of 2017. It was also reported that the most affordable Jeep SUV hit the production line of FCA's Ranjangaon plant last week.

Also read: Jeep Compass to be launched in India in 3 variants

American carmaker has also confirmed the engine line-up for India. The compact SUV will be offered in two engine options -- a 2.0-litre MultiJet diesel and a 1.4-litre MultiAir turbo petrol. The diesel mill will develop 170hp and 350Nm of torque mated to a six-speed manual transmission. If you are waiting for a diesel-powered Compass mated to automatic transmission, there will be no such option at the time of launch.

However, a report in Autocar India claims that Jeep will add automatic transmission option to diesel-powered Compass in early 2018. The gearbox in question will be a nine-speed unit engineered with small gear ratio steps. The diesel Compass will be offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations.

On the other hand, the petrol mill will belt out 160hp and it will also come with 4x2 and 4x4 options. A six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic will be offered with the petrol mill.

An Autocar report also says that Jeep may bring Trailhawk version of the Compass on a later stage. The Trailhawk is basically a beefed up version of the regular Compass. It will boast of raised suspension setup, dual purpose on/off road tyres and skid plates to cover the underbelly.

Blacked out body panels and revised bumpers that housing exposed tow hooks will be the other major additions. It will be powered by the same 2.0-litre MultiJet diesel mill. However, power and torque figures might be tweaked.

The Compass in India will be sold in three variants -- Sport, Longitude and Limited. Since Compass is expected to become the volume driver for Jeep and FCA in India, the expected price hovers around Rs 18-25 lakh, ex-showroom. The company has also said that shipping for RHD markets from Ranjangaon plant will start in the last quarter of 2017.