Jeep Compass to be launched in India in 3 variants; exports from Ranjangaon plant to start by 2017 end

American utility vehicle maker Jeep in association with its parent company Fiat Chrysler Automobiles rolled out its first 'made in India' vehicle, a Compass SUV from Ranjangaon plant on June 1. The FCA plant in Maharashtra will be the hub for right-hand-drive Compass intended for RHD markets such as Japan, South Africa, Australia and the UK.

Also read: India-spec Jeep Compass SUV: A closer look

Along with the commencement of production, FCA has revealed some details on the India-spec compass scheduled to enter the domestic market before September. The most affordable SUV of the UV specialist for India will be sold in three variants: Sport, Longitude and Limited. The company has also said shipping for RHD markets will start in the last quarter of 2017. Booking for the SUV is expected to begin from July.

FCA has previously confirmed India-spec model's specifications. The Compass will be powered by a 2.0-litre MultiJet diesel engine and a 1.4-litre MultiAir turbo petrol engine options. The diesel mill will develop 170hp and 350Nm of torque mated to a six-speed manual transmission 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.

The 2017 Compass features an unmistakable Jeep design, highlighted with the signature seven-slot grille finished in gloss black. The SUV also gets a contrasting roof colour that gives it a floating effect. Higher variants of the Compass are expected to be loaded with 7.0-inch Uconnect infotainment system which supports navigation, Google Android Auto and Apple Car Play. On the safety side, Compass will flaunt as many as six airbags. It will be complemented with a reverse camera including sensors, ABS, ESP, electronic roll-over mitigation and hill-start assist.

Pricing is the key factor that will decide the fate of Compass in India. Since Compass is expected to become the volume driver for Jeep and FCA in India, expected price hovers around Rs 18-25 lakh, ex-showroom.