New edition is a beacon of hope: Jeep Compass is set to become the brand's best-selling model

The Jeep Compass will enter its next phase at the end of the year. It is set to become the SUV brand's most important model in Europe. The promising new model grows to 4.55 meters and offers noticeably more interior space. And buyers will have a wide choice of drivetrains.

Jeep is aligning its German strategy around the new Compass. The compact SUV series has many fans here and is expected to become the brand's best-selling model in the medium term, according to Jeep CEO Luigi Saia. Production begins in November.

"Until then, the Avenger and the remaining Compass units will carry the business," says Germany boss Luigi Saia. So far, things are going well: Jeep is currently up ten percent in new registrations. "Even more importantly, we've grown by 30 percent in our dealer network," says Saia. He also plans to further boost sales by next year, with the help of sales partners.

Hopeful with a wide range of drive systems

The Compass is a beacon of hope, as it is likely to become the brand's best-selling model in Germany. In its third generation, it switches to Stellantis' "STLA Medium" architecture and, like its predecessor, will be built in Melfi, Italy.

The new edition grows to 4.55 meters and is noticeably larger inside, especially in the second row. Despite the focus on asphalt capability, the brand's DNA remains evident: up to 20 centimeters of ground clearance, large approach, ramp, and departure angles take the edge off off-road driving and visually convey this to the observer.

Jeep has deliberately broadened the powertrain offering for the Compass. The "First Edition" of the SUV will arrive this fall with a 107 kW/145 hp mild hybrid gasoline engine and, for the first time, as a fully electric vehicle with 157 kW/213 hp and front-wheel drive. "At launch, we expect a clear focus on mild hybrids—roughly three-quarters. The share of the fully electric model is likely to be around one-quarter," says Saia.

A plug-in hybrid, another electric variant with a long-range battery, and an all-wheel-drive version with electric drive on both axles are announced for early 2026. With 276 kW/375 hp, this is the top model in the series – and represents the essential 4x4 option for the off-road brand. According to Saia, a variant with all-wheel drive technology is simply a must for any Jeep model.

Europe decides

A strong presence with the Compass is important to the German head. "This segment accounts for almost a quarter of the passenger car market in Europe – visibility, fleet ratios, and margins are determined there." This is precisely why the SUV should once again form the backbone of sales in Germany in the medium term, while the smaller Avenger will tap into new customer groups, and icons like the Wrangler will add emotional appeal to the brand.

Two other upcoming innovations will play a similar role to the off-road veteran: the Recon electric off-roader and the more dynamically designed luxury SUV, the Wagoneer S, also all-electric. The duo will launch in North America at the end of 2025, with Europe following in 2026. For Germany, both models are more about image than volume. Nevertheless, they are also expected to contribute significantly to sales: Saia is aiming for significant growth with its full range by 2026 at the latest.