2026 Jeep Compass Revealed: Hybrid and Electric Models Delivering Up to 375 HP
While Jeep remains fundamentally an American marque, its footprint has significantly expanded internationally over recent years. By prioritizing Europe for its latest model launch, Stellantis is clearly aiming to tap into global markets and lessen its dependence on North America. The third-generation Compass is set to debut in European nations later this year before rolling out to other regions.
Although the Compass retains some of its traditional exterior elements, it represents a complete overhaul from its previous generation. Moving away from the old Fiat-Chrysler architecture, the new model is built on the STLA Medium platform, which Stellantis has also employed for vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 and 5008, the Opel Grandland, and the new Citroën C5 Aircross. Measuring 179.1 inches in length, the new Compass is 6.1 inches longer than its predecessor, distinguishing itself from the older Renegade and the even smaller Avenger not available in the US market.
The Compass maintains Jeep's signature boxy design, standing out amidst the more rounded compact SUVs. It features flatter headlights alongside a redesigned eight-slot grille, while the X-shaped taillights converge in the center, complemented by a light bar with an illuminated Jeep emblem. The rugged appearance is preserved with ample plastic body panels and angular wheel arches. Enhanced visibility is achieved through larger quarter glass windows.
Top models will sport a contrasting black roof, matrix LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof. Jeep plans to offer the Compass with two-tone, 20-inch wheels, though smaller alloys are recommended for off-road adventures. Speaking of off-roading, the four-wheel-drive variants boast a maximum ground clearance of 7.9 inches, a 20-degree approach angle, 15-degree breakover angle, and a 26-degree departure angle. Additionally, these models can ford water up to 18.5 inches deep and come standard with a hill descent control system.
Advanced Interior and Space
The interior of the new Compass signals a significant departure from previous models. Even the base variant is equipped with a sprawling 16-inch touchscreen and a fully digital 10-inch driver display. Despite the expansive digital interfaces, Jeep retains several physical buttons on the center console, including a red Selec-Terrain switch and an electronic parking brake, alongside the traditional rotary gear selector.
With the increased size, rear passenger space has grown by 2.2 inches, and overall storage capacity has expanded by 1.6 cubic feet. The cargo area behind the standard 40:20:40 split rear bench now offers 19.4 cubic feet of space. Notably, the electric versions do not feature a front trunk.
Hybrid and Electric Performance
The 2026 Compass is available with mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains tailored for the European market. The entry-level model generates 145 horsepower from a gasoline engine paired with 48-volt technology. The plug-in hybrid variant delivers 195 horsepower, while the electric options range from 213 horsepower in the front-wheel-drive version to a robust 375 horsepower in the all-wheel-drive top model. The highest trim includes a newly developed rear motor exclusive to Jeep, enabling the SUV to tackle a 20% incline even when the front wheels have no traction.
Jeep claims a maximum range of 404 miles (650 kilometers) on the WLTP cycle for the dual-motor AWD model, though details about the battery capacity are not provided. The single-motor front-wheel-drive electric variant, equipped with a 74.0-kilowatt battery, is expected to achieve 311 miles (500 kilometers) per charge.
To achieve these impressive range figures, engineers have implemented a fully flat underbody, aerodynamically optimized wheels, and active grille shutters in the front bumper. For quicker charging, the vehicle supports 160-kilowatt DC fast charging, capable of replenishing the battery from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
Availability and Market Launch
Pre-orders for the new Compass are already being accepted in Europe, with a limited-time First Edition available. Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of the year, following the start of production at the Melfi plant in Italy. By choosing not to offer a diesel variant—a fuel type that once dominated over 50% of the European market for this model—Jeep is clearly moving away from traditional internal combustion engines.
The release date for the American market hasn't been announced yet, but it's anticipated to launch next year as a 2027 model year vehicle. The US version is expected to be manufactured at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario. However, Stellantis has recently suspended all operations at this facility as it reevaluates its strategy for the Canadian plant. We have reached out to Jeep for more information and will update this article once details become available.