'Tu Vuò Fà L’Americano': Europe’s 2021 Jeep Compass Is An Italian Posing As An American

Jeep has released additional details, photos and videos of its updated Compass SUV which is now built at the Melfi plant in Italy for European markets.

The production location switch from Mexico’s Toluca to Italy’s Melfi results in shorter delivery times of approximately three weeks. The move also coincides with several upgrades, including new engines and transmissions, as well as enhanced tech and connectivity.

Chief among the modifications is a new 1.3-liter turbo-four petrol replacing the previously-available 1.4-liter unit. The power plant is available in two power outputs: 130 PS (128 HP) and 150 PS (148 HP), each with a peak torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft).

The base engine comes hooked to a six-speed manual transmission while the more powerful variant comes exclusively with a seven-speed automatic Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT). Customers in Europe will also be able to opt for an updated version of the 1.6-liter MultiJet II turbo diesel engine with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). The engine makes 120 PS (118 HP) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque in combination with a six-speed manual.

Both petrol engines and the diesel are only offered with front-wheel drive, which means that the only all-wheel-drive models are the two Compass 4xe plug-in hybrids. Combining the 1.3-liter petrol with an electric motor driving the rear axle and a battery, they are available with two system outputs: 190 PS (187 HP) or 240 PS (237 HP).

Powertrain upgrades aside, the 2021 Compass brings improved dynamics thanks to lighter and more progressive steering as well as shock absorbers with FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) valves. The latter are said to reduce body roll and pitch without affecting comfort.

Also on the list of improvements are the new Uconnect Services offered as standard on the 7-inch and 8.4-inch infotainment systems. They include My Assistant, My Car, My Remote, My Navigation, My Wi-Fi, My Theft Assistance and My Fleet Manager.

When it comes to advanced safety features, the 2021 Compass packs Forward Collision Warning and LaneSense Departure Warning as standard across the range, alongside Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), and front, side and curtain airbags. Available systems include Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, and Automated Parallel and Perpendicular Park assist.

Finally, the updated Jeep Compass offers six new alloy wheel designs and five new exterior paints available with an optional black roof. The compact SUV will reach European dealerships later this month, with 4xe models following in the second half of the year.

Note: The title is a reference to Renato Carosone’s 1956 hit song ‘Tu Vuò Fà L’Americano’ (You Want To Be American)