Jeep Compass Trailhawk unveiled in India ahead of its launch

- The Compass Trailhawk is a hardcore off-road variant of the mid-size SUV.
- It features Jeep's Active Drive 4x4 drive-train.
- It is powered by a 2.0L BS-VI diesel motor and a ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic gearbox.

Jeep India has officially revealed the Compass Trailhawk in India, ahead of its launch in the country. The Trailhawk is a hardcore off-road version of the SUV, and in Jeep's confines, only select SUVs from the American carmaker are worthy of carrying the 'Trail Rated' moniker. The SUV will go on sale in India in the weeks to come. We expect the Compass Trailhawk to be priced around Rs 26 lakhs (ex-showroom).

At the heart of the matter is a BS-VI compliant 2.0-litre Multijet Turbo II diesel motor that makes 170bhp and 350Nm. The engine is offered with a nine-speed automatic gearbox and Jeep's Active Drive 4x4 drive-train with low-range ratios and a locking rear differential. And in a first for the Jeep Compass range, the SUV also comes with engine start/stop tech to improve its fuel efficiency. According to the company, the Compass Trailhawk has been tested over four lakh kilometres in India across varied conditions.

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk has a ground clearance of 205mm, which presents an increase of 27mm over the standard model. The higher-set air intake offers a water wading depth of 480mm, and the SUV also packs in underbody skid plates, all-weather floor mats and Falken Wildpeak HT all-terrain tyres. Jeep India claims it has worked on improving the vehicle's dynamics and drivability, AC performance and NVH levels. The company has also improved the navigation system for use in rural and urban areas, and refined the voice command systems.

On the outside, the Jeep Compass Trailhawk packs a few cosmetic changes in the form of a black decal on the hood, gunmetal chrome finish to the grille, roof, mirrors and the window beltline. While the rear features the signature Trailhawk red tow hooks, the front hooks have been omitted to comply with the new pedestrian safety norms. On the inside, the car gets all-black interiors with red accents, contrast stitching and 'Trailhawk' badges on the seats.