In a glimpse of what’s to come from the iconic American brand, the highly anticipated Jeep Compass EV has been caught testing on public roads for the first time. The fully camouflaged prototype was spotted in Italy, showcasing Jeep’s commitment to electrification as part of parent company Stellantis’ ambitious EV strategy.
Are you ready to witness Jeep’s rugged heritage merge with electric innovation? Despite the heavy disguise, these spy shots reveal significant details about the direction Jeep is taking with its popular compact SUV’s electrified future.
“The transition to electric vehicles represents both a challenge and opportunity for brands with strong heritage like Jeep,” notes an industry analyst tracking the brand’s electrification strategy. “These spy shots suggest they’re finding a compelling balance between traditional Jeep design elements and modern EV requirements.”
What the Spy Shots Reveal about Jeep Compass EV
While carefully camouflaged to hide final design details, the test mule reveals several key elements that distinguish the upcoming Compass EV:
- Familiar Jeep DNA with Electric Touches: A faux grille panel with piano black finish flanked by rectangular LED headlamps maintains the iconic Jeep face while adapting to EV needs.
- More Squared-Off Stance: The prototype exhibits a bolder, more upright profile with shorter overhangs compared to the current model, emphasizing its rugged capabilities.
- Aerodynamic Considerations: The front bumper features a cooling intake with active flaps—a crucial design element for enhancing EV range through improved aerodynamics.
- Larger Dimensions: The new Compass appears noticeably longer than the current generation, suggesting more interior space and potentially larger battery accommodation.
Previous teasers have hinted at sleek LED headlights positioned alongside a revamped seven-slot grille that’s expected to feature illumination—a modern touch that’s become increasingly popular among premium vehicles. The rear design includes reworked taillights with C-shaped LED elements and distinctive “JEEP” branding.
Current vs. New Jeep Compass: Key Design Changes
| Design Element | Current Compass | New Jeep Compass EV (Based on Spy Shots) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Profile | Curved roofline, softer edges | Bolder, more squared-off stance with boxier profile |
| Front Fascia | Traditional grille with cooling | Closed-off piano black panel, likely with illuminated elements |
| Headlights | Wider units | Slimmer, rectangular LED headlamps |
| Dimensions | Compact SUV proportions | Appears longer with shorter overhangs |
| Roofline | Gently sloping | Flatter, more traditional SUV silhouette |
| Wheel Arches | Rounded | Squared-off, emphasizing rugged character |
| Rear Design | Conventional taillights | New C-shaped LED elements with prominent JEEP branding |
| Aerodynamics | Standard SUV elements | Enhanced with active flaps and streamlined design |
Platform Revolution: STLA Medium Architecture
The most significant change lies beneath the surface. The new-generation Compass will abandon its aging FCA-era platform in favor of Stellantis’ cutting-edge STLA Medium architecture. This modular platform is designed specifically to accommodate multiple powertrain options, including:
- Pure electric (BEV)
- Hybrid (HEV)
- Plug-in hybrid (PHEV)
This platform sharing aligns the Compass with other Stellantis models like the Peugeot 3008/5008, Opel Grandland, and DS 8, creating economies of scale while allowing each brand to maintain its distinct character.
Powertrain Expectations: Dual Battery Options
While Jeep Compass EV hasn’t officially revealed detailed specifications, industry sources suggest the Compass EV will likely offer:
- Two battery options: 73 kWh and 97 kWh packs
- Top-spec dual-motor variant with all-wheel drive capability
- Power output potentially reaching 321 horsepower (239 kW) in range-topping models
If these specifications align with the Peugeot e-3008 that shares the same platform, the Compass EV could offer compelling performance while maintaining Jeep’s trademark capability, albeit in a different form than traditional 4×4 systems.
Production Timeline and Market Uncertainty
Production of the new Compass is expected to begin in Italy later this year, with European market introduction following shortly after. However, the North American timeline remains uncertain, with reports suggesting plans for Canadian production in 2026 are currently on hold due to ongoing concerns about potential tariffs on imported vehicles.
For the Indian market, where the current Compass is manufactured for right-hand drive markets worldwide, the future remains unclear. Some reports suggest Stellantis may not bring the all-new Compass to India immediately, though the company has made no official announcement regarding its plans.
What This Means for Jeep’s Electric Future
The Compass EV represents a critical step in Jeep’s broader electrification strategy. As one of the brand’s global volume models, transitioning the Compass to electric power sends a clear signal about Jeep’s commitment to a zero-emission future while maintaining the brand’s adventure-ready positioning.
With competitors like the Kia EV3 already winning accolades and Tesla continuing to dominate the EV conversation, Jeep’s entry into the compact electric SUV segment comes at a pivotal moment for both the brand and the industry.
Also Read: India-UK EV Trade Deal: Luxury for Budget Exchange Proposed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Jeep Compass EV be officially revealed?
A: The new-generation Jeep Compass, including its electric variant, is expected to make its global debut in the coming weeks, likely in late spring 2025, with production starting later this year in Europe.
Q: What platform will the Jeep Compass EV use?
A: The Compass EV will utilize Stellantis’ modern STLA Medium architecture, which is designed specifically to accommodate multiple powertrain options including fully electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid configurations.
Q: How powerful will the Jeep Compass EV be?
A: While official specifications haven’t been confirmed, industry sources suggest the top-spec dual-motor variant could produce around 321 horsepower (239 kW), similar to other Stellantis EVs built on the same platform.
Q: What battery options will be available for Jeep Compass EV?
A: The Compass EV is expected to offer two battery options: 73 kWh and 97 kWh, providing different range capabilities at various price points.
Q: Will the Jeep Compass EV be available with all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, the top-trim versions are expected to feature dual-motor setups providing all-wheel drive capability, maintaining Jeep’s reputation for off-road prowess in an electrified format.
Q: When will the Jeep Compass EV come to the United States?
A: The North American timeline remains uncertain. Reports suggest plans for Canadian production in 2026 are currently on hold due to potential tariff concerns, which may impact the US launch schedule.
Q: Will the current model continue alongside the Jeep Compass EV version?
A: The new-generation Compass will be available with multiple powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants alongside the fully electric version, allowing Jeep to phase out the current model gradually as market adoption of EVs increases.
As Jeep continues its transformation toward an electrified future, the Jeep Compass EV represents a crucial test of the brand’s ability to translate its rugged heritage into the electric era. With its squared-off design maintaining Jeep’s distinctive visual identity while embracing necessary aerodynamic considerations, the Jeep Compass EV could prove that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing brand character—an essential consideration for a nameplate as steeped in tradition as Jeep.
