2017 Jeep Compass Trailhawk

2017 Jeep Compass All New Trailhawk Sport Utility 4D: Rugged Capability Meets Everyday Comfort

The 2017 Jeep Compass All New Trailhawk Sport Utility 4D brings a distinctly adventurous personality to the compact SUV segment. Redesigned for 2017, the Compass combines Jeep's familiar rugged character with a more refined cabin, modern technology, and genuine four-wheel-drive capability.

The Trailhawk trim is particularly appealing to drivers who want an SUV that can handle more than paved streets. With its elevated ground clearance, specialized terrain settings, protective skid plates, tow hooks, and four-wheel-drive system, this Compass is built with outdoor exploration in mind while remaining comfortable enough for everyday commuting.

Under the hood is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder MultiAir gasoline engine producing 180 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 175 lb-ft of torque at 3,900 rpm. Power is delivered through a nine-speed 9HP48 automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. The combination provides useful low-speed control when tackling challenging terrain while giving the Compass relaxed cruising manners on the highway. Its listed fuel economy is 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, with an approximately 13.5-gallon fuel tank.

Trailhawk Off-Road Capability
The Trailhawk designation is where this Compass truly separates itself from an ordinary compact crossover. It features nearly an additional inch of ground clearance compared with standard Compass models, giving the SUV more room to pass over rocks, ruts, and uneven surfaces. Functional skid plates provide additional protection underneath, while the distinctive red tow hooks emphasize its trail-oriented design and provide useful recovery points.

Jeep's Select-Terrain system further enhances its off-road versatility. Drivers can choose settings designed for conditions such as snow, sand, and mud, while the Trailhawk receives an exclusive Rock mode for particularly demanding terrain.

The system works with the four-wheel-drive hardware to optimize traction and throttle response according to the surface. A low crawl ratio also helps the Compass maintain controlled progress over steep grades and obstacles. Rather than relying solely on momentum, the Trailhawk can hold first gear through its 4WD low setting, giving the driver better control during slow climbs and descents.

The Trailhawk also offers practical towing ability. Depending on the specific configuration and equipment, towing capacity can reach 2,000 pounds, while the supplied equipment information lists a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 pounds. Buyers should verify the vehicle's actual tow rating from its VIN-specific equipment and documentation before towing.

Engine, Transmission, and Driving Experience
The 2.4-liter MultiAir four-cylinder delivers a useful balance of everyday performance and efficiency. Its 180 horsepower is well suited to commuting, highway driving, and light recreational use, while the 175 lb-ft of torque gives the Compass enough response for moderate off-road situations. The nine-speed automatic transmission provides a broad range of gearing, helping the SUV maintain smooth highway cruising while offering lower gears when additional control is needed.

On paved roads, the Compass Trailhawk is surprisingly composed. Its quiet cabin and comfortable ride make it a practical choice for daily transportation, even though its appearance and mechanical hardware are clearly aimed at adventure. The elevated seating position provides a commanding view of the road, which is particularly useful in traffic and when navigating narrow trails.

Exterior Styling
The 2017 Compass Trailhawk has an unmistakably Jeep-inspired appearance. Its styling incorporates cues reminiscent of the larger Grand Cherokee while maintaining compact proportions. Chunky body cladding, black alloy wheels, dist