By Jonathan Crouch

Introduction

Back in 2021, the MP/552-era model Compass 4xe saw Jeep at last bring plug-in hybrid tech to compete with established rivals in the mainstream mid-sized SUV segment. This isn't the kind of Jeep you'd have ever pictured yourself owning. But might the Compass 4xe be one you could credibly consider? We'll tell you in our used guide.

History

In the last few years, we've had to get increasingly used to the idea of a Jeep you've the option of plug-in. Not necessarily one as a total EV (though that's becoming increasingly common) but various models featuring the brand's '4xe' plug-in hybrid tech. We first saw it with the little Renegade, following which '4xe' versions of the Grand Cherokee and, as here, the mid-sized Compass were launched. The Compass gained the PHEV tech in 2021 as part of a package of wide-ranging updates made to this 'MP/552'-series model, a car just first launched in 2018. That design couldn't have justified this 4xe variant's quite exalted price point in its original form. But with a smarter look and a much improved interior with considerably enhanced media connectivity, it stood more chance against a tough crop of better established volume brand plug-in hybrid rivals. The Compass 4xe sold in this form until mid-2025 when it was replaced by an all-new third generation design.

What You Get

Apart from the badgework, there's no external clue here that this Compass is of the PHEV rather than conventional non-electrified variety. This second generation 'MP/552'-series Compass design was given a darned good wash and brush-up to justify the premium pricing here. There's the usual 7-slot front grille, but flanking it are bolder headlamps featuring full-LED technology. Original buyers could have a contrast colour roof if they wanted, the tail lights are also of the LED kind and the trademark trapezoidal arches can house Iarge wheels of up to 19-inches in size, allowing you to make the appropriate statement in the gym car park. Inside, the cabin features a 10.1-inch 'Uconnect' infotainment central screen that incorporates Alexa integration, automatic over-the-air updates and "Hey Jeep"-activated voice functionality. This monitor also incorporates 'Apple CarPlay' and 'Android Auto' smartphone mirroring wireless technology so that you can connect and access two smartphones at the same time without having to connect a cable Perhaps even more importantly, the interior looks and feels quite European - as perhaps you'd expect given that this model was built in Italy. There's lots of storage space and two adults will be comfortable on the back seat, though it would be a bit of a squash for three. Out back, there's a 438-litre boot. It's annoying though, that you can't flatten to the rear bench without coming round to the side doors.

What to Look For

We've not heard of any issues with the PHEV system on the 4xe, but make sure the car charges properly and that the lead hasn't be run over or damaged. This second generation Compass is actually a better buy than some of the websites would have you believe, but there are certainly things you need to look out for. The main issues we came across concerned electrics. There are problems frequently caused by failing main or auxiliary batteries. Look out for random error messages, the infotainment screen going blank and non-responsive centre console steering wheel controls. In some cases, the vehicle has failed to start. Owners have found that replacing both the main and auxiliary battery at the same time often resolves these issues. Otherwise, the issue might stem from a problem with the Controller Area Network bus and that will require professional attention. We've heard of issues with engine stalling or dying unexpectedly whilst driving. And some owners have experienced start/stop system problems. Transmission issues have been known, with problems like overheating, stuttering when shifting and delayed gear engagement. We've also heard of issues with noisy or grinding brakes. And in some cases, the car might crank when you start it but fail to actually fire up, which highlights issues with the spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel delivery or crankshaft and camshaft sensors. It's unlikely that the car will have been used seriously off road but check underneath just in case. And insist on a fully stamped up service history. Check the alloys for scratches and the interior for signs of child abuse.

Replacement Parts

[based on Compass 1.3 PHEV petrol - 2021 - autodoc.co.uk - ex Vat] It's around £4-£19 for an oil filter. And around £24-£76 for front brake pads. It's around £50-£99 for front brake discs; around £41-£99. A water pump is in the £33-£68 bracket. An air filter is in the £10-£29 bracket. A starter motor is in the £80-£129 bracket. An alternator is in the £160-£181 bracket.

On the Road

You may have read elsewhere that this 2021-era Compass 4xe has the same PHEV powertrain as the smaller Renegade 4xe. Well, yes and no. With most original plug-in Renegades, the four cylinder 1.3-litre petrol engine this powerplant works with is of the lower-output 130bhp variety, with total output of 187bhp. Only the top rarely-chosen Renegade Trailhawk 4xe ever featured this PHEV powerplant mated to that 1.3-litre engine in 178bhp form (total output 237bhp), which is the powerplant combination that features with both MP/552-era Compass 4xe variants. Either way, this set-up features an engine allied to an electric motor on the rear axle, creating a four-wheel drive model with a 6-speed auto gearbox. When fully charged, you can expect up to 30 miles of electric-only driving range when the 11.4kWh battery is fully charged. This PHEV variant offers the usual choice of driving modes that you'd expect with a car of this kind, in this case either electric only, Hybrid or one that enables you to save charge for future use in city driving. As you'd expect from the output figure quoted earlier, 4xe performance is quite sprightly: despite this electrified version's extra kerb weight, it'll hit 62mph in 7.5 seconds. And if you want to attempt any kind of off road traversing in a model of this sort, this Compass 4xe would by far be the best choice thanks to its better traction and body clearance from the ground.

Overall

In its original form, this 'MP/552'-series Jeep Compass model was a car from an American brand with Italian parentage and engineering, made in an Indian factory with an outdated dependence on diesel and none of the powerplant electrification the market was looking for. By 2021 though, everything from the production plant to the smart 10.1-inch Uconnect infotainment screen was unashamedly Italian and under the bonnet of this 4xe model was the plug-in hybrid tech that customers in this class often seem to want. All this came a couple of years too late to really save this model in its segment, but it does provide something appealingly different in this sector for the used buyer. And there's more off piste ability here than you'll find in any rival, though you still wouldn't want to attempt anything too gnarly in one of these. Better to conquer the speed humps of the school run in your Compass 4xe and park it suggestively on the grass verge when it's time for the kids to get out. Jeep means something different these days. And this car encompasses exactly that.