JEEP COMPASS IT'S WHAT'S ON THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS

THE UPDATED 2022 Jeep Compass is here, bringing a lightly refreshed look on the outside and an almost all-new feel in the cabin.

- MIKE STEVENS

Priced from $37,950 before on-road costs, the five-seat Compass starts with the new Launch Edition and ranges through to the top shelf Trailhawk at $51,250.

Power in the Launch Edition, Limited, 80th Anniversary, and S-Limited models is provided by the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that was offered previously, producing 129kW and 229Nm.

At the top of the range, there’s a more compelling 125kW/350Nm 2.0-litre diesel in the Trailhawk – but for that engine, its trim upgrades, and enhanced off-roading prowess, you pay a good deal more.

Front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic are standard for the Launch Edition, but every other Compass variant is treated to the surety of all-wheel drive and a more efficient nine-speed automatic.

On test here is the high-spec $46,950 S-Limited, which, like its siblings, is treated to new looks inside and out.

Outside, there’s slender new headlights, a subtly redesigned take on the iconic seven-slot grille, and a mean new bumper design with deep-set fog lights and a large lower air dam.

Body-colored arches and skirts are new and add a more premium look, while changes at the rear end are limited to a body-colored bumper.

Inside is where the Compass has had its most significant makeover work done. Step in blindfolded and you’d be forgiven for seeing this as an all-new car instead of a tasteful refresh on the second-generation model that launched in 2018.