Localized Jeep Compass to hit the market

GAC Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Co is to launch its compact sport utility vehicle, Jeep Compass, late this month, with prices ranging from 170,000 yuan to 240,000 yuan ($24,600 to $34,800).

The model measures 4.4 meters long, 1.8 meters wide, 1.6 meters high and has a wheelbase of 2.6 meters.

GAC Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Co's compact SUV, Jeep Compass is pictured in Sanya, Hainan province, in a test drive from Dec 14 to 16, 2016. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The SUV has two variants. One sports a 1.4 liter turbocharged engine and a seven-speed dual clutch, with its maximum output reaching 121 kW and top torque 250 Nm. It has a comprehensive fuel consumption of 7.3 liters per 100 km.

The other is equipped with a 2.4-liter natural aspirated engine and a nine-speed clutch, generating a maximum output of 128.5 kW and top torque of 227.5 Nm. It has a comprehensive fuel consumption of 8.6 liters per 100 km.

Standard features include stop-start, hill-start assist control, electric power steering, keyless ignition, remote start and electric parking brake.

The Compass, which started pre-sales since the Guangzhou auto show in late November, has received more than 150,000 orders, the automaker said.

The Compass is GAC FAC's third localized model in a year; the others are the Cherokee and Renegade.

One of the fastest growing automakers in China, the company sold 150,000 cars in the first 11 months of 2016, a 309 percent surge year-on-year.