(Credit: Stellantis)
Jeep finally unveiled its next-generation Compass SUV this week, featuring fully electric and hybrid options, but it has paused plans to bring it to the US.
Parent company Stellantis is only moving forward with a European launch; the First Edition is available to order now, with deliveries set to begin in Q4 2025. Plans for the 2026 North American production start are now on hold, presumably due to tariffs.
"As we navigate today’s dynamic environment, Stellantis continues to reassess its product strategy in North America to ensure it is offering customers a range of vehicles with flexible powertrain options to best meet their needs," a company spokesperson tells Car & Driver. "As a result, the company has temporarily paused work on the next-generation Jeep Compass, including activities at the Brampton Assembly Plant."
While Stellantis doesn't use the word "tariff" here, it's implied by its reference to "dynamic environment," a pause on only the North American launch, and specific mention of the Brampton plant, which is in Ontario, Canada. It's also the same statement it issued when it paused work on the Jeep Compass in Brampton in February following Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on Mexico and Canada, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Those tariffs were later lowered via an executive order that went into effect on May 3. For automakers, however, it's still "a complicated system of breaks on certain imports of auto parts and components for the next two years," the Free Press notes.
Stellantis also paused manufacturing at plants in Canada and Mexico and temporarily laid off 900 US workers following Trump's April 2 "reciprocal tariff" announcement.
US Consumers Are Missing Out
US shoppers have a few other electric Jeeps to choose from, including the 4xe plug-in hybrid and Wagoneer S, the brand's first fully electric vehicle for the US market.
But Americans are missing out on the new Compass, which comes in a wide range of hybrid and electric powertrains, including a basic hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and three fully electric options ranging from 213hp to 375hp. The top-of-the-line EV trim boasts an impressive 400-mile range with 30-minute charging from 20-80% on a public, level 3 charger.
It's also likely cheaper than the Wagoneer S, which starts at $65,000, and would be a welcome option for mass-market consumers.
Tech-wise, the compact SUV features a 10-inch digital cluster and 16-inch dash, with over-the-air updates, and Level 2 autonomous driving tech. "Safety is another cornerstone of the New Compass, showcased in the First Edition with Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear parking camera," Stellantis says. "The offer also includes a streamlined optional package featuring amenities like ventilated and massaging seats, an open-air sunroof, and semi-automated lane change assistance."
