The 2008's identity crisis is partly solved, but as this is a mild update rather than ground-up rebuild, it was never going to be the CX-3 killer product planners dream about. With the new engine and transmission, though, the range is more appealing and easier to make sense of. It retains what made the car so original at launch, with the polarising i-Cockpit, clever-on-a-budget interior detailing and, as it turns out, it's a tough customer loved by rural folk. All of this won't rocket the Frenchie to market leadership, but it puts it in the mix where it was previously too confusing an idea for many buyers.
Pros New engine and trans combo Interior still cool CarPlay across the range
Cons Tight rear seats Grumbly engine at low revs Some cheap plastics
Previously overlooked small SUV gets a dose of credible performance from its new drivetrain.One of the legacy products from PSA (Peugeot and Citroen), the 2008 has been hamstrung since its local launch in 2013 by a poor selection of drivetrains. That is now resolved with the introduction of a facelifted model powered by the sparkling 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission. A reversing camera and new connectivity technology further enhance the 2008 package, all for no more than $1000 extra at entry level. In the 2008 the new engine is quieter still than it was in the light hatch. The engine rarely made its presence felt in the SUV unless it was under load, accelerating up hill, for instance – when its distinctive three-cylinder warble could be clearly heard.
The new-look 2017 Peugeot 2008 has arrived,with the more muscled looking mini SUV axing its diesel engine offering and adding new safety and technology equipment. The new model range is a petrol only affair, with the brand’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission aimed at appealing squarely at the majority of front-wheel-drive SUV buyers. Styling wise, the revised 2008 sees the adoption of the brand’s family look, with a more pronounced grille, more angular bumper and revised headlights and tail-lights. The GT-Line model stands out from the other models with extra body cladding, black exterior highlights and more.
The 2020 Jeep Compass receives several minor updates this year. The majority of the changes include newly available features for the cheapest Compass—the base Sport model. It can now be ordered with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and more with the Safety and Security package. Likewise, the Advanced Safety package unlocks even more desirable content such as adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, forward-collision warning, a leather steering wheel, and more.
Pros Truly capable off-road, copious technology options, handsome Jeep styling.
Cons Clumsy automatic transmission, easily becomes overpriced, just get a Jeep Cherokee.
The 2020 Jeep Compass comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed manual.Minor revisions to feature availability.
PROS Roomy seating for such a small vehicle Tech interface is attractive and easy to use Trailhawk version is highly capable off-road
CONS Four-cylinder engine's weak power delivery Limited cargo space Nine-speed transmission's sluggish response
The 2019 Jeep Compass stays true to the brand’s off-road formula, but bends toward usability rather than capability.
Pros Handsome exterior Generous, standard 7.0-inch touchscreen Rugged Trailhawk option Good customization options Respectable fuel economy, for now
Cons Indecisive 9-speed automatic Active safety features a spend-up option Mixed crash-test scores Three will fit in the back in a pinch, literally