Key highlights
- New 2.0-litre turbo petrol flex fuel engine produces up to 272 hp in Brazil
- Full-time 4×4 system returns, making this the most powerful Compass yet
- Developed for South America, but the tech has clear global relevance
The 2026 Jeep Compass now gets a Flex Fuel 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that delivers a staggering 272 hp when running on ethanol. Yes, this is still the Compass. And no, this is not a mild update.
The update
The new engine is part of Stellantis’ High Performance Turbo family. It can run on petrol, ethanol, or any mix of the two. On pure ethanol, output peaks at 272 hp, while torque figures sit comfortably north of 400 Nm. 0 to 100 kmph is achieved in just 6.3 secs. Jeep pairs this engine with a nine-speed automatic gearbox and a proper 4×4 system, not a soft road-focused setup pretending to be adventurous.
This powertrain already does duty in performance-oriented Stellantis products in Brazil, but its arrival in the Compass marks a big shift in positioning. The Compass is no longer just the sensible Jeep. It now plays in the enthusiast space too, at least in markets that support flex fuel technology.
Exclusive variant
Jeep offers this setup on the top of the line Blackhawk trim. This version gets terrain management modes, increased ground clearance, and hardware that can actually handle bad roads and worse ideas. This is not a spec-sheet-only upgrade. The mechanical package backs up the numbers.
Visually, the 2026 Compass remains familiar. Jeep has not gone wild with design changes. Expect subtle updates to wheels, badging, and trim-specific elements. The focus here is clearly under the bonnet. Inside, the Compass continues with a tech-heavy layout, large infotainment screens, and a strong safety package. Jeep has not reinvented the cabin, but it did not need to.
Why this makes sense for Brazil
The bigger story is what this engine represents. Brazil’s flex fuel ecosystem allows manufacturers to chase high power without abandoning local fuel realities. Ethanol is widely available and often cheaper. Jeep has used that advantage to build the most powerful Compass ever made.
Naturally, the India question pops up. Will this engine come here? Realistically, no. India lacks flex fuel infrastructure at scale, and emissions compliance would be complex. Still, the message is loud and clear. The Compass platform can handle serious power. And Jeep knows how to make it fun again.
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