On-test: Jeep’s Compass points in many directions

With so many choices, you could be forgiven for thinking the Compass does not know which way to point. FG tested a 4wd Limited 1.4 MultiAir Turbo, and was impressed with the zingy nature of the little petrol engine. Yes, it needs working, but with a nine-speed auto, there is plenty of opportunity to keep the engine between peak torque and maximum power.

One downside we noticed is that the multiple-choice gearbox cannot hide the 1.4-litre engine’s lack of torque. And a lot of gear shifting naturally takes place. It seldom slots into ninth, unless prolonged motorway speeds are maintained.

The interior offers an upmarket feel with more leather-clad and soft-touch materials than hard scratchy plastics. There are a lot of buttons and switches though, which can make the interior look overly complex. The steering wheel is as cluttered as the dashboard, and you will also find buttons on the back of the steering wheel.

For its size, the compass offers a reasonable level of comfort – legroom is more generous than shoulder space – but the over-riding factor is this model does not sit securely on the road. The lightness of the Compass makes it feel aloof and twitchy, rather than planted and stable, and you will find yourself compensating on the steering wheel a little too much.

There is no shortage of technology, which includes an 8.4in touchscreen and smartphone mirroring for Apple and Android units, plus DAB radio and a nine-speaker audio system.

Limited trim level brings heated seats, heated steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, and an optional £650 tow pack was fitted, though its 1,000kg towing capacity could be a little under-whelming for many.