ANCAP: Five stars for new Jeep Compass
BY ROBBIE WALLIS | 21st Dec 2017
As part of ANCAP’s updated testing protocols, from January 1 all vehicles not fitted with AEB as standard will be ineligible for a five-star rating – making Jeep’s second-generation Compass likely the last vehicle to be awarded full marks without the safety technology.
However, AEB and lane support systems are currently offered in the Compass, but only for the more expensive Limited and Trailhawk variants for $2450 as part of the Advanced Technology Group package.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Australia president and CEO Steve Zanlunghi said the problem would be rectified by offering the driver assist technologies across the range.
“At Jeep we are committed to safety and are pleased with ANCAP’s 5 star rating on Compass,” he said.
“We also acknowledge the need to continually evolve our safety and packaging offerings to ensure we are aligned with the highest industry standards. As such, we are pleased to advise that we are making autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning available across the entire Compass range.
“Safety is a critical priority for customers when choosing a vehicle and we are very pleased that the new Compass can provide owners this peace of mind.”Despite the lack of range-wide AEB however, the Compass managed an impressive overall score of 35.93 out of 37, or 97 per cent with generally strong results recorded across the board.
A score of 14.93 out of 16 was awarded for the frontal offset test, with ‘good’ protection recorded for both front passengers’ head, upper legs and driver’s feet, while ‘acceptable’ ratings for all other areas.
Both the side impact test and pole test resulted in full points being awarded, while the whiplash test offered ‘good’ protection.
The Compass scored 29.01 out of 36 for the pedestrian protection test, with the bonnet offering mostly ‘good’ or ‘acceptable’ protection, while the upper and lower grille scored full points of adult leg protection.
Full points were awarded for seatbelt reminders, while electronic stability control is fitted as standard.
