Patriot Name is Truly Dead as Fiat Chrysler Unveils 2017 Jeep Compass

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has released the first official images of the 2017 Jeep Compass, the solitary model replacing both the original Compass and its slab-sided Patriot compatriot.

Say goodbye to the flag-waving Patriot name, as this is a world model, and global Jeep customers are more familiar with the Compass name. Fittingly, the small SUV’s coming out party was held at its Goiana, Brazil assembly plant.

Riding atop a stretched version of the Fiat Small-Wide platform found in the smaller Renegade, the Compass replaces two endlessly derided vehicles that sold amazingly well, especially over the last two years.

Buyers flocked to the low price and visual Jeepiness of those models, and FCA wants global customers to continue that trend with the twins’ solitary replacement. Production has already begun in Brazil, but American buyers will source their models from Mexico.

Images aside, Jeep remains tight-lipped about what powertrains we can expect in North America. Those details will have to wait until the model’s domestic debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. Jeep did say that the Compass offers “17 fuel-efficient powertrain options for consumers in more than 100 countries around the world,” so start guessing.

The automaker’s stalwart 2.4-liter four-cylinder matched with a nine-speed automatic seems the most obvious choice for a North American volume model, but there are other four-cylinders that Jeep could toss into the mix. That includes the turbocharged 2.0-liter “Hurricane” four bound for the 2018 Wrangler.

The company claims the Compass offers “best-in-class 4×4 off-road capability,” so it’s safe to say you’ll see a few “Trail Rated” badges when the model hits dealer lots in the first quarter of 2017.

[Images: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles]