Jeep has redesigned the interior of the Compass, adding more soft-touch materials and chrome details, to try to improve its premium appeal. Previous Jeeps tended to have unfinished hard plastic edges in places, creating a low-rent feel, but the Compass has a much better finish overall. The instruments and controls are all clear and well laid out, while a substantial leather steering wheel and chrome-detailed gearlever create a reliable, tough, feel – although some of the plastics are still of a dubious quality and feel like they’d be prone to scratching.

The seating is generally comfortable. There’s a good driving position but the steering wheel only adjusts for tilt and not reach. Forward visibility is excellent but rear visibility is unfortunately hampered by the large rear pillars.

Contrary to its rugged look the Jeep Compass comfort levels combined with a decent amount of room for passengers make for a pleasant on-board experience. On the inside the Jeep has enough room for four adults, or five at a pinch. There’s plenty of headroom, even for taller passengers. The back seat also reclines but there’s no rear armrest and the centrally mounted cupholders reduce legroom for anyone sitting in the central seat – a good reason for keeping the journey short when you are carrying three in the rear.

On the move there is a fair amount of road noise and at motorway speeds wind noise becomes increasingly apparent.