The upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit for a stiff and more mass-efficient structure, and it is designed and built with an extensive use of high-strength steel and liberal use of structural adhesives. More than 65percent high-strength steel is used for maximizing vehicle dynamics and crash performance while optimizing weight efficiency. India will get the Jeep Compass with two engine options. The first is a 2.0 litre Multijet diesel motor developing 170 horsepower and 350 Nm torque. It will be sold in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations. The diesel will initially come only with a 6 speed manual gearbox. The other engine is a 1.4 litre MultiAir petrol unit developing 160 horses and 250 Nm torque. The petrol will also be sold in 4×2 and 4×4 versions. Transmissions include a 6 speed manual and 7 speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.

The Jeep Compass gets over 50 safety features. These include six airbags including dual stage passenger airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Steering Torque (DST), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Adaptive Brake Lights and Panic Brake Assist.