Allpar reader m@ has again provided spy shots to us, taken on the route from Detroit to Chelsea. As usual, Chrysler is using Alfa Romeo bodies for whatever reason, with extra sections welded in, but m@ felt confident that the size and proportions were right for the upcoming Jeep Compass replacement. Compass and Patriot are both to have a shortened 2013 model year, followed by an early and short 2014 model year. That puts the brand-new, sort-of-Dart-based Compass production at January 2014 for the 2015 model year -- or the 2014 model year, if Chrysler chooses to use a different name.

compass 2014 mule

redriderbob, historically a good source, wrote: “Jeep engineers are working closely with Fiat engineers on this project. We will more likely see a diesel version of the replacement Compass/Patriot here in the US and Canada. They are also making sure this new Jeep is more capable then the ones it replaces. Expect for a vehicle that is built to be a 80% on road 20% off road vehicle but still have trail rated offerings.”

An Alfa Romeo version will reportedly be made as well, to accompany the Alfa 4C and an Alfa version of the Challenger.

2014 jeep compass

Chrysler is reportedly going to keep the Compass name, but we suspect this could change. There are two sets of insider comments on the looks of the new car, one saying it would “like the current Patriot in shape and size, mixed just slightly with the soft lines of the old Jeep Renegade and Willys2 concepts,” and the other saying it looks like an Alfa Romeo Giulietta with a Grand Cherokee/Compass front clip.

The Compass/Patriot successor will, like the Liberty/Cherokee replacement, be built on the same basic platform as the Dodge Dart. The “Compatriot” would likely be front wheel drive and all wheel drive, lighter in weight and duty cycle than the Liberty-replacement, and smaller than the Liberty-replacement.