Redesigned Jeep Compass Will Sell Alongside Old One As 2017 Model

Jeep is set to roll-out its all-new Compass SUV in a big way. The redesigned model is poised to be a big step up from the previous generation, offering the latest features and the promise of greater off-road capabilities.

However, an unusual launch will result in both the old vehicle and new model being sold at the same time. In addition, the new generation will be subject to an abbreviated production run.

So why is Jeep making this decision? Will it be confusing telling both models apart? And what kinds of deals can you expect to see? Here's what you need to know.

New and Old Side-By-Side

In a rather bizarre move, Jeep will be selling the new Compass alongside the old Compass. Both will be sold as 2017 models, with no good way to tell them apart other than what you see visually. For now, one is being called the Compass, while the other is appropriately being called the All-New Compass.

If you find this confusing, we don't blame you. That's because the reason behind this is something you probably wouldn't expect. According to Jeep spokesperson Jordan Wasylyk, the decision was made to unify the launch of the Compass across different parts of the world.

The reason being, other countries have different ways of assigning model years, and they decided not to release the vehicle as a 2017 model in some countries and a 2018 in others.

That's not all, however. The 2017 redesign will be subject to a shortened model year due to an abbreviated production run. Mr. Wasylyk was unable to offer specifics for exactly how long the initial run would be.

As a result, shoppers may end up in an unusual situation in which two completely different vehicles with the same name will be sold side-by-side. To make things more confusing, Jeep has removed any mention of the old Compass online even though shopping websites still show cars in stock.

Hidden Deals

At the moment, there's no way for most shoppers to know that there are up to $5,000 in factory offers on the old Compass. That's because the automaker's Special Offers page has already done away with the previous generation.

Most versions still feature $3,500 cashback, plus a $500 bonus for financing at non-promotional rates. There's even a $1,000 lease conquest bonus for anyone coming from a non-Chrysler lease. Alternatively, you can choose 0% financing for 60 months plus $1,000 cashback.

One local dealer is advertising prices as low as $14,500 based on an original MSRP of $22,285. If you're looking for some of the best deals of the year, now is probably your last chance before the old Compass is completely gone.