Compass joins Jeep lineup
The Jeep brand is a legend in the rough-and-tumble 4x4 world and one of the most recognizable brand names on the globe. The problem is that by 2001 there were just three vehicles in its lineup. Jeep desperately needed to expand. The trick was to attract new buyers without alienating loyal customers.
That’s when Jeep officials channeled the Wisdom of Solomon, dividing their brand in two segments: Jeep Classic and Jeep Modern. The Classic side includes the venerable Wrangler along with the Commander and the soon-to-be-launched Patriot. On the Modern side are the Grand Cherokee, Liberty and the newest addition to the lineup and the spearhead of Jeep’s expansion plan — the Compass.
The Compass is a compact SUV with obvious Jeep lineage. It sports the traditional round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel openings that have defined the Jeep’s rugged mug since the Willys were first built for U.S. troops 65 years ago. However, the new Compass embodies a modern take on the theme with more contoured profile and refined ride.
The Compass was designed to combine the functionality of a sport-ute with the handling, comfort, and fuel economy, all with a price tag similar to a compact sedan or small pickup. Prices for the two-wheel drive Compass Sport begin at $15,985, including $560 destination charges. The up-level Limited starts at $20,240, including destination charges.
Standard equipment on the Sport includes side-curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes, an AM/FM/CD audio system, tilt steering wheel and cloth seats.
Air conditioning, cruise control, reclining rear seats and power windows, mirrors and door locks are available options.
The Limited adds the previous equipment plus leather-trimmed heated bucket seats and 18-inch aluminum wheels with all-season performance tires.
Innovative features include an optional nine-speaker Boston Acoustics premium audio system with two articulating speakers that fold down from the open liftgate; an available self-recharging interior lamp, mounted above the cargo area that doubles as a flashlight; and special soil-repellant and anti-microbial seat fabric that protects seats from stains, odors and discoloration.
Although the Limited has a digital compass readout on the dash, the Sport has no compass whatsoever. When I asked a Jeep product executive about the obvious omission, he said the cost was prohibitive. But how much are those upside-down, snow-globe-type gizmos? Every Compass needs a compass, I say.
A 172-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine powers the Compass. The Limited offers Chrysler’s second-generation continuously variable transaxle (CVT) for a simulated six-speed experience and clutchless manual control.
The new Jeep will also be the first of its brand to be offered in front-wheel drive with a fully independent suspension for more comfortable around-town ride and handling.
The Compass is also the first Jeep to score fuel economy ratings near 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Engineers were able to improve fuel economy by utilizing a dual Variable Valve Timing, tumble valve intake system and a select fit process that reduces the oil weight. The result is a pleasant, powerful engine that earned EPA ratings of 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the 4x4 Compass Sport with the five speed manual transmission. Ratings for the 4WD Limited, with the CVT are 23 mpg city and 26 highway.
Make no mistake; Jeep Modern is not Jeep Light. We recently had a chance to test the Compass’ capabilities at an off-road park near Sand Lake along the Oregon coast. For added traction, we flipped into 4WD lock mode by pulling up on a chrome T-handle on the center console. Unlike many SUVs, the Compass allows the driver to deactivate the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for more hands-on control. While not “trail-rated,” like its Classic brethren, the Compass with the 4WD configuration climbed steep hills of deep sand that few cute utes could tackle.
We put the tires to the test during our drive back to Portland from the coast. Heavy rains lashed at the windshield and made waterways of the roads, but the 4WD Compass Limited held fast to the pavement and was reasonably quiet.
Jeep officials say the compact SUV segment is growing and will continue to grow. Annual compact SUV sales have gone from 297,000 units sold in the U.S. in 2004, to 368,000 units in 2005. That number is projected to double by 2010. To make a dent in this category, the Compass will have to go head-to-head with established favorites such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CRV, Ford Escape and Kia Sportage. With the Jeep heritage to back it up, the only question is will the cult of Jeep fans approve.
The Compass is assembled along side the Dodge Caliber and soon, the Jeep Patriot at the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant.
Look for the first shipments to begin arriving at dealerships in August.