2007 Jeep Compass Review

Jeep has the same iconic brand name as Coca-Cola, so it makes sense that DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler unit is bringing out new models to expand the Jeep line.

But Chrysler knew that to expand the Jeep market would involve introducing more carlike Jeeps, which was tricky if it didn't want Jeep to lose its go-anywhere ("trail-rated" off-road) reputation.

Jeep sells a bunch of trail-rated models, with one of the best known being the Wrangler, which still looks as if it's from World War II.

The new 2007 compact Compass SUV is the first Jeep that isn't trail-rated. It's also the first one with front-wheel drive and a fully independent suspension for carlike ride and handling because it's based on the new Dodge Caliber compact crossover car/station wagon. Both the Caliber and Compass have available all-wheel drive.

Those two vehicles are made at DaimlerChrysler's Belvidere (Ill.) plant, which long made the small Dodge Neon. Production soon begins at Belvidere of the new Jeep Patriot, which will look more rugged with its traditional-Jeep-style square lines than the stylish Compass and offer items such as skid plates to help it safely handle rugged terrain.

However, the Compass is offered with an electronic all-wheel drive system, absent from the Caliber. This system lacks low-range gearing for rough off-road use but can be locked via a small console lever in a 50/50 front-rear torque split to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

In short, you can drive the Compass off road, but not too far off road. However, that's no big deal because most SUV owners don't take their vehicles off road.

The four-door Compass looks like a genuine Jeep, with such Jeep cues as traditional round headlights, seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel openings. But this Jeep looks sleeker than other ones with its all-new silhouette, which includes a steeply raked windshield. Curiously, back door handles are in the rear roof supports, as they have been in several Nissan SUVs for years.

The Compass is targeted at folks who want the Jeep's free-spirited image along with the comfort and roominess of a modern, space-efficient compact car/crossover -- besides fairly good fuel economy. Most Compass buyers are expected to be single or recently married "educated family-oriented professionals" in their early 20s to early 40s (quite a spread!) with a $60,000 median income. It is anticipated that the majority of Compass buyers will be women.

It's easy to slide in and out of the fairly low Compass, and four tall occupants can comfortably sit high, although the center of the roomy back seat is too stiff for comfort and rear headrests partly block driver visibility.

Gauges can be quickly read, and climate controls are large. Sound system controls are small but still fairly easy to use. However, most cockpit storage areas are small.

This Jeep is easy to maneuver and fun to drive. Steering is precise, the ride is supple and handling and braking are good.

The Compass comes with a 2.4-liter, 172-horsepower four-cylinder engine that DaimlerChrysler jointly developed with Mitsubishi and Hyundai. It's a good performer in town, but it delivers average highway performance because the engine isn't very big and this Jeep is fairly hefty for its size at 3,071 to 3,329 pounds, depending on the trim level.

Estimated fuel economy is 25 mpg in the city and 29 on highways with the standard five-speed manual gearbox and 23 and 26 with the responsive, continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that was in my test Compass. The CVT costs $1,000 for the base Sport model and $1,150 for the upscale Limited version. Only 87-octane fuel is required.

The Compass Sport costs $15,425 with front-drive and $17,025 with all-wheel drive. The Limited is $19,580 with front-drive and $21,180 with all-wheel drive.

Happily, all Compass versions have standard antilock brakes with a brake assist feature for surer panic stops, traction control and an anti-skid system with rollover sensors. Also standard are side curtain air bags, although front side air bags cost $250.

Nifty features include a console sliding armrest that moves 3 inches for shorter drivers and has a flip pocket for storing a cell phone. There's also an available 115-volt power outlet, grab handles above all doors with clothes hooks on the rear handles and a removable self-charging lamp in the roof above the cargo area. But items in the open storage bin above the glove box will quickly end up on the floor or front passenger's lap during a quick stop.

Also standard for the Sport are an AM/FM/CD player, tilt wheel, supportive front bucket seats, console, tachometer, rear defroster, split-folding rear seat for added cargo room and 17-inch tires.

The Limited adds cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, height-adjustable driver seat, fold-flat front seat, reclining rear seat, cruise control and 18-inch tires -- besides more exterior glitz such as bright front/rear fascia overlays.

You must move up to the Limited to also get standard air conditioning and power windows, mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry. Almost everyone expects power windows and locks these days in most cars, not to mention air conditioning. But Sport model buyers must get these power accessories in a $2,600 "Luxury package," which includes the height-adjustable driver seat and fold-flat front seat.

However, you can get just the power windows, mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry in a $995 option group for the Sport.

Air conditioning for the Sport is a stand-alone $850 option, and a power sunroof costs $800 for the Sport and Limited. Sirius satellite radio is $195.

Sharp-looking chrome alloy wheels for the Limited are $825. Several upgraded sound systems are offered. One is a $460 Boston Acoustics Premium Sound Group with two unique flip-down speakers in the tailgate that can face rearward for such activities as tailgate parties.

There's only a one-piece tailgate for the moderately high, but wide, cargo opening. The cargo area is decent and can be enlarged by easily flipping the rear seatbacks forward.

It was just a matter of time before DaimlerChrysler decided to expand its Jeep line with a carlike vehicle such as the Compass. It's surprising that the old Chrysler Corp. didn't do that before merging with Daimler-Benz in 1998. 

2007 JEEP COMPASS 

PRICE: $15,425-$21,180

LIKES: Carlike. Nimble. Supple ride. Advanced safety items. Fairly good fuel economy

DISLIKES: Not as rugged as other Jeeps. Average highway acceleration. Manual windows and locks for base model.