Jeep Compass Minor Change

2011 Jeep Compass

2011 Jeep Compass interior

The year 2011 marks a big minor change on Jeep's compact crossover utility vehicle, the Compass, and this time, the latest minor change made it more like a miniature version of the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee because of the heavily revised front view.

Aside from the new Grand Cherokee-like front view, the Compass' interior is heavily redesigned and made it more sophisticated for people who want to find adventures in the urban jungle. Attached is the new Uconnect feature that allows the drivers to store music, listen, find directions, and everything else depending on their personal preferences.

The Jeep Compass' minor change comes with two available engines to choose from; an entry-level 2.0L DOHC 16V DVVT L4 engine and a top-of-the-line 2.4L DOHC DVVT L4 engine. The 2.0L variant comes with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a Constant Velocity Transmission (CVT2) while the 2.4L variant comes with a standard CVT transmission with optional AutoStick shifter for a choice of Auto Mode and Manual Mode.

For the basics, the 2.0L engine on the Jeep Compass produces about 158hp@6400rpm of power output. With FF drivetrain and 5-speed MT, the fuel economy of this variant can go for about 23mpg city/29mpg hwy. The 2.4L engine ,on the other hand, produces about 172hp@6000rpm of power output and with the CVT2 and FF drivetrain, this engine can go for about 21mpg city/27mpg hwy worth of fuel economy. This is obvious that the most fuel efficient Compass of all is the Compass 2.0L 5MT FF variant.

The capability of the Compass MC has been revised thanks to the improved suspension, smooth riding, available AWD system, Anti-lock braking system suitable for on-road and off-road conditions, Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist, and can tow everything up to 2000lbs. Needless to say that this new Compass is the kind of Jeep you can trust.

My thoughts about the Compass:
The latest Compass minor change for 2011 is just one of the reasons why Chrysler's Jeep brand is back and even aggressive than ever thanks to Fiat ownership. Considering this the baby Grand Cherokee because of the Grand Cherokee-like front view, the new Jeep Compass is one heck of a versatile crossover designed and developed for everyone who want a reliable Made in USA crossover. This latest facelift can be competitive to the likes of the Hyundai Tucson iX, Kia Sportage R, Ssangyong Korando C, Peugeot 3008, Mitsubishi RVR/ASX/Outlander Sport, BMW X1, Subaru Impreza XV, Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, or even the Ford Edge as well. Let's see if the Compass' minor change can truly stack up against the world if this one has the chance.



Photo: Chrysler Group, LLC