The Car Connection (TCC) test-drove the new Jeep Compass, the marque’s twin to the Dodge Caliber and first major foray into the “soft ‘ute market.TCC found the Compass quite easy to drive, having very little sway when cornering or body roll. Ride was a bit choppy and noisy on rough surfaces compared to competitors, though nothing compared to its truck-based siblings. Mileage is comparable to other small SUVs; the Compass averaged 24 mpg with CVT.
Interior material for the near $16,000 SUV was as expected with lots of hard plastic to show signs of cost cutting. And while many safety features, such as anti-lock brakes and side-curtain airbags, are standard, expected features as power windows are optional. (Interesting, a compass is optional in the Compass.)
Our take? Though Jeep diehards will protest the Compass is not a true Jeep, buyers looking for a car-like drive with that quintessential “Jeep” appearance will find direction with the Compass.
Jeep’s New Direction via Business Week
I drove the Compass. Controversy aside, it’s just a very plain, uninspired vehicle, in my opinion. There’s nothing necessarily wrong with it, but nothing special, either, other than the iPod input in the radio and a 12v outlet. If Jeep really wanted to take the segment by storm, they should have benchmarked the RAV4 or CR-V. It just doesn’t feel like it’s in the same class.
One wonders if the dilution of a brand known for it’s trail-ready vehicles is the right direction for GM to take. It would seem as if another marque in the stable would be a better candidate for a cross-over ute.