Most people think of Jeeps as tough off-road vehicles that love to get muddy, but when the Compass debuted for 2007, it wasn't like other Jeeps. It didn't look rugged and it didn't even like dirt. Instead, it was a car-based design built for the majority of small-SUV buyers who wanted a fuel-efficient runabout that was easy to drive around the city. Four-wheel drive was available, of course, but it was a single-speed system – enough to get you through a muddy track and that's about it.
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| Jeep Compass |
As you can imagine, purists didn't much care for the Compass, which they regarded as the exact opposite to all things Jeep. However, for the latest model has revised styling and new found capabilities which edge the Compass closer to "real Jeep" status. So what new this time round? Well the all-new Jeep Compass comes with a new six-speed PowerTech automatic transmission, refreshed exterior and interior design and unsurpassed capability in the compact-SUV segment. The all-new Jeep Compass is offered in Sport, Latitude and Limited trim levels.
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| Profile view |
Design
The exterior of the all-new Jeep Compass is refined with specific updates that move the uplifts its overall design. With a new hood, new front fenders, new fascia and new headlamps as well as a new grille – which has been detailed with a small dose of chrome surrounding the traditional seven slots found on all Jeep vehicles. The new face of the 2014 Jeep Compass features a more serious, yet sophisticated appearance. Forward lighting performance is improved with the use of quad reflector headlamps. Adding an element of muscle, the hood is enhanced with a subtle power bulge. The result is a vehicle that projects an attitude that is much more serious and conveys the all-new Jeep Compass' capability in all weather and driving conditions. This trend continues with enhancements to the rear of the 2014 Jeep Compass. A new rear fascia, new body-colour rear spoiler and upscale touches, such as the new LED tail lamps, are visible at the back. A new plated chrome insert with recessed "Jeep" badge on the tailgate trim is visible for models equipped with a rear backup camera.
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| A look at the power unit |
Power
The all-new Jeep Compass features a standard 2.0-liter power unit for the Sport and Latitude models. The power unit has an output of 158 hp (117 kW) and 191 Nm of torque. Coupled with the engine is a standard five-speed manual transmission or a new 6F24 six-speed automatic transmission. The engine needs 7.8-litres of fuel to cover 100km. Another power plant on offer is a 2.4-liter unit that churns out 172 hp (129 kW) and 224 Nm. This particular engine is available on all models and standard on the all-new Jeep Compass Limited. The Jeep Compass' 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transaxle in front-wheel drive configuration delivers needs 8.4-litres of fuel to cover 100km.
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| Interior look |
Interior
The all-new Jeep Compass interior features luxury trims and adornments that customers will appreciate. A selection of leather trims are available each with a particular feel, stitch and colour. In addition, the armrests and centre console lid are now wrapped in vinyl. The instrument cluster features easy to read graphics with a distinct background colours. A new satin chrome finish adorns the centre panel, shifter knob and pulls cups. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power/heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry, fog lamps, cruise control, illuminated cup holders, a removable/rechargeable light, outside temperature display, electronic stability control, front driver and passenger active head restraints, electronic roll mitigation, 60/40 fold-flat rear seat and sunscreen glass.
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| Rear design |
Verdict
Like the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee before it, the all-new Jeep Compass takes a huge step forward in design, quality and refinement. The economical engine, affordable price and roomy interior make it a worthy competitor to some of its rivals. Although the all-new Jeep Compass is a soft of roader, we would highly recommend you having it with a 4x4 drive train.