Our biggest problem is that, beyond the seven-slot grille and the squared-off wheel openings, there's little of the Compass that reminds you you're in a Jeep. The bulging rear shoulder line (which caused placing the rear door handles up in the C pillar) strengthens the Compass's looks, but this is a cute 'ute, however carefully Jeep avoids the term. We know it's possible to build a credible Jeep with good carlike ride and handling--consider the Grand Cherokee when it was new. Buyers looking for a little SUV attitude with good road manners and exceptional fuel economy will find most everything they need in the Compass, but this isn't a Jeep. And why isn't there a compass in this Compass?
| 2007 Jeep Compass |
| Price range | $15,985-$21,740 |
| Layout | Front engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door car |
| Engine | 2.4L/172-hp/165 lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4 |
| Transmissions | 5-speed manual, CVT |
| Length x width x height, in | 173.4 x 69.3 x 65.2 |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 9.2 (5M) |
| EPA fuel econ, city/hwy | 23-25/26-29 mpg |
| On sale | Currently |