NEW FOR 2016:
- Limited trim level discontinued; High Altitude package is now a trim level.
- North trim gains standard Bluetooth and satellite radio.
- New colour: Mojave Sand.
Jeep’s Compass enters its ninth and likely final year of production with some changes to equipment level, but not much else.
Vehicles with the North trim now receive Bluetooth and satellite radio as standard equipment. The range-topping Limited model has been dropped, meaning some of the Compass’ premium features like automatic climate control, projector beam headlamps, and rear disc brakes are on offer. Replacing it is the High Altitude, which was formerly an option package for the North trim level.
The Compass was a novel idea when it was launched for model year 2007, and over the years it has been upgraded with a Grand Cherokee-inspired nose, a proper six-speed automatic transmission, and a much-improved cabin. These days the Dodge Caliber-based Jeep is feeling rather dated against better riding, more refined, and more spacious rivals like the Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson. Few vehicles can touch it off-road though, especially when equipped with the Freedom Drive II Off-Road package.
The Compass is available in Sport, North, and High Altitude trim levels; all can be had with 4x2 (front-wheel drive) or 4x4 (four-wheel drive).
The Compass Sport comes standard with a 2.0-litre 158-hp four-cylinder paired to a five-speed manual and 4x2 front-wheel drive. A 2.4-litre 172-hp four-cylinder is offered as an option; it’s a mandatory pairing with the optional six-speed automatic.
North and High Altitude trims come standard with 4x2 and the 2.4-litre engine as well as a six-speed automatic. 4x4 is an option.
All trims can be had with the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Group which swaps the six-speed automatic for a CVT with low-range capability, plus skid plates, a 25-mm raised ride height, tow hooks, full-size spare, knobby all-terrain tires, and a manual seat height adjuster.
Features on the Sport include 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch with 2.4), manual mirrors, fog lamps, variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear washer/wiper, assist handles, floor console with illuminated cupholders, floor mats, map lights, removable flashlight, cloth seats, cruise control, 60/40 split-folding second-row seat, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, tilt steering column, side roof rails, removable cargo load floor, and tire pressure warning lamp. Air conditioning can be added as an option.
The North Edition adds chrome grille texture, bright interior accents, sport mesh cloth seats, body colour power heated mirrors, air conditioning, privacy glass, power windows, power locks with remote keyless entry, illuminated entry, 60/40 split folding rear seat with recline, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, front passenger fold-flat seat, 115-volt power outlet, body colour door handles, Bluetooth, and satellite radio.
The High Altitude builds on the North and adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, power sunroof, power six-way driver’s seat with lumbar support, bright roof rails, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
