Jeep resets the compass on the new route in 2011

Since its launch, the compact crossover Jeep Compass has been the lost sheep of the Chrysler brand. The product of the Dodge caliber and the same platform on which the Jeep Patriot rides, the compass's car-based physique makes it difficult for the vehicle to prove its value. 9-slot grille. Although Compass can be equipped with an all-wheel drive system, this crossover has not received the "Trail Rated" certification for the Jeep from 2007 to 2010. Entering the market as a quasi-jeeps, the first major update of the Compass crossover in 2011 is expected to win hardcore Jeep fans.

Promoted by Chrysler Group as “A Grand New Jeep Compass,” it’s more than evident with the exterior styling in which direction the division wants to take their junior Jeep. Openly admitting that the Jeep Grand Cherokee redesign was the basis for buffing up the 2011 Compass (a move that seems more than sensible following the Jeep flagship’s avalanche success, replacing the rounded headlamps starts to identify the compact crossover’s changes.

Losing the headlamp design, which lit the path for many Jeep vehicles, the 2011 Compass’ new wrapping quad reflector forward lighting casts a more formal image. Another exterior change exhibited on the 2011 Jeep Compass is the scaling back of the silver-colored molding pieces. Having resembled a treatment similar to the body cladding performed on early 2000’s Pontiacs, Jeep’s desire to makeover the Compass in the image of the Grand Cherokee saw the matted pieces replaced with body-color bumpers. The 2011 Jeep Compass continues to add exterior trim flash but only with shinier, more polished pieces existing sparingly on the lower body panels and the rear bumper lip. A body colour rear spoiler and optional LED taillights finalizes the cosmetic refreshment to the Jeep Compass’ body.

Riding on a retuned suspension for better handling, the 2011 Jeep Compass also awards occupants with better comfort traveling inside the interior, which has also been reworked. Soft-touch materials are said to be included, along with a new steering wheel and center armrest. Sirius satellite radio and Travel Link, a 9-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system, and Uconnect will be features available inside the 2011 Compass, not including a wide array

Continuing to be part of the Compass platoon for 2011, engine choices of a 2-liter four-cylinder producing 158 horsepower and the 172 horsepower, 2.4 liter V-6 World Engine are offered. With the five-speed manual and the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) also returning, fuel economy will stay the same as the 2010 Compass ratings.

Allowing itself to be fitted for whatever adventure a buyer has in mind, the 2011 Jeep Compass continues to be offered with a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive option. All-wheel drive system Freedom Drive I returns on the Jeep Compass for 2011 but the biggest news comes with the addition of another drivetrain choice which will finally break off the shackles off the Compass. Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes special CVT transmission fitted with a low-range setting, all-terrain tires inside 17-inch aluminum wheels, skid plates and an increase ground clearance of a full inch. A four-wheel-drive system that gives the 2011 Jeep Compass a chance to challenge moderate off-road situations, Freedom Drive II provides Jeep Compass with the credibility to earn a Trail-Rated status for all of the vehicles within the division’s lineup.

Taking on urban trails December 2010, the re-calibrated Compass comes in a base, Latitude, and Limited model range with pricing starting at $19,295 (not including destination).

That is a $3,930 increase. But is the premium worth it over 2010? The answer is yes in every area. For one, standard equipment has been added, with new additions like air conditioning, keyless entry, heated power side mirrors, power windows and locks, tinted glass, cruise control, and even fog lamps. Those were features not standard on the $15,365.

On top of that is the dramatic improvements to the exterior and interior. Inside the Compass gets a tasteful, more upscale look with upgraded materials.

Few Compass sales were likely at the base price level, and the Compass is undoubtedly a far more attractive product for 2011. We’ll see if a bit of the Grand Cherokee’s sales success wears off on the Compass when it goes on sale.

Source of information and photos: Jeep, Chrysler Group