Once again for 2011, there are two trims available: the base Sport and the Limited. All-wheel drive versions come standard with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that offers 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. All Compasses come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission. An automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with manual shift override control is optional. Front wheel drive is standard on both trims while 4-wheel drive is optional. A 2.0L 4-cylinder engine making 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque is available only on the Sport with front-wheel drive.
The Compass offers a ground clearance of 8.5 inches, along with a 21-degree approach angle and 32-degree departure angle, both good for negotiating steep inclines. The rear seats split 60/40 and fold forward to expand cargo space. The front passenger seat folds forward to create a table-like surface or expanded cargo space for long items. Also, the center armrest slides forward three inches for shorter drivers, and it includes a cell phone flip pocket. 2011 features a new 3-spoke steering wheel, a redesigned center stack, new door panels and backlit door controls.
Freedom Drive I returns for 2011, with its active all-wheel drive that can be locked into 4-wheel drive at the push of a button. The Freedom Drive II is newly optional for 2011, which was previously only offered on the Patriot. The system features low-range gears, tow hooks, skid plates and a one-inch suspension lift for more serious off-roading.
Active front head restraints are standard across the lineup, as are side curtain front and rear air bags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control with roll mitigation, traction control and hill start assist. Supplemental front seat-mounted side air bags and rear passenger air bags are optional.
Standard equipment on all trims includes 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, air conditioning and auxiliary audio jacks. Accessories such as a power driver-seat height adjustment, reclining rear seats and stain-repellent upholstery are available. All of these features are standard on the Limited, which adds 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, satellite radio and a 6-CD changer as standard.
There are a number of other packages available for both trims. Items that are available as options include heated seats, cargo cover, Bluetooth, remote start, flip-down tailgate speakers, subwoofer, sunroof, navigation system, digital music storage and a USB audio jack.
An Affordable Crossover SUV
Fuel Efficiency Comparable To Hybrids
Spacious Interior For Passengers Or Cargo
Top Government Ratings In Crash Tests
The 2011 Jeep Compass gets a styling update for 2011, with sharper front end lines looking much like those on the Grand Cherokee. All sheetmetal from the windshield forward has been updated, with new front and rear fascias as well. Jeep also fitted more sound insulation as well as suspension improvements, helping to create more of a solid and quiet feel on the road, and greater off-road capabilities have also been added to go along with the more rugged look. 2011 also sees a long list of added standard features as well as an interior redesign.
The car-like 2011 Jeep Compass is the only crossover vehicle in the Jeep family, and shares a platform with the boxy Jeep Patriot. For 2011, the Compass combines the utility of a compact SUV and the maneuverability and crisp handling of a small hatchback, with some added rugged Jeep character.
Its competitors include the Hyundai Tucson and the Suzuki Grand Vitara, but the Jeep brings with it some off-road prowess that others in this segment don't feature. Price is perhaps the Compass' strongest selling point, with MSRP starting at $19,995.
Inside, there is plenty of room for four--five passengers in a pinch. The roof is tall, giving the interior an even-more spacious feel. Unique to the Compass are optional flip-down tailgate speakers, which many reviewers see as a big plus for the vehicle.
