Introduced as a concept at auto shows last year with its sibling, Jeep Patriot, the Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that, according to the automaker, offers the highest fuel efficiency in the SUV segment — 25 mpg city / 29 mpg highway. Compass is Jeep’s first front-wheel-drive product produced with a fully independent suspension.

The Compass Drivetrain
The Compass is available in Sport and Limited trim levels in either two-wheel drive or Jeep’s Freedom Drive 4x4 system with 17-inch tires. A five-speed manual CVT2 transmission provides a 6-8-percent fuel economy improvement. Another option is the six-speed AutoStick feature, which allows drivers manual control of the vehicle. The Compass’ 2.4L four-cylinder World Engine with 172 horsepower and dual variable valve timing offers nearly the performance and off-road capability as its larger siblings, the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, with a V-6 engine. The Compass can also tow up to 2,000 lbs. when properly equipped.

Standard Safety Features
A structural safety cage made of high-strength steel provides occupant protection in an accident. Other standard safety equipment includes: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which detects wheel slip and transfers torque to the rear; Brake Traction Control, which shortens the vehicle’s stopping distance on rough roads; anti-lock brakes; side-curtain airbags; and Electronic Roll Mitigation, which uses sensors to determine whether the vehicle is at risk of rolling over and automatically applies the brakes accordingly.

Cargo & Passenger Versatility
Inside, the five-door Compass provides versatility of up to 61.8 cubic feet (with all seats folded) of storage capacity and seating for up to five passengers. For extra room, the Compass features standard 60/40 fold-flat rear seats and a front passenger seat that folds forward to create a table surface. A full-size spare tire is stored in a compartment underneath the vehicle’s rear.

An elevated seating position allows the driver more control over the vehicle. The Sport comes with standard cloth seats with YES Essentials stain- and odor-resistant seat fabric available as an option. Leather-trimmed bucket seats are standard in the Limited. A self-recharging removable flashlight is mounted in the headliner above the cargo area.

Exterior Features
Outside, the Compass features round headlights, a seven-slot grille, rear spoiler for reduced wind noise, trapezoidal wheel flares, and steep windshield for improved aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

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