2009 Jeep Compass

Hardened Jeep fans had few kind words about the Compass when it debuted as a 2007 model. Potential owners who liked the idea of a Jeep, but had no need for ambitious off-road capabilities, adopted a more favorable view. Meant to attract this new breed of Jeep buyer, Compass was the first of three new models launched for 2007, including the more traditional-looking Patriot. Compass buyers with active lifestyles likely knew about Jeeps, but never had one before—or even wanted one. "They all wanted the confidence that comes with an SUV," said Michael Berube, who headed Jeep marketing during the Compass's initial media presentation.

Vehicle Dynamics

Like the Dodge Caliber hatchback, also launched as a 2007 model, the Compass uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as an alternative to the standard five-speed manual gearbox. In fact, the Compass and the Dodge Caliber share the same basic structure. Built on a passenger-car chassis, the Compass lacks the "Trail Rated" status granted to other Jeeps, and its off-road capabilities are on the mild side. Unlike Dodge's Caliber, though, Compass has a 4WD-Lock button, for use on slightly rougher terrain.


Nearly all models hold a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, developing 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. A Compass may have either front-drive or all-wheel drive. Jeep offers a smaller (2.0-liter) engine as a credit option, only for the lower-cost Sport model with front-drive. An AutoStick feature for the CVT permits manual selection of simulated "gears." Start-offs with the CVT are rather leisurely. Highway passing response isn't bad: nothing to induce driving excitement, but the Compass gains speed with pleasing steadiness.


Engine noise is an issue, but it's not troubling as you approach the desired velocity. Manual mode with the AutoStick feature works almost like the real thing, providing quick "upshifts" from the virtual "gears," but downshifts may be trickier at times. Downhill, it helps keep speed down, though not like a serious off-road vehicle or one with manual shift. The five-speed manual gearbox is on the vague side, thus not inviting to use. The Compass clutch doesn't engage so adroitly either. In addition, the engine sounds noisy in each lower gear, without delivering much more energy than the CVT manages.

Interior and Updates

For 2009, each Compass got a redesigned interior, including a reworked instrument panel and a center console with a split lid. Chrome accents the new round climate-control vents. Padded armrests are new, along with LED-illuminated cupholders. More insulation was installed to reduce noise, and suspension tuning was revised. Sport models include air conditioning, a tilt steering column, split-folding rear seat, stereo with MP3 capability, fabric upholstery, foglamps, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Limited editions add leather-trimmed, heated bucket seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. Also on the Limited are 18-inch aluminum wheels and "uconnect tunes," which includes a 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing music files.


Front seats have short bottoms and a somewhat hard seatback, and don't feel abundantly cushioned. Despite compact external dimensions, occupants enjoy plenty of front headroom and elbow space. Backseat space is abundant for two, with tall headroom but limited leg space. The center rear position is tolerable, but that rider must straddle cupholders at the rear of a long console. Seatbacks are stiff, too. Unlike the front seat, the back feels generally cramped and overly cozy. Gauges are modest in size on a basic instrument panel, but they're easy enough to read. The average-size glovebox is easy to reach, with an open compartment above.