2007 Jeep Compass

As the best known name in off-road vehicles, Jeep has always been the “go anywhere” brand. But in a world where off-roading increasing means navigating pot holes, Jeep has started to rethink their singular trail-rated approach. Enter the 2007 Jeep Compass. This compact, crossover utility aimed at young, urban and lifestyle savvy consumers. But can the new compass show Jeep’s softer side without losing their hard body image?

A strong brand is one that has high wide range of offerings and high customer loyalty. To ensure both, Jeep is smartly widening its spectra of high traction vehicles further by introducing a more city-centric 2007 Compass crossover utility.  This compact car-based SUV attempts to endorse an active and realistic lifestyle without threatening Jeep’s reputation for off-road prowess. 

Genetics prove to be inescapable as the new Compass wears classic Jeep features such as round headlamps, a seven-slot grille, and roof rails.  But make no mistake, its sleek and modern silhouette is new, and mimics the Dodge Caliber with which it shares size and most components.

Sitting atop standard 17 inch wheels or optional 18’s the front or single speed four-wheel drive Compass is poised for adventure in-town, and to some extent, out in the semi-wild. It has a very reasonable 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

Under the hood, you’ll find the Caliber’s top engine, a 2.4 liter twin-cam 16 valve four with Variable Valve Timing, standard on the Compass.  Output is measured at 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque.

On the track, our 5-speed single speed four-wheel drive tester managed 0 to 60 in a leisurely 9.4 seconds, similar to the Caliber. The quarter mile was an adequate 17 seconds flat at 84 miles-per-hour.  While Compass is not underpowered, it certainly won’t overwhelm you. 

As expected, Jeep’s first-ever front-wheel drive vehicle is causing some uproar among diehards. Although traction control and stability control are standard. Still Jeep expects many Compass buyers to opt for the new all-weather single speed four-wheel drive system known as Freedom Drive 1. Fully automatic Freedom Drive 1 delivers more traditional Jeep functionality and includes a locking center coupling to help handle deeper snow. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a smooth Continuously Variable Transaxle, and AutoStick manual control, optional.

The Compass deliberately offers a more car-like ride than any other Jeep.  But keep in mind; though it may not be “trail-rated,” it’s still a pretty capable utility. And potholes are dispatched with minimal body flex.

The all-independent suspension features MacPherson struts in the front and multi-links in the rear.  The overall handling is responsive with a fair amount of Jeep-like body roll.  Nicely weighted rack and pinion steering grants quick and agile turns.

To stop itself, the Compass has standard Anti-lock brakes with on- and off-road calibrations. Stops from 60 were nearly fade-free. But with a 138 foot average, on the long side.

Climb on in and you’ll find yourself in a stylish and ultra-roomy environment. The functional dash is defined by clean lines and a well configured geometry.  Gauges and controls are simple and to the point. Even the base Compass Sport comes fairly well equipped with a tilt wheel, outside temperature gauge, AM/FM/CD stereo, and Ultrafloor - a removable and washable vinyl floor that’s perfect for clean-up after a day of play. Add upgrade packages or Limited Trim for a/c, premium sound systems with swing-down party speakers and even a 115-volt power outlet. Standard occupant safety is delivered by way of four airbags: two front and two side curtain. 

A spacious rear seat provides room for three and an available recline feature.  A 60/40 split fold adds the utility level of versatility. Indeed, the true hero of this interior comes in the form of cargo room.  A respectable 22.7 cubic feet of storage more than doubles to 53.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. Drop the available flat-fold front-passenger seat and the space swells to 60.7 cubic feet. 

The pragmatic Compass serves up government fuel economy of 25 city and 29 highway. Our manual test car’s mileage loop came in at 26 miles-per-gallon.

But pricing may turn out to be the biggest draw for the Compass, with the front drive Sport starting at a super-reasonable $15,985. The Limited begins at $20,140. In both cases single speed four-wheel drive adds $1,600 more.

We think the Jeep Compass will succeed in venturing into non-traditional terrain without harming the brand’s solid image. After all, it is more and more in the city where younger professionals work and play.  So, with an already loyal Jeep fan base in place, the Compass points in the right direction.