Portland, Oregon Originally, Jeep was going to create one new entry-level model, but when the final two contenders were sent to consumer clinics, the M&M-munching, highly focused groups were split. Men and confirmed Jeep people went for the Patriot, while women and those who had never before owned a Jeep voted for the Compass. So the Jeep executives thought: Why alienate anyone? We'll make both.
As a guy (but not a Jeep owner), it's hard for me to see what the ladies were thinking. The battery-powered, pink Barbie Jeep these target-market women drove as toddlers has more of the brand's iconic style than does this baby-doll Infiniti QX56 with the Hello Kitty face.
Looks aside, the Compass drives a lot like the Dodge Caliber on which it's based. The 2.4-liter four uses variable valve timing to make a commendable 172 hp, but acceleration is only so-so, and the engine drones. The optional CVT accentuates the noise, so choose the light-shifting five-speed manual instead. Front-wheel drive is standard; four-wheel drive (with an electronically locking center coupling) is available. The ride is somewhat stiff, but with a carlike ride height and the resultant low center of gravity, the Compass's handling is nimbler than the small-SUV norm.... Read full article