2006 Jeep Compass 2.4L 16V 4×4 CVT AWD (170 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Jeep tried to broaden its portfolio and introduced the 2007 Compass at the 2006 North American Motor Show for the 2007 model year, a vehicle that targeted first-time buyers.

While the crossover and SUV segment was rising, Jeep used its prestigious heritage to attract new customers with a road-oriented vehicle that still shared some of the brand’s DNA in its look and feel. Even though it built the Compass on the same platform as the Mitsubishi Lancer, there were significant differences that made it appealing to customers. Its higher ground clearance and fresh look were meant to divert buyers from hatchbacks to Jeep’s smallest crossover. Moreover, it was even available in a 2WD version, which made it ideal for those looking for a compact vehicle good enough to park in tight spots but large enough to carry a family of four in and around town.

At the front, the Compass received the brand’s design signature with round headlights and a seven-slat grille between them. Its front fascia slightly resembled the one placed on the 2001 Jeep Liberty, which perhaps was not the best idea. On the lower bumper, the automaker placed a pair of round fog lamps, depending on the grade and options. At the same time, the angular-shaped front bumper, with taller outer sides, made a clear connection with the enlarged front fenders, which, when looked at from the front, appeared as wide shoulders.

From its profile, the hatchback styling of the vehicle was mixed with the design attributes of a crossover due to the higher ground clearance. The Compass’s enlarged wheel fenders created the image of a muscular vehicle, even though its performance was closer to that of mass-market vehicles. The automaker’s idea was to create an appealing vehicle, targeting young buyers. That’s why it placed grab handles for the front doors, while those in the rear were concealed into the C-pillars. Furthermore, a third row of triangular windows and a raised line for the rearmost posts matched the definition of a youth-oriented car. Finally, at the back, the automaker placed corner-mounted taillights that flanked the wide tailgate.

While the car’s exterior was thoroughly studied, the interior looked like it was made at the last minute. Its hard plastic materials and poor fits and finish affected the Compass’ sales. Fronting the driver was a squared instrument cluster filled with four dials, resembling those from the Wrangler. The silver plastic trims that adorned it didn’t look upscale at all. Furthermore, the squared-looking center stack sported angular-shaped vents, stereo, and a small storage space where customers could fit their mobile phones. At the lower side of the center stack, the automaker installed the gear selector/gear stick, depending on the version. Jeep also provided the Compass with a Uconnect infotainment system featuring a sat-nav and a touchscreen. Customers could also use a USB port to listen to their music from MP3 players and other devices. In the back, a split-folding (40/60) bench seat was wide enough to host three occupants on short trips or two for longer journeys. The trunk could be used to sit on it, and a pair of swing-down speakers from the tailgate, known as party speakers, were fitted with young customers in mind.

Under its skin, the DaimlerChrysler/Mitsubishi GS platform meant that the vehicle featured independent suspension in all corners, providing a comfortable ride for its occupants. Depending on the market, the Compass was powered by a choice of three engines: a 2.0-liter inline-four, a 2.4-liter four-banger, and a 2.0-liter turbodiesel carried over from Volkswagen. Later, a 2.2-liter turbodiesel from Peugeot-Citroen replaced that oil-burning version. All cars were fitted as standard with a five- or six-speed manual gearbox that sent the power to the front or in all corners, depending on the grade. A CVT was available, depending on the engine and market.