2007 Jeep Compass First Drive

Safety


		» Introduction » Model Mix » Nuts and Bolts » Design » Safety » Driving Impressions » FAQs » Specifications


		» Get Pricing » Get Email Updates » Get Consumer Ratings » Read More Reviews » Send a Letter » More Auto News

Related Searches Related Topics: » Jeep » Review News And Articles: » All Articles

TO THE POINT What’s New? The new 2007 Jeep Compass is a small SUV built on the same platform as the 2007 Dodge Caliber, meaning it’s made for driving on the road rather than off of it.
Selling Points: Refined ride, affordable price, good head/leg room, several unique interior features, long list of standard safety equipment
Deal Breakers: Limited off-road capability, rear seat only suitable for two adults, slightly odd styling
Our Advice: If you’re looking for a civilized compact SUV for suburban adventures, the 2007 Jeep Compass is definitely worth considering. If you need true off-road capability, hold out for the forthcoming Jeep Patriot.

MEET THE COMPETITION Chevrolet HHR
Toyota RAV4

RELATED LINKS 2007 Jeep Compass Car Brief
2007 Jeep Compass Photo Gallery

THIS WEEK Auto Shows
CarTV Videos
Drives
Fuel Economy
Future Cars
Top Ten

Safety Given the 2007 Jeep Compass’ low starting price, it comes with an impressive list of standard safety equipment.

On the plus side, Jeep product planners have seen to it that passengers riding in the 2007 Compass are well protected by a full complement of advanced safety features. Multi-stage front airbags and side-curtain airbags designed to reduce the likelihood of head injuries for outboard passengers in both rows are standard. Side-impact airbags, designed to protect the torsos of front seat occupants, are available as an option.

Other standard safety features include antilock brakes with brake assist, a feature that helps bring maximum braking force to bear in panic stops. To help nip an impending skid or rollover in the bud, both Compass models are also equipped with an electronic stability control system with an anti-rollover feature. A tire pressure-monitoring system is available as an option.

If a collision is unavoidable, DaimlerChrysler’s Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS) should help make the best out of a bad situation. After an airbag deployment, the system automatically unlocks all doors, turns on the interior lights, and shuts off the engine’s fuel supply to make it easier for rescue personnel to render aid after a crash.