TO THE POINTWhat’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.
SpecificationsThe 2007 Jeep Compass’ primary competitors are the Chevrolet HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Pontiac Vibe, Subaru Forester, and Toyota Matrix.
Test Vehicle: Jeep Compass Limited AWD Price of Test Vehicle: $23,500 (including the $560 destination charge) Engine Size and Type: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder Engine Horsepower: 172 at 6,000 rpm Engine Torque: 165 at 4,400 rpm Transmission: Continuously variable automatic (CVT) with manual-shift feature Curb Weight, lbs. : 3,413 EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 23/26 mpg Length: 173.4 inches Width: 69.3 inches Wheelbase: 103.7 inches Height: 65.2 inches Legroom (front/rear): 40.6/39.4 inches Headroom (front/rear): 40.7/39.9 inches Max. Seating Capacity: Five Max. Cargo Volume: 53.6 cu.-ft. Min. Ground Clearance: 8.1 inches Competitors: Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, Mazda Tribute, Mercury Mariner, Mitsubishi Outlander, Pontiac Torrent, Pontiac Vibe, Saturn Vue, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Matrix, Toyota RAV4
Photos courtesy of DaimlerChrysler
About Alan Rider Alan Rider is a contributing editor for Autobytel.com and two of the country¹s largest AAA magazine publishing groups, where his automotive reviews and feature stories are read by more than 7 million members. He is also a contributing editor to the AAA Buyer¹s Guide to New Cars & Trucks and an award judge for the organization¹s annual Top Car awards. He lives with his wife and son in Northern California.