2015 Jeep Compass

The second smallest of Jeep’s offerings, the Compass is one of the more affordable ways to get into the brand’s lifestyle. The Compass might not have the same off-roading prowess as Jeep’s other vehicles, but it brings a brawny look and the ability to get dirty to the city. If you want to experience a Jeep and enjoy light off-roading, the Compass doesn’t have any real competitors.

The 2015 Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that seats five. There are three trims: Sport, Latitude and Limited. There are two four-cylinder engines to choose from, as well as two automatic transmissions and a manual transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, the Compass wouldn’t be a Jeep if it didn’t offer all-wheel drive.

The Compass carries over mostly unchanged for 2015.

Exterior

Jeeps are iconic for being boxes with wheels, but the automaker has incorporated some of the softer lines from the Grand Cherokee into the Compass. The compact SUV wears the brand’s seven-slotted grille. The hood has prominent bulges that hint at the SUV’s rugged heritage. The squared-off fenders not only provide the Compass with its wide stance, but give the tires enough clearance to travel over rough terrain. The high beltline and thick C-pillar give the appearance of a wider rear end. Blocky taillights and clean lines round out the look.

The Compass comes with roof side rails, 16-inch aluminum wheels, deep-tinted sunscreen glass, acoustic glass windshield, fog lights and manually folding mirrors. Tow hooks, bright exhaust tips, 17-inch aluminum wheels and skid plates are available.

Interior

Just like the no-frills approach to the SUV’s sheet metal, the Compass’ cabin is simply detailed. The four large dials that make up the instrument cluster are easy to read and match the other round touches in the inside. The buttons and dials are clearly laid out. Space inside of the Compass is good, even in the rear, while items that drivers continually interact with, such as the grab handles, cubbies and armrests, are well thought out.

The Compass has a good amount of cargo capacity. With all seats in place, the Compass holds 22.7 cubic feet of cargo. Fold the seats down, and that measure expands to 53.6 cubic feet.

Standard features include manual air conditioning, cloth bucket seats, a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat and an exterior temperature gauge. A driver’s seat height adjuster, power windows, power door locks and a T-grip shifter are optional.

Performance

The Compass has two engines and three transmission choices to explore. The base powertrain is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque. A larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder makes 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. Both engines can be paired with a five-speed manual, a six-speed automatic or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is standard for the Compass, but two full-time all-wheel-drive systems are available.

The 2015 Jeep Compass can get 23/30 mpg city/highway. When properly equipped, it has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

Jeep’s little SUV is meant to be comfortable on the road but still be able to get dirty. Both engines provide the Compass with respectable performance, while all of the available transmissions are smooth and result in a tranquil ride. The Compass’ cabin also manages to be quiet at highway speeds and around town. Take the SUV on some rough terrain, and the Compass, with a copious amount of ground clearance, really shines.

Technology

Standard tech features include a theft-deterrent system, an AM/FM/CD radio system, an auxiliary input jack and a four-speaker audio system. Options include remote keyless entry, a six-disc CD changer, satellite radio, Bluetooth, voice command and Wi-Fi hot spot.