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Jeep Compass for 2011

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23rd January, 2011

Offering off-road capability in the compact-SUV segment, the 2011 Jeep Compass features a new design, with cues coming directly from the brand’s premium model, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Coupled with a host of interior refinements, and improved ride and handling characteristics in all conditions – courtesy of upgraded steering and suspension systems – the new Jeep Compass offers a unique blend of premium styling, capability, efficiency and value that is unmatched in North America's compact-SUV segment.

“With the new 2011 Jeep Compass, we’ve applied the premium design cues of our award-winning new Grand Cherokee,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Combined with new interior appointments, and refinements to the suspension and steering systems, Jeep Compass provides consumers the ultimate combination of styling, capability, fuel economy, efficiency, safety and value in the important compact-SUV segment.”

Delivering the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car, the new 2011 Jeep Compass also boasts more than 30 safety and security features, including standard side-curtain air bags, electronic stability programme (ESC), electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), side curtain air bags for all rows and available front-seat-mounted side air bags.

Design

The new 2011 Jeep Compass has a distinct 'family' resemblance to the all-new, premium 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

With a new bonnet, new front guards, new fascia and new headlamps as well as a new grille that has been detailed with a small dose of chrome surrounding the traditional seven slots found on all Jeep vehicles, the new face of the Compass features a more serious, yet sophisticated, appearance. Forward lighting performance is improved with the use of quad reflector headlamps, and the fog lamps are now high output projector lamps. Adding an element of 'muscle', the bonnet has been enhanced with a subtle power bulge. The result is a vehicle that projects an attitude that is much more serious and conveys the Compass’ capability in all weather and driving conditions.

New brightwork throughout the exterior lends an upscale touch without compromising the off-road performance of the Compass. A band of protective cladding has been added for 2011, serving to fend off debris when driving in challenging weather conditions or off-road, and providing a new appearance.

This trend continues with enhancements to the rear of the Compass. A new rear fascia, new body-colour rear spoiler and subtle, upscale touches including new LED taillamps and on the Limited model, bright trim on the step pad and a chrome exhaust tip adorn the new 2011 Jeep Compass. Topping it off, a new set of roof rails were designed with a slimmed down appearance and a small amount of brightwork. The 2011 Compass sports new, standard 17-inch aluminium wheels, and 18-inch aluminium or chrome-clad wheels are available on Limited models.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Compass include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; a new centre armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, available handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard speed control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls.

The new 2011 Jeep Compass offers an array of clever features consumers will appreciate whether commuting to work, driving in challenging weather conditions, exploring new trails or out-of-the-way places. Uconnect media centre with iPod interface, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link, power sunroof, a premium audio system with nine Boston Acoustic speakers, illuminated cup holders, liftgate speakers and fold-flat rear seats are some of the available cool features that make the Compass the perfect compact SUV, enabling consumers to enjoy any adventure.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is packed with standard features that provide value and convenience for drivers and passengers. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power/heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry, aluminium wheels, fog lamps, cruise control and sunscreen glass.

New for 2011 the Jeep Compass offers an All-weather Capability Group option which includes Goodyear 17-inch all-terrain tyres, all-season floor mats, daytime running headlamps, engine block heater and tow hooks.

Segment-leading Capability

The 2011 Jeep Compass offers customers unsurpassed 4x4 off-road capability with Jeep Freedom Drive II. The new Jeep Compass also boasts a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates, added rebound springs, and an increased diameter of the rear sway bar. Despite these numerous capability features, the 2011 Jeep Compass boasts unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy in its segment.

Jeep Compass is available in three drivetrain configurations. In addition to the standard front-wheel-drive system, Jeep Compass also is available with Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package.

Freedom Drive I is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is recommended for daily use, including slick conditions that come with rain and light snow. Freedom Drive I also features a lockable centre coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Compass in four-wheel-drive lock mode to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

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The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that delivers Jeep Trail Rated® capability in Compass form. The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with low range (CVT2L) that engages when the off-road mode is activated, 17-inch all-terrain tyres and aluminium wheels, a one-inch raised ride height, a full-size spare tyre, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and manual seat height adjuster. The available Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is recommended for moderate off-road situations that include steep grades, occasional wheel lift and rock or log climbing.

The 2011 Jeep Compass’ powertrain is designed to deliver world-class performance in all weather conditions, fuel economy and refinement, all at an affordable, value-packed price.

Compass features a standard 2.0-litre 'World Engine' for the Compass and Latitude models that provides 117 kW of power (158 horsepower) and 191 Nm (141 lb.-ft.) of torque coupled with the continuously variable transmission (CVT2).

The proven 2.4-litre 'World Engine' produces 172-horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque and is available on all models and standard on the Limited. This 2.4-litre World Engine has dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, which helps optimise the torque curve at all speeds and produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology typically not available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Jeep Compass’ price class.

Jeep Compass also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle on the entry-level Compass and a CVT that is available on the Compass and standard on the Latitude and Limited models. The Compass’ CVT2 is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for pleasing engine response and precise ratio control. CVT2 contributes to a fuel economy improvement of 6–8 per cent compared with a traditional four-speed automatic.

Jeep Compass Model Lineup

The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations in North America: Compass, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4x4 system or the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package full-time, active 4x4 system with low-range capability.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in the following exterior colours: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Clear Coat Deep Charcoal Grey (limited availability) and Mineral Grey Pearl Coat (late availability).

Built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois (USA), the new 2011 Jeep Compass models has been released in North America.

Australian Availability

Next Car will publish details of the Australian specifications and model availability once confirmation of the Australian release is announced.

About Jeep

Built on nearly 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The 2011 Jeep vehicle line-up includes Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all Jeep models are sold outside North America and all are available in right-hand drive and with petrol and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in approximately 120 countries around the world.


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