The 2013 Compass is offered in three different levels--Sport, Latitude, and Limited. Within all three of these, between base front-wheel-drive form, the available Freedom Drive I full-time active 4-wheel-drive system, and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package and its upgrades, the Compass spans a wide range of ability from what's essentially a city-friendly tall small car up to a surprisingly serious and able off-roader.
Sport and Latitude models of the Compass include a 158-horsepower, 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, while the 2.4L four in Limited models (and optional on the others) makes 172 hp and 165 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are offered with a manual transmission or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) at the base Sport level but only with the CVT at Latitude and Limited levels. Versions with the manual gearbox perform somewhat more efficiently, with EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg city, 30 highway for the smaller engine and 23/28 mpg for the larger one. Jeep says that the CVT provides better fuel economy than a typical four-speed automatic.
The most noteworthy option in the Compass--and what sets it apart from other small crossovers--is the availability of the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package. It includes a special version of the CVT with a true low range that engages in off-road mode, plus many of the features you'd find in traditional SUVs, like skid plates and tow hooks, as well as fog lamps, a raised suspension, all-terrain tires and a full-size spare. Other models with 4-wheel drive get the Freedom Drive I system, which is an active, road-oriented system that will help send engine power to the wheels where it can best be used. Both 4x4 systems include a four-wheel-drive lock mode to help power through deep snow, mud or sand.
The Compass otherwise has a layout that bears some commonality with small cars and its compact size combined with relatively responsive handling, great maneuverability and ease of parking altogether make this a good city vehicle. Rear seatbacks are split 60/40, and they flip forward to a flat floor. Manual-transmission models include Hill-Start Assist, while active front head restraints, anti-lock brakes, and side-curtain airbags covering front and rear occupants are included in all models.
Base Sport versions of the Compass come about as well-equipped as small-car models in this price range, with power windows and locks, power heated mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control, and alloy wheels. Illuminated cupholders, projector for lamps and a rechargeable flashlight system for the cargo area are among the other standout features included here. Latitude models add remote start, heated front seats, a height-adjustable driver's seat, recline adjustment for the backseat, steering-wheel audio controls and a 115-volt power inverter, while at the Limited level you get leather seats, 4-wheel disc brakes, a 6-way-adjustable driver's seat, automatic climate control, an information center and an upgraded sound system with 6-disc changer. Limited models can be distinguished on the outside by their bright exhaust tip and additional rear-fascia brightwork. A 9-speaker system with liftgate speakers, navigation with SiriusXM Travel Link, and a UConnect Bluetooth hands-free calling interface are highlights from the options list.
Versatile Layout For People And Gear
Maneuverability And Parking Ease
Some Innovative Features
Serious Off-road Ability In An Affordable, Compact Package
For 2013, Jeep Compass models with the 2.0L engine and manual transmission get slightly higher EPA highway ratings--now 30 mpg. Otherwise this model line is carried over from 2012 unchanged, although Winter Chill Pearl Coat and Black Forest Green Pearl Coast have been added to the palette of exterior colors.
Along with the closely related Jeep Patriot, the Jeep Compass is one of the lowest-priced off-road capable utility vehicles on the market when you get it with the optional Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package, yet it packs that in a vehicle that rides and handles for the most part like a car. Ease of parking and maneuverability are strengths for this model, and it's reasonably fuel-efficient. And it can tow up to 2,000 pounds--enough for a couple of jet-skis.
Otherwise, the Compass continues to offer some innovative features that aren't found everywhere else, like the optional sound system with liftgate speakers--good for a tailgate party--or the rechargeable flashlight built into the rear cargo area.
