2011 Jeep Compass - Detroit Auto show

The North American International Auto Show bore witness to the drastically improved 2011 Jeep Compass from the Chrysler staple. On the design front, the 2011 Jeep Compass comes complete with a modified front fascias, newly styled lighting units, a redesigned front grille and standard 17-inch aluminum wheels. Thanks to dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT), with an estimated mileage of 23/29 mpg city/highway.

A case in point is the 2011 Jeep Compass, a compact sport-utility vehicle now on display at the North American International Automobile Show here--Look a little closer and you will recognize its likeness to the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Most importantly, the engineers have added a second four-wheel-drive system that gives the Compass Jeep's Trail Rated designation.

The 2011 Compass is available in three configurations -- Compass, Latitude and Limited. All can be purchased with front-wheel-drive, standard full-time all-wheel drive or the off-road package.
Either engine is available on Compass and Latitude models. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic shifter.

I've just spent the last few days in a new "2011 Jeep Compass" with the new Freedom Drive II option. The Compass and Patriot are built off the same platform but the Compass was never given the CVT that allows for a lower "first gear" ratio, helpful for navigating difficult weather conditions or light trails. Neither the Compass nor the Patriot has a transfer case with a low-gear ratio and many are sold without all-wheel drive. For the 2011 model year, the Jeep Compass with Freedom Drive II is Trail Rated, as peculiar as that might sound.