2011 Jeep Compass Features a Stunning New Sophisticated Design

The Chrysler Group has officially revealed the refreshed for the 2011 model year Jeep Compass crossover, which will go on sale in the U.S. within the next few weeks. Offering unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy and off-

road capability in the compact-SUV segment, the new 2011 Jeep Compass features a stunning new sophisticated design, with cues coming directly from the brand's premium icon, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

In fact, the SUV's restyled front end appears to have been directly lifted off the larger Jeep model. With a new hood, new front fenders, 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.

At the back, the 2011 Compass gains LED tail lamps, new body-color rear spoiler and some trim updates. The newly designed standard 17-inch aluminum wheels, and 18-inch aluminum or chrome-clad wheels that are available on Limited models, complete the exterior makeover.

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 the compact-SUV segment.

For 2011, the Jeep Compass will be offered with a choice of two powerplants. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol provides 158 horsepower and 141 lb.-ft. (191 Nm) of torque, and can be hooked up to either a continuously variable transmission (CVT2) or a five-speed manual gearbox, in which case it returns 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Those looking for more power can opt for the 2.4-liter unit, which produces 172-horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque. Again, buyers can choose between the CVT and the 5-speed stick shift. Oddly enough, Jeep claims the larger displacement unit returns the same exact mileage as the 2.0-liter model.

The new Compass is available in three drivetrain configurations, including the standard front-wheel-drive model, the Freedom Drive I with full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode, and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package that comes with a four-wheel-drive system and a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with low range gearing (CVT2L).

The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in the following exterior colors: 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 Gray (limited availability) and Mineral Gray Pearl Coat (late availability).

The new Compass is built at the Chrysler Group's Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois, with the first examples set to arrive in Jeep showrooms in December 2010.