Jeep Gives Go-Ahead To Compass SUV

Rough and Ready Jeep Brand Breaks with Tradition and Offers a Car-Like SUV

Yesterday a spokesman for DaimlerChrysler would neither confirm nor deny that Jeeps Compass, a concept last year, has been given the green light for production. But according to a Chrysler Group dealer representative addressing a crowd of U.S. retailers at the National Automobile Dealers Association in San Francisco earlier this year, its a go-ahead.

Expect prices to be slightly less than the 4×4 capable Liberty its based on, speculated to debut in the $15,000 range. The new model has not been designed for serious off-road expeditions but focuses on on-road driving dynamics instead. This poses a major break from Jeeps Rubicon Trail tough brand identity, but alternatively opens opportunities up for an altogether new kind of Jeep, and therefore a new group of potential customers.

Research has shown that a lot of people, predominantly young women, respect the cachet associated with the Jeep name but dont want a rough riding, truck-like SUV. The new Compass, while based on one of the best off-road vehicles in its class, offers that smooth ride and car-like handling needed to attract this clientele.

The Compass concept was powered by the Libertys 3.7-L V6 but production models will feature a variety of engines, most likely starting with a new 2.0-L class of 4-cylinder engines expected to debut about the time the Compass becomes available. The current Liberty sports a 2.4-L 4-cylinder in base trim, so expect something with a similar displacement for the Compass.

Theres no word if the new Jeep will follow the Libertys lead and offer a diesel engine to the North American market, but no doubt diesels will be a feature in Europe where Jeep is also planning to sell the all-new model.

Currently theres no launch date, but it is unlikely production examples will debut before model year 2005. If youd like to find out more about the Compass, check Jeep in the Concepts section of this website for a detailed review.