Model Strengths:

• An Affordable Crossover Suv
• Fuel Efficiency Comparable To Hybrids
• Spacious Interior for Passengers or Cargo
• Top Government Ratings In Crash Tests

Model Overview:

Once again for 2010, there are two trims available: the base Sport and the Limited. All come standard with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that offers 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. All Compasses come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission. An automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with manual shift override control is optional. Front wheel drive is standard on both trims while 4-wheel drive is optional. A 2.0L 4-cylinder engine making 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque is available only on the Sport with front wheel drive.

The Compass offers a ground clearance of 8.5 inches, along with a 21-degree approach angle and 32-degree departure angle, both good for negotiating steep inclines. The rear seats split 60/40 and fold forward to expand cargo space. The front passenger seat folds forward to create a table-like surface or expanded cargo space for long items. Also, the center armrest slides forward three inches for shorter drivers, and it includes a cell phone flip pocket.

Active front head restraints are now standard across the lineup, as are side curtain front and rear air bags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control with roll mitigation, traction control and hill start assist. Supplemental front seat-mounted side air bags and rear passenger air bags are optional. The 2010 Compass gets five out of five stars for front- and rear-seat safety in side crash tests.

Standard equipment on all trims includes 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lamps, air conditioning and auxiliary audio jacks. Accessories such as a power driver-seat height adjustment, reclining rear seats and stain-repellent upholstery are available. All of these features are standard on the Limited, which adds 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, satellite radio and a 6-CD changer as standard.

There are a number of other packages available for both trims. Items that are available as options include heated seats, cargo cover, Bluetooth, remote start, flip-down tailgate speakers, subwoofer, sunroof, navigation system, digital music storage and a USB audio jack.

Model Changes:

The 2010 Jeep Compass remains unchanged from 2009. Last year in 2009, Jeep made several major changes to the Compass, to include improved sound insulation in the floor and engine compartment, as well as a revamped exhaust resonator to help reduce road noise.

Model Value:

The car-like 2010 Jeep Compass is the only crossover vehicle in the Jeep family and shares a platform with the boxy Jeep Patriot. For 2010, the Compass combines the utility of a compact SUV and the maneuverability and crisp handling of a small hatchback, with some added rugged Jeep character.

Its competitors include the Hyundai Tucson and the Suzuki Grand Vitara, but the Compass has a better fuel-efficiency rating, at 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway. Price is perhaps the Compass' strongest selling point. MSRP starts at $19,350.

Inside, there is plenty of room for four--five passengers in a pinch. The roof is tall, giving the interior an even-more spacious feel. Unique to the Compass are optional flip-down tailgate speakers, which many reviewers see as a big plus for the vehicle.