2008 Jeep Compass making a splash

The 2008 Jeep Compass seems to be making a splash in the market. According to the Jamaica Gleaner, Automotives tested the Jeep Patriot which in their opinion was pound for pound the best value crossover SUV.

According to this article, "The Patriot has more space and luxury compared with the other products in its class. It has the power to go anywhere because of its 2.4 liter inline four, which is joined to a new-fangled CVT transmission. While not outstanding in any one area (except ride and off-road-ability), the vehicle is a pleasure to drive and many will love it for its great interior amenities."

Now, the title of this post says it is about the Compass. Yes, the Patriot has a little brother - the Compass. While the Patriot has the length of a seven seater, the Compass is built on a smaller wheelbase, so there is a limit to how big a family it can accommodate. But with about a half ton less weight to carry, and having the same size inline four engine as its big brother, the Compass is a fun-to-drive compact SUV.

The Compass carrying less weight means greater fuel mileage. MPG figures are now similar with the smaller engine equipped RAV4 and CRV. The Toyota RAV4 and the Compass get the same 27 mpg. But because of its bigger engine, the Compass has 172 hp compared to the lesser 150 hp of the RAV4. I like that!

While the article comes out of Jamaica, the facts and figures won't be any different in any part of the world. The Compass looks to be a great value, and if you are a Jeep lover, here is another great option with better fuel mileage.