What with its superb air-conditioning, classy upholstery, adjustable steering wheel, sunroof, brilliant suspension and sleek exterior, there’s not much on this Jeep that rekindles memories of its 70-year-old roots.
Story: Peta Lee
In fact, with all modcons, like electronic stability control, soft touch centre console, anti-lock braking system, all-speed traction control, etc, there’s absolutely no resemblance to the original Jeep that propelled the world into thinking out of the conventional sedan box.
Big, spacious, airy, luxurious, with its macho front grille and beefy 2.4 engine, the Jeep Compass Limited offers the off-roading enthusiast/city dweller an appealing option, particularly as prices start from just R274 990.
The Compass was built on the Dodge Caliber platform but is vastly different in looks. With increased suspension, the ride is hugely improved. There’s also unique shock tuning and high-strength steel springs for capable handling on mountainous roads and evasive manoeuvres, and all-speed traction control to help you maintain control during emergency braking.
On tar, the crossover SUV’s handling is precise and comfortable. In the brown stuff, you’ll find that with more than 200mm of ground clearance and the four-wheel independent suspension, the Compass does exactly what you want it to do. The engine delivers 125kW at 6000 and 220Nm at 4500rpm.
Inside, you can pile in the whole family plus luggage quite comfortably. The vehicle offers multiple seating arrangements, thanks to its versatile fold flat 60/40 split rear seats. The front seat folds forward to create a table-like surface for added versatility!
Jeep says that “every stitch in the premium leather-trimmed seats was crafted for your utmost comfort”, and they truly are ultra comfy. They’re also easily wipeable if you spill anything on them. There’s loads of headroom and legroom for all five passengers, too.
PS: Women drivers might like to opt for the Cherry Red Crystal Pearl shade… It’s lovely. Even more important for moms who drive children around, the Compass is seriously safe: there are more than 30 safety and security features, including advanced multistage front airbags that adjust airbag output to crash severity and side curtain front and rear airbags for all other occupants.
You have to wonder how those engineers of old would react if they were to compare today’s Jeeps to old Willys… Methinks they’d be highly impressed at the evolution.
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