2009 Jeep Compass Review Summaries

What reviewers liked most about the Jeep Compass:

For an entry-level product, the Compass handles a lot better than it should. Steering feel is light without giving up any accuracy. You can zip through traffic and around corners just like you can in any sporty compact car.

-- Cars.com

...the Compass slaloms like a car. The mellow suspension tune toned down big impacts while keeping the body above its keel with reasonable roll control.

-- Car and Driver

It's comfortable, generally satisfying to drive, set up pretty nicely with features and doesn't cost that much to get off the dealer lot.

-- Edmunds.com

It's a hoot to drive because the gear ratios change instantly, with no hiccup or hesitation, as you tap the shift lever.

-- JSOnline.com

Jeep Compass Comparisons:

If someone wants economy and utility, they'll stick with a Mazda3 or another hatchback. If they want an SUV for higher ride height and more cargo room, they'll get a RAV4 or even the Jeep Liberty.

-- Cars.com

But the main characteristic that makes the Compass more of a Jeep compared to the Caliber and similar competitors is a lever on the console that, when engaged, locks the center differential for better traction in sand and other off-road conditions.

-- JSOnline.com

Best one-liner about the Jeep Compass:

Forget about the Halls of Montezuma - the Compass is about the malls of Petaluma, about boldly going where sweaty-necked road-paving crews have already tread.

-- Car and Driver