Jeep Compass Finds Its Way

The Jeep Compass presents a likeable enough form. Its sharp front is close to the edge without going over, and the stylised grille   certainly steps away from the predictable.

The largish SUV cuts a trim figure for a five-seater that is spacious enough inside and in the back. Just be mindful of the auto tailgate when it’s closing. But the folks at Jeep had the smarts to place the close button within easy reach.

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Much of the Compass’ appeal lies in its connectedness and ability to offer its occupants a smooth, if not exciting, journey.

Easily connecting your mobile phone to Apple CarPlay and Goole Android Auto means you’ll be within hailing distance of your contacts and favourite music.

And once plugged in, the BeatsAudio sound system delivers a fairly good quality of music to fill the cabin, depending on your selection of songs.

Erring On The Side Of Caution

But you’ll be annoyed by the over-sensitive proximity sensors that keep cutting into the music like it’s deleting expletives, only  to alert you when another vehicle or shrubbery is close — though not that close!

But it could be compensating for drivers with poor road habits who are easily tempted by the 8.4″ UConnect touchsreen that lets you think you’re in a mobile office.

And anticipating human nature, the Compass weighs in with safety features that will try their hardest to keep you out of harm’s way, provided you behave responsibly.

The lane keep assistance is pretty determined to keep you between the dotted lines. Sometimes you have to grapple with it, especially if you forget to indicate. So, it’s helping to inculcate some good habits.

The blind spot monitor is also useful on the road, when you need to navigate this 1.4L fella in tight spots. And there’s parking assistance for those who passed their driving tests on a wing and a prayer.

Considering this nine-speeder is going for good consumption figures, it does suffer at the performance end.

Trade Offs

This is a lumbering machine, content to move at a pace that is not going to break any records. Put the foot down and it roars, but doesn’t rush. Probably why a 0-100kmh figure isn’t offered. But it should be over 10 seconds.

But if ever you’re in snow, mud or sand, the Compass is designed to get you through it. But there isn’t a compass onboard, though.

More than 65% high-strength steel is used to ensure the Compass keeps its occupants safe regardless of the terrain. For the average driver with children, that’s a good enough reason to consider the Compass for the daily duties.