Jeep Compass, 2007: The Weekly Driver

After examining the 2007 Jeep Compass inside and outside for several minutes, a good friend made an astute comment. "I like the exterior; it has a European look," he said. "But the interior looks like it's still from 20 years ago."

My friend is a car buff. He subscribes to car magazines. He once restored a Triumph. And he's eagerly awaiting the purchase of his first Corvette. In short, he knows automobiles.

His comment about the new Jeep took me by surprise. But it was also spot-on, since I hadn't noticed the new-old contrast. My friend's observation was also reiterated by several national automotive magazines. For instance, Consumer Guide commented: "Compared with others of its ilk, Compass lacks the overall refinement of the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, especially in interior decor."

Nonetheless, Jeep took a chance with the Compass, so give the manufacturer credit. It's Jeep's first car-type sport utility vehicle. And despite its dated interior, which one prominent internet site described as "screaming of rental car," the Compass has strong attributes.

My weekly test drive was the Compass Limited 2-Wheel Drive wagon. It had a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, 172-horsepower engine with a five-speed manual transmission.

The Jeep's exterior styling features the manufacturer's traditional seven-slot grille and round headlamps. But the '07 model has also been modernized with 18-inch alloy wheels (optional), a one-inch additional ground clearance over previous years as well as a more angular body.

The new good looks are also an overt sign that with its 07 Compass, Jeep has seriously entered the non-serious off-road SUV market. The Jeep Liberty and Wrangler are more suited for off-road treks. The Compass, which features its name in huge letters across the back lower trim, is a street machine with some resemblance to the off-road Jeep offerings.

The new-look also gives Jeep a chance in the compact SUV market segment that includes some vastly popular (and also primarily road) opponents - Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Suzuki Grand Vitara.

The Compass' standard features list is predictable and limited. Air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control, enhanced interior lighting, leather seating and heated front and rear seats are all options.

My test drive vehicle also included a few additional options. The Customer Preferred Package ($425) features automatically dimming rearview mirror, outside temperature and compass display, universal garage door opener, vehicle information center and tire pressure monitoring display. Sirius Radio ($195 for a one-year service) and chrome clad aluminum wheels ($825) were also installed.

The Compass performed above average during my week's journey. Steering and handling, braking and ride quality are within the parameters of what might be expected - solid, but not superior.

As a compact SUV, cargo space is not spectacular. Total cargo volume for the Compass is 60.7 cubic feet, while the Honda CR-V has 72.9 cubic feet and the RAV4, 73.0.

The Compass is comfortable. The seats have an living room feel and there are easy-to-access storage bins and cupholders. Likewise, seats fold well and flat, and the cargo area is easily accessible.

However, as my astute friend and consumer vehicle periodical writers have all detailed, the Compass in not too dissimilar from a house remodel project gone awry. The foundation and exterior paint have been upgraded and some parts of the interior are fine. But it's like the contractors left before the remodel was finished.

Safety Features - Dual front, side curtain front and rear air bags.

Fuel Mileage - 26 mpg (city), 30 mpg (highway).

Warranty - Bumper-to-bumper, 3 years/36,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/100,000 miles; Roadside assistance, 3 years/36,000 miles.

Base Price - $20,175.