Chrysler has officially announced its 2011 Jeep Compass, complete with sharp styling derived from the pint-sized CUV's big brother, the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
While the snappy sheetmetal is a galaxy-sized improvement over the old design, the real surprises come from the drivetrain. According to Jeep, the 2011 Compass will be able to kick out up to 28 mpg highway in all-wheel drive guise, which is some of the best fuel economy in the Crossover segment. Speaking of all-wheel drive, Jeep has honored the Compass with a Trail Rated model for those who want to put the tiny high-rider through its paces off road.
Jeep isn't known for sticking its Trail Rated badge on vehicles that can't do the deed, so odds are that the Freedom Drive II off road package-equipped Compass will be able to keep up with similarly capable metal from Jeep once the going gets rough. Skid plates, tow hooks, a full-size spare, 17-inch all-terrain tires, one-inch taller ride height and low-range capability are all part of the deal.
Under the hood, Jeep is offering the 2011 Compass with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque, as well as a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 172 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are available with either a five-speed manual gearbox or CVT (a unit we've loathed previously). The 2011 Compass is available in three trim levels, each of which is configurable with front or all-wheel drive as well as the low-range equipped off-road package. Hit the jump to have a look at the full press release.
XJ Cherokee
HG Premier
2011 Jeep Compass shows off new duds, Trail Rated package
