Thumbs DOWN: 2007 Jeep Compass

Welcome to Jeep’s first car. Don’t be fooled by the SUV like looks of this vehicle, it is based on the same platform as the new Dodge Caliber, which is the replacement for the Neon. This is a FWD car. While it is available with AWD it’s off road capabilities aren’t going to be much improved over any other car, Audi Quattro for example, that has AWD and in standard FWD setup it’s no better that a ’89 Olds Delta88 in the back country.

Why?
Also it’s extremely disproportioned, ungainly and ugly. I have no idea how it looks even “okay” in the picture, other than my camera was dying and this is the result. The only thing the Compass may be able to do is water down Jeep’s current reputation as a serious off road brand, it has McPherson struts for crying out loud.

To see Jeep trying to pass off this car as “Trail Rated” check out their website for the 2007 Compass.