2014 Jeep Compass Debut

What's New

The Jeep Compass, along with the Jeep Patriot, has gone largely unloved by the general consumer. The use of a continuously variable transmission didn't help the Compass' reputation either, as many people aren't a fan of the shiftless gearbox. If you fall into that category then we have some good news for you. For the 2014 model year, Jeep has decided to drop the CVT in favor of a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2014 Jeep Compass will continue on with its shrunken Grand Cherokee looks, and will include new features like an optional back-up camera, acoustic glass, six standard airbags, available projector headlights, and styling tweaks made to the center stack and interior as a whole.

Who It's For

The compact SUV segment is a weird bird of sorts. It doesn't have as much space as a full-size SUV but can fit more cargo than your everyday sedan. The Jeep Compass goes up against the Subaru Forester, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4, and the Honda CR-V. The Compass has some stiff competition in the segment courtesy of the RAV4 and CR-V and has never really caught on like the other two have. However, Jeep has decided to drop the CVT out of the Compass for the 2014 model year in favor of a six-speed automatic transmission. Many think this will help the Compass in the long run and you can count us in among that group.

Key Features

Exterior styling on the Jeep Compass arguably makes it one of the best looking vehicles in its class. For the 2014 model year, styling is once again updated along with:

• An all-new six-speed automatic transmission
• Trail Rated 4x4 capability with Freedom Drive II off-road package
• Front-seat-mounted side airbags
• Available ParkView rear backup camera

What We Think

We really want to like the Jeep Compass but because of its harsh ride and CVT used in the past, it has turned many away. However, if the public is ever going to accept the Compass, the 2014 model is a very good start. Losing the CVT in favor of a six-speed automatic transmission is a quantum leap forward for the 2014 Jeep Compass. Combine the new gearbox with its attractive exterior styling and Jeep may have a winning formula for the compact SUV segment. Only time will tell.

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