2008 Jeep Compass [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 46 Compass reviews and test drives.
Jeep Compass - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Jeep Compass ranks 21 out of 26 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 46 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Compass, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Compass offers car-like handling at an affordable price. However, it lacks the higher quality craftsmanship, sporty performance and off-road abilities of its competitors and falls in the bottom half of its large class.
Since the 2008 Jeep Compass just made its debut in 2007, Jeep's first crossover vehicle gets only minor changes for this year. New for 2008 are a more upscale dashboard and a few extra standard features, as well as a recalibrated drivetrain. Most reviewers see the Compass as a decent daily driver for a very affordable price, but it lags behind its more refined competition due to a somewhat underpowered engine and cheap interior materials. Because the Compass is car-based (built on the same platform as the Dodge Caliber hatchback wagon), it lacks the off-road abilities Jeeps are known for -- a point that disappoints many. Consequently, the Washington Post calls it "the Jeep for people who don't want Jeeps." On the plus side, in comparison with its off-road sibling, the Jeep Patriot, the Compass' car-like underpinnings give it a smoother ride.
The Compass comes in two trims -- the base Sport and the Limited -- in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
- "A decent, good-looking package for the price." -- Arizona Republic
- "The name says Jeep, but the vibe says cheap. Forget about the Halls of Montezuma -- the Compass is about the malls of Petaluma, about boldly going where sweaty-necked road-paving crews have already tread." -- Car and Driver
- "Buyers looking for a sport/utility with good road manners and exceptional fuel economy will find most everything they need in the Compass, but Jeep loyalists aren't likely to be happy about the brand equity given up for this new model." -- Motor Trend
- "Compass is a marvelous, affordable package that's a lot more fun to drive and has a lot more utility and room than you expect. And it just happens to be a Jeep." -- USA Today
Compass Performance - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Jeep Compass receives mixed reviews for its performance, with many reviewers registering disappointment that it's not an off-roader. Still, the compact SUV offers an adequate enough on-pavement experience and ranks in the top half of its class. "Suffice it to say that the Compass does not shape up as a rock-crushing trail rider -- even with its 4WD powertrain and 8-inches-plus ground clearance," says the Sacramento Bee. "The Compass is more at home taking five people and their belongings to the beach for a summer day." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why test drivers dislike the optional automatic Continuously Variable Transmission. continue
Compass Exterior - 6.4 (Mediocre)
The vast majority of reviewers are disappointed with the 2008 Jeep Compass's exterior styling -- which ranks near the bottom of its class -- simply because it doesn't look like a typical Jeep. "Hot or not: Not. My parking attendants didn't even know it was a Jeep!" says U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman. Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn why some reviewers like the SUV's grille but are still dissatisfied with the overall design, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Compass Interior - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Jeep Compass's five-seat cabin almost universally fails to impress and ranks at the very bottom of its class. Most reviewers approve of its front-seat comfort, citing good head- and legroom, but many find fault with the interior styling, which lacks good quality fit and finish. "Though accommodating, with plenty of nooks, bins and cupholders, the interior has too much hard plastic on the dash and console, which makes it feel cheap and chintzy," says the Arizona Republic. Continue with our Interior Review to learn why the Jeep's overall cargo capacity disappoints reviewers, or check out our interior photos. continue
Compass Safety - 8.8 (Very Good)
The 2008 Jeep Compass does well in federal government crash tests, leading to a very good safety score. It's also equipped with an array of safety equipment. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the Compass's safety features. continue
Compass Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Jeep Compass reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Compass comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, which also includes towing assistance. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue
