new Jeep Compass to include a Trail-Rated model

[haven]

Allpar.com is reporting that the newly restyled 2011 Jeep Compass will get a 4x4 with the Freedom Drive II package (similar to the package on the Patriot), a front fascia designed for off-road use, and revised springs that add one inch of clearance. The Compass with this equipment will carry the Jeep Trail-Rated badge. The Compass will also have a higher MSRP.

http://www.allpar.com/news/index.php/2010/12/jeep-compass-trail-rated-new-prices

There are a couple of spy photos of the new Compass here
http://www.allpar.com/model/jeep/compass.html

 

[x32792]

Allpar.com is reporting that the newly restyled 2011 Jeep Compass will get a 4x4 with the Freedom Drive II package (similar to the package on the Patriot), a front fascia designed for off-road use, and revised springs that add one inch of clearance. The Compass with this equipment will carry the Jeep Trail-Rated badge. The Compass will also have a higher MSRP.

http://www.allpar.com/news/index.php/2010/12/jeep-compass-trail-rated-new-prices

There are a couple of spy photos of the new Compass here
http://www.allpar.com/model/jeep/compass.html

Here's a link on Freedom Drive II. Appears to be computer and sensor operated without a traditional (manual, driver operated) transfer case:

http://www.jeep.com/en/4x4/how_systems_work/freedom_drive_2/

 

[maximumrob]

CVT would be awesome on my Rubicon.

 

[alosix]

CVT would be awesome on my Rubicon.

would have to be better than the minivan trans

At least it looks less ugly than the last model. I'd love to see the video/pictures of it crossing the rubicon... That still is what gets a jeep the trail rated badge right?

Jason

 

[jeeepguy]

^ x2...

The Compass was never a Jeep and never will be. This is marketing gone amuck, nothing more.

 

[jingram]

Not marketing run amock so much as trying to improve fleet CAFE rates.

 

[JeffRRC]

I think it a step in the right direction. At least they are improving the existing product line. Baby steps...

 

[86cj]

I don't understand why Jeep does not shoot for the American version of the WRX and other rally cars possibly with factory support, it seems like a better fit. If they put some power in it and really sorted out the chassis, it could give it some "streetcred" and not make owning one seem like such a bad idea. If not the kids could put Dakar stickers and Fart mufflers on them, Hype the whole thing up and create a Niche'..

 

[x32792]

^ x2...

The Compass was never a Jeep and never will be. This is marketing gone amuck, nothing more.

x3 Marketing run amuck.

 

[haven]

Autoblog posted the Jeep press release about the trail-rated 2011 Compass. http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/13/officially-official-2011-jeep-compass-shows-off-new-duds-trail/

The Trail-Rated version with Freedom Drive II package includes
-- second-generation continuously variable transaxle with low range
-- low range is engaged electrically when "off-road" mode is selected
-- 17-inch all-terrain tires and aluminum wheels
-- a one-inch raised ride height
-- a full-size spare tire
-- skid plates and tow hooks
-- fog lamps
-- manual seat height adjuster

There's a Freedom Drive I configuration as well. It's full time AWD, no low range, with a manually selected center diff lock.

All Compass models get a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates and a rear sway bar with increased diameter.

The price of the Compass will mirror that of the Patriot, meaning that a Trail-Rated model with Freedom Drive II will cost about $21,000.

The EPA rates the Patriot with Freedom Drive II at 20 mpg city, 23 highway. That's a little lower than similar small 4x4 SUVs or crossovers from Honda, Kia, Ford, Nissan or Suzuki. But none of these competitors offer low range.

 

[AmericaOverland]

x3 Marketing run amuck.

x4

It ain't a Jeep, even though it's badged as one.

 

[Mr. Leary]

I've seen a "Trail Rated" WK struggle with a basic trail in NM. The badge means nothing... might as well stick it on my little Honda.

 

[jeeepguy]

I've seen a "Trail Rated" WK struggle with a basic trail in NM. The badge means nothing... might as well stick it on my little Honda.

Used to mean something... every Jeep had to be able to cross the Rubicon, without damage, before it got a "Jeep" badge or designation. Until the marketing guys realized they could sell a few more vehicles to the unknowing public by duping them with a "Trail Rated" badge which was earned by tossing on a few more options, nothing more.

If Jeep ever gets back to its real meaning and roots, it will sell four vehicles... a YJ/TJ/JK/LJ type rig, an MJ/J-series type truck, an XJ type SUV and a ZJ/WJ type SUV. Everything else is a waste of production for them.

 

[Snafu]

Used to mean something... every Jeep had to be able to cross the Rubicon, without damage, before it got a "Jeep" badge or designation. Until the marketing guys realized they could sell a few more vehicles to the unknowing public by duping them with a "Trail Rated" badge which was earned by tossing on a few more options, nothing more.

If Jeep ever gets back to its real meaning and roots, it will sell four vehicles... a YJ/TJ/JK/LJ type rig, an MJ/J-series type truck, an XJ type SUV and a ZJ/WJ type SUV. Everything else is a waste of production for them.

Exactly...why do they need luxury and/or street performance when they have Dodge and Chrysler to cover that?

Bean counters see dollar signs when they start approving of badge engineering and the watering down of a brand.

 

[haven]

Your Jeep can still be "trail rated," even if it's not ready to compete for "King of the Hammers." The Trail Rated badge started in 2004 as a marketing tool. Its criteria are not hard to meet.

See http://www.jeep.com/en/4x4/trail_rated/index.html