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2008 Jeep Compass Full Review
Date Published: 7/16/08
Also in the 2008 Jeep Compass Review:
5.
6.
Jeep Compass Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Jeep Compass Review
The 2008 Jeep Compass gets no major changes following its 2007 introduction. This compact SUV shares its basic design with Jeep's Patriot and the Dodge Caliber. Compass seats five and comes with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It comes in Sport and Limited trims. Standard on all models is a 172-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. Manual transmission is standard. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional. Available as a credit on the front-drive Sport with the CVT is a 158-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Maximum towing capacity is 2000 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are available.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.
Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V and Suzuki Grand Vitara. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Saturn Vue, and Toyota RAV4.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Jeep Liberty, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Rogue, and Saturn Vue.
Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V and Suzuki Grand Vitara. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Saturn Vue, and Toyota RAV4.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Jeep Liberty, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Rogue, and Saturn Vue.
News
Compass is just out, so no major changes are imminent. That includes an available V6, which apparently won't fit the engine bay.
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2008 Jeep Compass Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Cargo room | Acceleration |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Only AWD versions have been available for us to test so far. Those Compasses have adequate power away from a stop and around town, but modest reserve power demands careful planning before passing or highway merging. Compasses made available for test periodically hesitated during acceleration. A test AWD Limited with manual transmission did 0-60 mph in a lackluster 9.3 seconds. Manual-transmission versions feel only slightly quicker than those with the CVT. One manual-transmission test model suffered ragged clutch action.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 4.6 |
Only AWD versions have been available for us to test so far. Those Compasses have adequate power away from a stop and around town, but modest reserve power demands careful planning before passing or highway merging. Compasses made available for test periodically hesitated during acceleration. A test AWD Limited with manual transmission did 0-60 mph in a lackluster 9.3 seconds. Manual-transmission versions feel only slightly quicker than those with the CVT. One manual-transmission test model suffered ragged clutch action.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD models with CVT averaged 17.2 mpg in mostly city driving, 22.4-24.4 mpg with more highway use. A test AWD with manual transmission averaged 19.1 mpg in tests that included gas-eating performance runs. Compass uses regular-grade gas.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD models with CVT averaged 17.2 mpg in mostly city driving, 22.4-24.4 mpg with more highway use. A test AWD with manual transmission averaged 19.1 mpg in tests that included gas-eating performance runs. Compass uses regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality
Comfortable and stable. These small SUVs easily absorb most road imperfections. We noticed some float and jiggling over highway expansion joints. There's little difference between models with 17- and 18-inch wheels.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Comfortable and stable. These small SUVs easily absorb most road imperfections. We noticed some float and jiggling over highway expansion joints. There's little difference between models with 17- and 18-inch wheels.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Accurate, natural-feeling steering. We detected slight wander in gusty crosswinds. Body lean is moderate in corners. While Compass rides lower than most compact SUVs, it feels no more nimble. A large turning circle hurts close-quarters maneuverability. Brakes have good pedal feel.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
Accurate, natural-feeling steering. We detected slight wander in gusty crosswinds. Body lean is moderate in corners. While Compass rides lower than most compact SUVs, it feels no more nimble. A large turning circle hurts close-quarters maneuverability. Brakes have good pedal feel.
Quietness
Somewhat quieter than the similar Dodge Caliber. Wind rush is decently squelched, but road noise is fairly prominent, especially at highway speeds. An unrefined engine growl intrudes during acceleration.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Somewhat quieter than the similar Dodge Caliber. Wind rush is decently squelched, but road noise is fairly prominent, especially at highway speeds. An unrefined engine growl intrudes during acceleration.
Controls
The gauges are easy to read. Large, simple audio and climate controls are within easy reach, though the manual-transmission shift lever can block access to climate dials. Available rear-facing fold-down speakers in the liftgate are a picnic plus. Compass does not offer Caliber's chilled glovebox compartment.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
The gauges are easy to read. Large, simple audio and climate controls are within easy reach, though the manual-transmission shift lever can block access to climate dials. Available rear-facing fold-down speakers in the liftgate are a picnic plus. Compass does not offer Caliber's chilled glovebox compartment.
Details
Cabin decor is a tinge higher-grade than Caliber's, it but still imparts a cut-rate feel with lots of hard-plastic surfaces.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.2 |
Cabin decor is a tinge higher-grade than Caliber's, it but still imparts a cut-rate feel with lots of hard-plastic surfaces.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Generous headroom. The seats are mounted higher in Compass than in Caliber, expanding ample legroom. The driver seat is height adjustable, but it still didn't create ideal positioning for all our testers. The fold-out cell phone/MP3 player holder in the center console is a thoughtful touch, but it obscures the armrest and interferes with manual shifter use. Visibility to front corners and over-the-shoulder is impeded by thick roof pillars, and to the rear by tall headrests.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Generous headroom. The seats are mounted higher in Compass than in Caliber, expanding ample legroom. The driver seat is height adjustable, but it still didn't create ideal positioning for all our testers. The fold-out cell phone/MP3 player holder in the center console is a thoughtful touch, but it obscures the armrest and interferes with manual shifter use. Visibility to front corners and over-the-shoulder is impeded by thick roof pillars, and to the rear by tall headrests.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Adult-size headroom and legroom. However, the flat, soft seat lacks support. Step-in is low, but narrow doorways hamper entry and exit.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Adult-size headroom and legroom. However, the flat, soft seat lacks support. Step-in is low, but narrow doorways hamper entry and exit.
Cargo Room
Compass's cargo area is enhanced by an available flat-folding front-passenger seat. Unlike in Caliber, the Jeep's rear seatbacks fold completely flat. Open hatch barely clears the head of six-footers. A handy load-floor liner removes for easy cleaning. Interior storage is OK, but the door map pockets are too small to be really useful.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.1 |
Compass's cargo area is enhanced by an available flat-folding front-passenger seat. Unlike in Caliber, the Jeep's rear seatbacks fold completely flat. Open hatch barely clears the head of six-footers. A handy load-floor liner removes for easy cleaning. Interior storage is OK, but the door map pockets are too small to be really useful.
Value within Class
Compass is an SUV that flies in the face of Jeep tradition because it doesn't carry a pretense of off-road capability. Compared with others of its ilk, Compass lacks the overall refinement of the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, especially in interior decor. Fuel economy is decent for the class, but the 4-cylinder engine feels underpowered and coarse. Compass makes sense as a functional wagon for people who crave Jeep style but don't need go-anywhere Jeep capability. For most others, there are better alternatives.
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.9 |
Compass is an SUV that flies in the face of Jeep tradition because it doesn't carry a pretense of off-road capability. Compared with others of its ilk, Compass lacks the overall refinement of the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, especially in interior decor. Fuel economy is decent for the class, but the 4-cylinder engine feels underpowered and coarse. Compass makes sense as a functional wagon for people who crave Jeep style but don't need go-anywhere Jeep capability. For most others, there are better alternatives.
Total Score
| AWD Sport, CVT | AWD Limited, manual | AWD Limited, CVT | Class Average |
| 57 | 58 | 57 | 60.2 |
Scores for all Compact Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 42 | |
| Average Score | 60 | |
| High Score | 72 |
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2008 Jeep Compass Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/30/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD Sport 4-door wagon | $16,795 | $15,783 | $580 |
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| AWD Sport 4-door wagon | $18,545 | $17,376 | $580 |
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| 2WD Limited 4-door wagon | $20,825 | $19,451 | $580 |
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| AWD Limited 4-door wagon | $22,575 | $21,043 | $580 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
| Model | Rebate & Incentives | Type | Expires |
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| Compass | $750-$1500 cash back or 0%-5.9% financing. | Customer | 07/31/08 |
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Sport
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system w/rollover sensors, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, split folding rear seat, AM/FM/CD player, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
215/60R17 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, locking center differential.
Limited adds to Sport:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, height-adjustable driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, fold-flat passenger seat, reclining split folding rear seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, satellite radio, universal garage door opener, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
215/55R18 tires, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, locking center differential.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E
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Sport
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$2,125
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$1,955
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Cruise control, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, upgraded cloth upholstery, height-adjustable driver seat, fold-flat passenger seat, reclining split folding rear seat, map lights, removable and rechargeable interior lights, 115-volt power outlet, floormats, rear privacy glass.
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Security and Cargo Convenience Group
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Limited
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$495
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$455
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Daytime running lights, wireless cell phone link, cargo cover, alarm.
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Boston Acoustics Sound Group
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Sport
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$795
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$731
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Limited
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$495
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$455
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Boston Acoustics sound system, satellite radio (Sport), leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls (Sport), liftgate speakers. Sport requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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Rallye Group
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Sport
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$1,985
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$1,826
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Limited
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$1,850
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$1,702
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Unique exterior trim, driving lights, rear spoiler, sport suspension (Sport), 215/55R18 tires. NA w/2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, Trailer Tow Prep Group.
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Trailer Tow Prep Group
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Limited, Sport
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$250
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$230
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Engine-oil cooler, trailer tow wiring harness, full-size spare tire. Sport requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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Powertrain |
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2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine
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2WD Sport (credit)
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$-200
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$-184
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Requires continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
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Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
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Limited, Sport
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$1,100
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$1,012
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Includes manual-shift capability.
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Safety |
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Front side airbags
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Limited, Sport
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$250
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$230
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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Limited
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$1,395
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$1,283
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Includes AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
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Power sunroof
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Limited, Sport
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$800
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$736
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Sport requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
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Limited, Sport
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$320
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$294
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Sport requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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Heated front seats
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Sport
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$250
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$230
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Requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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Smoker's Group
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Limited, Sport
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$30
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$28
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Ash tray, lighter.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Engine-block heater
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Limited, Sport
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$35
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$32
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Sport requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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Special paint
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Limited, Sport
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$150
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$138
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Premium paint
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Limited, Sport
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$225
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$207
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Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
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Chrome alloy wheels
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Limited
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$825
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$759
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215/65R17 all-terrain white-letter tires
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Sport
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$140
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$129
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Sport requires Quick Order Pkg. 24/25/26E.
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Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Jeep Compass Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Jeep Compass 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.7 |
| Overall Length, in. | 173.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 65.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3326 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 60.7 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 40.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 39.4 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.4 /144 | 2.0 /122 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 172 @ 6000 | 158 @ 6400 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 165 @ 4400 | 141 @ 5000 |
| Availability | Standard | Optional |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed manual | 22/27 | --/-- |
| CVT automatic | 21/24 | 23/27 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Jeep Compass 4-door wagon |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | Lifetime/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Jeep Compass Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Jeep Compass Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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