Jeep Introduces Redesigned 2011 Compass

Jeep's all-star product over the last few months has no doubt been the new Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee was one of the first redesigned Chrysler products to debut post-bankruptcy, and it has been selling spectacularly.

In fact, last month over 10,000 units were sold, which a startling increase over the figures posted by the previous model. Its refined unibody nature and rise in demand of SUVs has worked together well for Jeep. The brand is hoping to work some of that success over to the Grand Cherokee's smaller Compass sibling.

The new Grand Cherokee is a clean, handsome design that works very well. The Compass from the get-go has been an utterly unattractive product inside and out. The car's development came at a low point for Chrysler and Jeep design.

Inside and out the Compass was in clear need of a refresh. Jeep did the best they could with the Compass, and the Grand Cherokee's front end has been grafted on - and it looks it, not quite melding well with the rest of the car's lines. However, the new Compass is world's better than the previous model. It's just a crossover that can't get an all-new redesigned model fast enough.

In the interior the transformation is equally dramatic. The 2010 Compass had an interior built with poor quality materials and lacked style and attention to detail.

The 2011 Compass changes things in a big way, with a new steering wheel, vents, HVAC controls and upgraded materials. Way to go Chrysler - the new interior is actually competitive and a world removed from the previous vehicle.

The Compass has two available engines: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 158 horsepower and 141 pound feet of torque and a 2.4-liter four making 172 hp and 165 lb-ft.

They are mated to your choice of a five-speed manual gearbox or CVT. Still no availability of a regular automatic transmission.

Power is delivered via front or all-wheel drive, and through a low range as well with the off-road package. Interestingly, the on-road oriented Compass has gotten a Trail Rated model for 2011.

Changes on the Trail Rated model include ride height increased by one-inch, skid plates, tow hooks, a full-size spare, 17-inch all-terrain tires, and the addition of a low-range four-wheel drive. Compare the 2010 and 2011 Compass models for yourself below.