Ride & Handling

Before this review starts sounding like a bash fest, there is some good news. For an entry-level product, the Compass handles a lot better than it should. Steering feel is light without giving up any accuracy. You can zip through traffic and around corners just like you can in any sporty compact car.

There was a fair amount of road noise on the highway, which can be expected in the compact segment, but it wasn't as noticeable as in the Dodge Caliber. Wind noise was light, and the ride over a torn-up highway of grooved pavement was much better than I imagined. An above-average driving feel like this is much harder to attain than a quality interior, so it's a good thing Jeep got this right.

    See also:

    4WD Low Range
    Partial Off This is the normal operating mode for ESC in 4WD LOW range. Whenever the vehicle is started in 4WD LOW range, or the transfer case (if equipped) is shifted from 4WD HIGH range or NE ...

    Sentry Key
    The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unauthorized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whethe ...

    Inside Day/Night Mirror
    A two-point pivot system allows for horizontal and vertical adjustment of the mirror. The mirror should be adjusted to center on the view through the rear window. Headlight glare can be reduced by ...