The 2008 Jeep Compass gets a handful of equipment changes. Air-conditioning and chrome interior accents become standard in all models, and a navigation system is a new option for the Limited. Jeep has also made mild revisions to the engines and transmissions to promote smoother, quieter operation and introduced a limited lifetime powertrain warranty.
The 2008 Jeep Compass is a small car-based SUV with seating for five passengers. Both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations are available, and there are two trim levels: Compass Sport and Compass Limited. The Sport comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, a CD/MP3 stereo with an auxiliary audio jack and an easy-to-clean cargo load floor. Conveniences like power windows and mirrors, keyless entry and cruise control are all optional. You get these as standard on the Limited as well as 18-inch wheels, privacy glass, leather upholstery, heated front seats, reclining rear seats, satellite radio, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a 115-volt outlet.
Every 2008 Jeep Compass comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 172 hp and 165 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional. Available on front-drive Compass Sport models only is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 158 hp and 141 lb-ft of torque. The smaller engine comes only with the CVT and is bundled as part of an expensive option package. It does serve as a more fuel-efficient alternative to getting the CVT with the 2.4-liter, however.
Although generally well laid out, the Jeep's interior is ultimately defined by a sea of hard, low-quality plastic and inconsistent fit and finish. The front seats are well-cushioned, but an overly high beltline and dash, combined with the lack of a telescoping steering wheel, makes for an awkward driving position, especially for shorter adults. In addition, the vehicle suffers from uncomfortable front head restraints and significant blind spots caused by its thick D-pillars and rear head restraints. Those of taller stature will appreciate this SUV's voluminous headroom, however.
Although 172 hp is pretty decent output for a four-cylinder engine, the Compass feels sluggish during merging and passing maneuvers, especially when equipped with 4WD and the CVT. In addition, full-throttle acceleration results in the CVT holding the engine's rpm at redline, at which point both four-cylinders make an irritating racket. For these reasons, we'd steer most buyers toward a front-wheel-drive Jeep Compass with the manual gearbox.
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