The old VW 2.0 TDI injector pump had become a millstone. He was replaced by a block Mercedes much better experience. This “new” Compass also treats its look and quality of its materials. Jeep celebrates its 70 years, times have changed. In July 1940, the U.S. military launched a tender to replace motorcycles and Ford Model T changed it used previously as a “light reconnaissance vehicle”. Three companies were in the starting blocks: Willys Overland, American Bantam and Ford. After testing different prototypes, the choice fell on Willys. It was the start of Jeep. A name that has the letters “GP” for “General Purpose” or the character of a comic strip Popeye “Eugene the Jeep”. Nevertheless, the Jeep became an icon and embodies, even now, all 4×4 vehicles to the general public. However, over time, the brand (now owned by Fiat) had to evolve to adapt to “modern times”. Thus was born the Compass in 2006. It was Jeep cities, cousin of the Dodge Caliber, for a female clientele and had no real off-road ambitions. With its 2.0 TDI engine Volkswagen was also the first Jeep ever to fall below the 7l/100 km (6.8 l/100 km exactly). But the vibration and sound of this engine, as well as the poor quality of the finish, would pose serious problèmeJeep Compass to the constructor.

A years later, Jeep offers a serious makeover to the smallest of its models. Aesthetically, first, the front closely resembles that of the new Grand Cherokee. Gone are the optical round and a little clumsy. Now the bow is charismatic. The grille and hood are also new, and the whole is rather successful. The changes are much less noticeable in the rear, while the tailgate has been redesigned and the LED lights adopt. A major criticism of the older generation about the quality of finish, specifically plastics. The effort at this level is evident, with materials more flexible and rewarding. By cons, there was still not entitled to a depth adjustable steering wheel!

But it is on the road that the new Compass surprised us the most. First, it is now available in traction, which is very well since virtually none of the users makes of 4×4. And two-wheel drive, it feels less weight to take. The suspensions were sérieuseJeep Compassment revised, and body movements are much less present than in the past. More consistent, management gives a better feeling of the road. In short, the dynamic array would be almost perfect if the brake pedal was not as chewy and not biting. Be careful not to be surprised, because under the hood, it moves. It has a 2.2 liter Mercedes home, a legacy of previous marriage with the Jeep brand with the star. The next generation of Compass in 2013, the right to Fiat engines.

Meanwhile, the engine Mercos him like a glove, this little Jeep. It is available in two versions: 136 or 163 horses. We tried the most powerful and the least we can write is that it grows really strong. The torque of 320 Nm is available from 1400 rev / min. Quiet and virtually vibration-free, it has a lot of punch on all six of the box reports and provides real driving pleasure. Best of all, the average consumption does not exceed 6.1 l/100 km and 172 g of CO2/km. Note again that the Compass is available in limited edition 70th Anniversary with 18-inch wheels, seats and a leather steering wheel, logos and 70th Anniversary of specific floor mats. Price: 29,900 euros.