Jeep always brings an interesting bunch of trucks for us to test each year at Easter Jeep Safari. This year included the new 2011 Compass which is a huge improvement over the previous generation and can be equipped with a Trail Rated package. The design team took it even a bit further and added a 1″ lift and taller tires – then we got it dirty on Fins and Things.
The new Compass is actually an attractive cross-over, with 6/10ths Grand Cherokee appearance and a significantly refined styling. While not a serious trail machine it now looks more like a Jeep and would likely reward the driver looking for gravel road and snow performance.
Given enough of a running start, it even scaled the mini Lion’s Back in Moab and completed all of the Fins and Things trail. Lack of low range limits its climbing ability.
The Compass ended up being pretty fun in the mud and a rewarding challenge to drive on a moderate trail.
2011 Jeep Compass from Expeditions Portal on Vimeo.
