OFFERING a perfect mix of luxurious creature comforts blended with rugged off-road capabilities, the Jeep Compass is a very up-market, competitively priced 4x4. Immediately recognisable as a Jeep, especially from the front with its larger-than-life grille, smart light clusters and rugged bonnet and bumper design, the Compass is guaranteed to stand out in any 4x4 crowd. The 18-inch alloys, deep tinted glass and shining tailpipe just add to its all-round appeal. But, the most surprising factor with this all-action model - which is capable of tackling any terrain - is the level of luxury found inside the cabin. For example, this Jeep has heated leather seats in a dark slate grey colour, a leather wrapped steering wheel and handbrake, a sliding armrest, cruise control, air conditioning, a nine-speaker audio system and Jeep’s amazing Uconnect system – a hub for all in-car media. This feature allows you to access the phone, radio, navigation and MP3 player using either voice command or at the touch of a button. You can even record memos whilst keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The driver and passengers alike are treated to an exceptionally comfortable and spacious ride and the Compass boasts outstanding suspension that helps absorb all the unexpected potholes lining our roads these days. Storage is catered for thanks to the generously-sized boot and numerous smaller storage options throughout the vehicle, including cup holders that are big enough to hold a bottle or can without it toppling over when you tackle a sharp bend. Despite its bulky size, the Compass proved quite agile and easily coped with busy city centre traffic. The all-round visibility was generally good although the three rear seat headrests caused a slight obstruction. But for me, it was out on the faster, more open roads that the Compass really excelled. The 2.2-litre, diesel-driven engine provided ample power as the vehicle moved comfortable alongside faster moving traffic with ease. Acceleration through the six-speed manual gearbox was both smooth and responsive and with a top speed of 125mph the Compass is certainly no slouch. Jeep has fitted a comprehensive list of safety features to the Compass, including anti-lock brakes with brake assist, active head restraints, numerous airbags, electronic stability control and plenty more besides. And the added bonus with this vehicle is its all-weather capabilities. So when Mother Nature hurls a snow storm in your path, the journey still continues in the Compass. FAST FACTS Jeep Compass 2.2 CRDi Limited Price: £23,595 Mechanical: 161bhp, 2,143cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox Max speed: 125mph 0-62mph: 9.8 seconds Combined mpg: 42.8 Insurance group: n/a CO2 emissions: 172g/km BIK rating: 20% Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles | 
