Auto Test: 2011 Jeep Compass Latitude 4x4

(KCBS) - This is an upscale version of Jeep's smaller SUV with a few styling touches, inside and out.

Power is modest, a 2.4 liter L72 hp 4, coupled to a CVT automatic which offers great smoothness rather than breathtaking performance, but it keeps up with traffic easily and is just right for climbing our Bay Area hills.

Low speed engine noise and high speed tire hum could be improved.

Inside, front and back seating is generous, with a cargo area far bigger than we used to have in most station wagons. This, of course, is not a wagon but it resembles one just a shade taller.

Ride and handling are reasonably good. Steering and brakes are above average.

Highway mileage in the upper 20s. Price--with an exceedingly long list of comfort features $26,579. This includes a "media center with 6,700 song capacity." I stopped listening after 3000.

-Don Mozley, Auto Test Editor

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