NEW 2011 JEEP® COMPASS

Sophisticated new styling, upgraded interior, revised steering and suspension

* New 2011 Jeep® Compass has been redesigned, reflecting the styling cues of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee
* Upgraded interior features soft touch points and high quality materials
* Exceptional ride and handling performance in all weather conditions is the result of upgraded steering and suspension systems for 2011
* 2011 Jeep Compass features more than 30 safety and security features, including standard electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist and side-curtain air bags front and rear

Offering impressive 4x4 fuel economy and off-road capability in the compact-SUV segment, the new 2011 Jeep Compass features a sophisticated new design, with cues coming directly from the brand's premium icon, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Coupled with a host of interior refinements, and improved ride and handling characteristics in all conditions - courtesy of upgraded steering and suspension systems - the new Jeep Compass offers a unique blend of premium styling, capability, efficiency and value in the compact-SUV segment.

"With the new 2011 Jeep Compass, we've applied the premium design cues of our award-winning new Grand Cherokee," says Mike Manley, President and CEO - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Combined with new interior appointments, and refinements to the suspension and steering systems, Jeep Compass provides consumers with the ultimate combination of styling, capability, fuel economy, efficiency, safety and value in the important compact-SUV segment."

Delivering the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car, the new 2011 Jeep Compass also boasts more than 30 safety and security features, including standard side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), side curtain air bags front and rear, and available front-seat-mounted side air bags.

Design
The new 2011 Jeep Compass has a distinct family resemblance to the all-new, premium 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

With a new bonnet, new front bumpers, new front valence and new headlamps as well as a new grille that has been detailed with chrome surrounding the traditional seven slots found on all Jeep vehicles, the new face of the Compass features a more serious, yet sophisticated, appearance. Lighting performance is improved with the use of quad reflector headlamps, and the fog lamps are now high output projector lamps. The result is a vehicle that projects an attitude that is much more serious and conveys the Compass' capability in all weather and driving conditions.

New brightwork throughout the exterior lends an upscale touch without compromising the off-road performance of the Compass. A band of protective cladding has been added for 2011, serving to fend off debris when driving in challenging weather conditions or off-road, and providing a new appearance.

This trend continues with enhancements to the rear of the Compass. A new rear valence, new body-colour rear spoiler, and subtle, upscale touches including new LED taillamps, and on the Limited model, bright trim on the kick plates and a chrome exhaust, adorn the new 2011 Jeep Compass. Topping it off, a new set of roof rails have been designed with a slimmed down appearance and a small amount of brightwork. The 2011 Compass sports new, standard 17-inch alloy wheels, and 18-inch alloy wheels are also available.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Compass include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; a new centre armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allows drivers to operate the radio, cruise control, available handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard Cruise Control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls.

The new 2011 Jeep Compass offers an array of clever features consumers will appreciate, whether commuting to work, driving in challenging weather conditions, or exploring new trails or out-of-the-way places. Uconnect Navigation with iPod interface, a premium audio system with nine Boston Acoustic speakers, power sunroof, illuminated cup holders, and fold-flat rear seats are some of the available features that make the Compass the ideal compact SUV, enabling consumers to enjoy any adventure.

4x4 Capability
The 2011 Jeep Compass features Jeep's Freedom Drive 1 drivetrain configuration as standard across the range.

Freedom Drive I is a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode, designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is designed specifically for daily use, and is particularly useful in slick conditions that come with rain and light snow. Freedom Drive I also features a lockable centre coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Compass in four-wheel-drive lock mode to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

The 2011 Jeep Compass' powertrain is designed to deliver competitive performance in all weather conditions, along with improved fuel economy and on board refinement.

Compass features a 2.0-litre petrol World Engine that provides 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft. (191 Nm) of torque coupled with a five-speed manual transmission.

In addition, there's the option of a 2.2 litre Mercedes-Benz diesel engine which produces 163 bhp and offers 320 Nm of torque, available from just 1400 rpm. This engine boasts advanced Common Rail technology with a turbocharged in-line 4 configuration, leading to significant improvements in power output (+23 bhp) and torque (+10 Nm) over the previous 2.0 litre diesel engine, together with a significant increase in fuel efficiency.

About Jeep
Built on nearly 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

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For further information please contact:
Peter Newton, Public Relations Director
Tom Johnston, Press Relations Manager

Chrysler UK
Part of Fiat Group Automobiles UK Ltd
Tel: 01753 511431
Fax: 01753 516871
E-mail addresses: peter.newton@fiat.com / tom.johnston@fiat.com

This press release and images are available on http://media.chrysler.co.uk
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