Jensen S-V8

The S-V8 is the first model of the reborn brand Jensen (more information), puts on sale now after three years of development.

It's a front-engine roadster rear-drive unibody steel chassis and aluminum body panels. The engine is a V8 Ford home with a displacement of 4.6 liters, 330 hp at 5,800 rpm and 434 Nm at 4,800 rpm. It is the engine of the Mustang Cobra SVT (R version of this model).

The gearbox is a five-speed manual with an optional limited slip differential (of the Australian company BTR). The suspension has parallelogram deformable in two axes (overlapping triangles) are helical springs.

The discs are 315 mm front and 305 rear, with ABS. The front tires are 225/45 tires on 7.5 "x 17". Back tire is 235/45 on 8.5 "x 17". That is, the rear wheels are larger than the front in width and diameter.

For a car as a V8 engine, dimensions are petite: 4.16 m long, 1.76 wide, and 1.26 high. It is therefore somewhat larger than a BMW Z3 and a little less than a Porsche Boxster. The wheelbase is 2.40 m rather short for a car with the engine in central position near front. Smaller still are the ways: 1.43 front and 1.46 rear.

Jensen says, weighing 1,300 kg, 250 km / h top speed and 5 s of acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h.

The S-V8 is made in Liverpool, with only right hand drive at the moment and, according to Jensen, and there are 300 orders. Jensen has developed a coupe version of this model, which so far did not happen.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep marketed in Spain in late 2010 a new Grand Cherokee. It's a completely different model in which change, besides the point, many other factors. This Grand Cherokee 2010 model shares structure with the Mercedes-Benz ML.

It is the first Jeep model with suspension air springs (called "Quadra Lift") which allows to vary the ground clearance. It is the only major change in the frame, leaving the Jeep as solid rear axle that had the Grand Cherokee model 2008, type independent suspension (with a deformable parallelogram).

The lever to activate the shaper has been replaced by a push button. To facilitate off-road driving is a new rotary knob (called Selec-Terrain ") to select the type of surface you are driving.

Now, all controls related to off-road driving are grouped: gearbox, speed control on descents, air suspension and the "Selec-Terrain '(image).

Jeep Grand Cherokee. Model 2010.Al least in the U.S., there are three types available all-wheel drive called "Quadra-Trac I", "Quadra-Trac II" and "Quadra-Drive II.

Debuts new petrol engine with six cylinders in a V, 3.6-liter engine capacity and 284 hp. The 5.7-liter V8 of 364 hp is maintained.

For now we do not know what the range of engines available in Europe but there will be a diesel engine (in the 2008 Grand Cherokee 3.0 V6 CRD is a 218-hp).

Jeep says nothing of a future hybrid drive version, something they have made some of its competitors (Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid, Porsche Cayenne Hybrid). Currently, in Spain there is only one hybrid SUV, the Lexus RX 400h (which will be replaced by a new model, the RX 450h).

The equipment includes (as standard or optionally) front airbags, side front and curtain airbags, stability control, active front headrests (image), a large panoramic roof, keyless entry and start (image), helps the remaining start , ventilated and heated front seats, heated rear seats, electrically adjustable rear camera or the position of the wheel (in height and depth).

Bodywork

Compared to the previous Grand Cherokee, the body is 4.5 inches longer and the battle almost 14 cm higher (2,915 mm, the same as the Mercedes-Benz ML). According to Jeep, interior space increases.

The doors have an opening angle larger (hind 78th instead of 67th). The drag coefficient improved from 0.40 to 0.37, while torsional rigidity is 146 percent higher. The tires are 17 or 18 "may also have a 20".

Jeep Grand Cherokee. 2010.The Grand Cherokee model has five seats. The rear seats do not move longitudinally, but may vary 24 º tilt of the backups (image). The boot capacity increases (not yet have data according to VDA method) has a double bottom with two removable compartments for storing things (image) and the spare wheel (before going under the boot on the outside). On the left side of the trunk is a rechargeable flashlight (image). The opening and closing the gate can be automatically operated.

You can not have driver assistance systems as an active developer of speed or obstacle detection in the blind spot, for example. The parking brake pedal is (image).

Like previous generations, this is the fourth, the Grand Cherokee is produced in Detroit (USA) and at least so far, in the Magna Steyr factory in Austria.

Command 'Selec-Terrain "

It is a rotary switch with five positions: "Auto" (automatic), "Sand / Mud (sand or mud), 'Sport' (Sport)," Snow "(snow) and" Rock "(rock). Each team makes the engine, gearbox, brakes, accelerator pedal, the reductive and the traction control and stability with a specific operation.

Suspension "Quadra Lift '

The air suspension has five height levels: Normal (206 mm), "Off-road 1" (244 mm), "Off-road 2" (282 mm), "Park" (168 mm) and "Aero" (191 mm).

Levels "Off-road is for driving off-road and level" Aero "to improve aerodynamics on the highway. These three heights are automatically adjusted, the other two (normal and "Park") if the driver can select.

Thanks to this suspension at varying heights, angles and improved features. The angle of attack (with the front bumper removed baffle) is 35.9 °, the ventral 25.1 ° and 29.2 ° departure (in the Grand Cherokee model 2008 were 32.3 °, 20.4 ° and 27.5 ° respectively ).

AWD Systems

Jeep Grand Cherokee. Model 2010.Hay three available. The simplest, called "Quadra-Trac I," is a permanent delivery system on all four wheels, without gear. The brakes are responsible for preventing any wheel slippage. The command "Select" Terrain "is not available with this drive.

The "Quadra-Trac II automatically varies the force that can do front and rear wheels through a center differential with a multi-plate clutch. It also has reductive; to activate it, the center differential is locked. The brakes are responsible for preventing any wheel slippage.

The system "Quadra-Drive II is more evolved. Works like the "Quadra-Trac II but also has front and rear locking differential. The "Quadra-Drive II can combine the effect of locking differentials and brakes.

Jeep Commander

The Jeep Commander is a SUV of 4.8 m long and seven-seater all mechanical components shared with Grand Cherokee (which has five seats). The driving qualities in the field and road from both models are very similar but not equal: the Commander is 146 kilos heavier and has more drag (and therefore spends less fast). The Commander of the departure angle is slightly worse because it has a rear overhang slightly longer.

The Commander is sold in Spain only to the level of equipment "Limited", permanent four wheel drive "Quadra-Drive II" and reducing (more information about your system drive). You can have a V6 CRD diesel engine 218 hp (51,350 €) or a V8 petrol 5.7 liters and 326 hp power (55,700 €). Among other elements, have stability control as standard, full record of the equipment of these versions. More information about the engines.

Its price is rather low given its power, with seven seats there any cheaper, but less potent. For example, diesel engine, a Volvo XC90 D5 with 185 hp is available from € 53,026 (and not reducing) and a Toyota Land Cruiser HDJ 100 of 204 bhp, from 65,270 €.

The petrol version also has a price advantage: a Volvo XC90 V8, 316 hp is available from € 68,061.

Between Commander and Grand Cherokee are notable differences on the outside and inside.

On the outside because when developing the Commander, Jeep has sought a resemblance to old vehicles of the mark, as the series of Cherokee that were manufactured from 1984 to 2001. In addition, the body of Commander is slightly higher and longer than the Grand Cherokee.

On the inside, because the seven-seat Commander has three rows of seats (this is the first Jeep with seven seats). The second row of seats is higher than the first and third more than the second. This distribution favors rear occupants can see the road, has the drawback that greatly reduces driver visibility to the rear. If the seven seats are occupied, it is virtually useless to look through the rear mirror.

The two seats in the back row are small for adults (no legroom and headroom to the roof) and access is not good. In a Land Rover Discovery there is more room on the third row.

However, the Commander, the last two seats are well supplied with details: they have vents for the legs and body, controls for adjusting the flow rate and air temperature and two holes to deposit beverage containers.

The second and third row seats can be folded easily and not much effort. When folded, there remains a flat load surface.

The interior of the Commander has standard sunroof over the front seats and two fixed glass windows with blinds and curtains on each of the two side seats in the second row ( "Command-View '), picture.

Both the Commander and the Grand Cherokee, finish quality is characterized by being worse than expected in a car with more than 50,000 €, but is economical in relation to competition.

This feeling is not conveyed to do with the design, if not with the materials used. The design is classic and unique (the panel had before it 16 bolts type "Allen", 2 of them with glitter).

The Commander (like the Grand Cherokee) has a soft, absorbent suspension that favors comfort road and bad roads. In addition, the suspension travel is long (especially on the rear axle) and good motor skills. The good results in field contribute tires that have serial Commander: about Goodyear Wrangler HP BSW A / S 245/65 R17 M + S. specifications

It's nice for wide roads and cleared at a rate no faster, because the suspension insulates well, because the engine can be heard recently and because the aerodynamic noise is low. Especially suspension comfort is better than an Audi Q7.

It is less stable than a Q7 and other SUVs that have a good compromise for the road and field, like the Nissan Pathfinder or a Volkswagen Touareg. The Commander is a car rather slow reactions and heavy note, their reactions on the road are not clearly better than a Nissan Patrol with five-door body.

Jeep Cherokee

The Jeep Cherokee is a midsize SUV (4.5 m) with five-door body, and reducing total switchable traction. It is sold with a 177 hp diesel engine and two types of change, one manual and one automatic. This model is on sale since 2008 and replaced the former Cherokee.

Since March 2009 there available a version called "Sport", in addition to the "Limited" that already existed. Its price at the time of writing this information is to 28.900 € (without the discount Jeep is making € 33,600). The "Limited" costs € 32,963 with manual gearbox, the automatic € 37,717 (with discount). The version "Sport" can not be automatic.

His driving on the road does not convey the same confidence as other models that are more ideal for this, such as the Honda CR-V or the Volkswagen Tiguan. The Jeep's suspension is soft and at the supports in the corners (high speed) occur around the rear axle rebounds remaining some confidence to Team Leader. In contrast, highway type road is a comfortable car.

Off-road, the reductive and the proper functioning of the traction system, with the ability to lock the center differential, give it an advantage over other models with bodywork SUV. On the slopes the suspension has an excellent absorption capacity, of all-terrain vehicle of this type, I only remember that it is better that of the Land Rover Freelander 2 in the Cherokee, when one encounters a deep pothole in the road that can not escape , those who do contract the muscles throughout the body, hoping a violent jerk, it usually fails to occur or is much less intensity than expected.

Jeep Cherokee. 2008.The model diesel engine is the same with the Wrangler and Dodge Nitro. Give a push enough for normal road driving and overtaking allows some security.

A year ago I tried with the automatic gearbox in a Cherokee who had the optional canvas roof (pictured). Then I was surprised how little you could hear the engine under normal conditions. Now I've driven with manual (version 'Sport') and I found something more noisy than those of most alternatives. The most room for improvement I think they are transmitting vibrations, which are noted clearly in the gear lever.

The appearance of the interior combines good details, such as controls that are on the doors are very similar to those used by Mercedes-Benz (may be the same) and there are many holes to leave things at hand, with other surprising in a car of this price (plastic with sharp edges or cuts in the upholstery poorly resolved). In general, interior quality, I think it is in an intermediate position between the Compass / Patriot and Grand Cherokee and below most of its alternatives.

Inside, there's room for four adults, a fifth passenger will not go where they should be comfortable because your feet are two drinks holders. The interior height is great, both front and back. The trunk of 419 liters capacity (1,404 L with the seats folded down), is walking distance to the vertical roller blinds covering it. In his piece is a reversible floor that conceals a small double bottom. This piece is coated on one side of the upholstery as the rest of the boot while the other is plastic. This can be used to put on it something we do not want to dirty the car (as muddy boots).

If the car gets dirty mud is very difficult to enter and leave without getting dirty, because there is no protection for the beam that is below the threshold of the door does not get dirty (in a Freelander 2 is not the case).

Some technical

Jeep Cherokee. 2008.Además Model Diesel Engine 2.8-liter displacement and 177 hp (with Diesel injection system through common with piezoelectric injectors and turbocharger type variable), Jeep offers the possibility of commissioning a gasoline-powered version of six-cylinder, 3.7 liter engine capacity and 205 hp.

The diesel engine is coupled to a gearbox six-speed manual (called NSG 370). Optionally, you can carry an automatic five (545RFE), the fuel is only available with an automatic four relationships (42RLE). The arrangement of the engine is longitudinal (as in all models except the Jeep Compass and Patriot).

The Cherokee has a monocoque chassis and AWD system manual connection called 'Select-Trac II. It has three modes: "2WD (rear-drive)," Auto 4WD (four wheel drive with central differential free) and "4WD Low" (all-wheel drive with locked center differential, reducing and stability control off). The lowering ratio is 2.72 to 1 and the gear selection is electric traction mode (image).

Among the items of equipment there is a speed control on descents "HDC (Hill Descent Control) and one TA to start ramp" HSA "(" Hill Start Assist ") which also has the 2008 model Grand Cherokee. The 'HDC' serves to maintain a steady speed going down steep grades and is only available with automatic transmission. The Start Assistant holds the car ramp brake for two seconds after the driver has his foot off the brake pedal. This system will have all versions.

The characteristic angles for the practice of road are sufficient, unless the car is used in areas too complicated: 29 º the attack, 20.4 º and 32.2 º ventral exit points. The rake angle can be increased to 39.1 º removing the air deflector bearing the bumper.

Jeep Cherokee. Model 2008.La suspension is the same type so far, but new evidence. Front is independent, has a rigid shaft behind (image). Directed by zip. The Cherokee platform shared with the Dodge Nitro (with changes).

Like all Jeep models, the ABS can detect the type of surface to improve its performance by varying the braking distance over which are very slippery (like gravel or dirt).

Brakes are four-wheel drive. The standard tires are 235/65 R17 measures, there are also some 18 "wheels with 235/60R18 tires. The spare wheel is mounted on the outside, under the boot.

As regards the model it replaces, do not change much of its dimensions: 4492 mm long, 1838 mm wide and 1808 mm high (the same measures in the previous model are: 4.500 mm, 1824 mm and 1,819 mm). It is therefore less wider and taller than a Land Rover Freelander 2, which is the same length.

The 2008 model Jeep Cherokee is built at the factory that DaimlerChrysler has in Toledo (Ohio, USA) with the Dodge Nitro, sharing model with the mechanical elements.

Equipment

Some security-related elements which form part of standard features include front airbags, head (of curtain), stability control with rollover function and trailer stabilization, pressure sensors in tires and windscreen wipers automatic connection. Comparison Sheet equipping version 'Sport' and 'Limited'.

The headlights have separate bulbs (halogen) for short and long. There is expected to have xenon headlights and active lighting system.

Jeep Cherokee. Model 2008.Algunos curious items of equipment that can have is a stereo with a 20 GB hard disk capacity to store music ( "MyGIG") or a canvas roof practicable "Sky Slider" (the sort that had the Citroën 2CV).

This roof is operated electrically and can move from front to back (revealing the two rows of seats) or from back to front (leaving the rear seats homeless). The noise entering the passenger compartment is higher than in a fixed roof version with glass or practical but I felt that the sound insulation is good and the noise level is not comparable to what can be a convertible with a canvas roof, at least at normal speeds.

Other innovations of the new Cherokee is that the rear window opens independently of the rest of the gate and, as standard, has a climate control with infrared sensor to measure body temperature.

The manual version has an upholstery fabric with a treatment (called "YES Essentials") that repels dirt, and does not absorb odors antielectrostática as easily as normal. The automatic gearbox version has leather upholstered seats.

Jeep Wrangler

Jeep has a wide range of SUV models with bodywork. Some used principally for the asphalt (Patriot or Compass), others in a compromise between road use or off (Cherokee or Grand Cherokee). In the Wrangler everything is done to get the best results in this field, especially in rugged areas with poor adhesion.

Currently the only road that is on sale with the approach of the Wrangler is the Land Rover Defender, to some extent, the Hummer H3 or Mercedes-Benz G Undoubtedly, this Jeep is a totally recommendable model for demanding off-road use.

The Wrangler currently marketed appeared in 2007. It is a new model and not an upgrade of the former. There are two variants that differ in their body, one of two doors (four seats) and a four-door (five seats), named Wrangler Unlimited. The measured two-door 4223 mm, the five-door 4751 mm and with a wheelbase 523 mm longer.

Jeep Wrangler. Model 2007El Wrangler is available with three trim levels, from 33,843 € to 41,262 €. The cheapest Wrangler ( 'Sport') has manual windows and no air conditioning. The other trim levels are "Sahara" and "Rubicon".

The engine range comprises only a version 2.8-liter CRD diesel 177 hp (available on all trim levels). Previously marketed a version of 208 hp 3.8 V6 that was available only for the more expensive version and, in turn replaced the previous 4.0 liter inline six-cylinder. The diesel engine of 177 hp at Wrangler moves easily in all circumstances, given a sufficient range (not easy to spend less of 11.0 l/100 km).

The Wrangler is available with a five-speed automatic gearbox or a manual six.

A unique feature of this terrain is that the roof (which may be of canvas or hard plastic parts (more information), and the doors can be removed (you need to have a tool to loosen the door hinge) even in versions with electric windows and central locking. In addition, the windshield may break down on the hood.

With all removed, remaining within sight of each anti-roll bars: Jeep has tried to keep the Wrangler's classic design, with minor modifications. For example, now the windshield is slightly curved, but so little is still crushing on him almost all insects.

Jeep Wrangler. Model 2007The mechanical configuration of the Wrangler is a classic road. It has a dual-beam chassis (twice stiffer than the previous model), solid axles, total switchable traction, recirculating ball direction and reductive. Their positive qualities come to light in areas trialeras or very complicated (its ground clearance is great and the characteristic angles very good (more information), for use and is one of the best SUVs you can buy.'s well that Jeep has a field exclusively terrain given that their range of vehicles is varied and includes other models better suited to the road.

On the road or in circumstances where they can shoot at a certain speed (such as roads in good condition), the Wrangler invited to lead to a slow pace because it is very stable: it is noted that the address is inaccurate, irregularities in curve appreciably affect the trajectory and is neither nimble nor gives a sense of poise.

Normally, the Wrangler is a rear-wheel drive with front axle Attachable: Selecting wheel drive, the front and rear axis are forced together, therefore, should only use the total traction on slippery surfaces.

For intensive use in difficult areas, the Wrangler is the most appropriate 'Rubicon'. This differs from the other models ( 'Sport', 'Sport +' and 'Sahara') that has a thicker front rigid axle (Dana 44), the front stabilizer is switched off, the front and rear differentials can be locked, has more protections in the underbody and a different transfer case making an extremely large reduction (4.0 to 1, compared to 2.72 at 1 models 'Sport' and 'Sahara'). With a simplistic and can be overcome great difficulties and steep slopes without touching the throttle (idle). There are few off-road series that have both qualities as SUV (more information in the section on driving impressions).

Jeep Wrangler. Model 2007En versions "Sport", the traction control is in charge of stopping the wheels lose traction (eg at an intersection of axes), but is a less effective than the ability to lock the differential and operational less smooth.

The model "Sahara" is the second most suitable range for intensive use in the field because it can optionally carry a limited slip rear differential and front stabilizer disconnected. This version can not carry, or as an option, locking front differential.

The Wrangler's interior is rugged and offers few concessions to comfort its occupants from noise (both the engine and the aerodynamic tire to travel) and suspension comfort (suspension works very well in areas trialeras, but absorbs only small irregularities asphalt, because it is very hard).

The driving position is flawed, as no support for the left foot, the lack of controls to regulate the mirrors (one must move directly to the glass with your fingers) and a headrest excessive harshness. The steering wheel has height adjustment only and lever that selects the various programs of traction is difficult to move.

Access to the rear seats is awkward because the front seats is very little forward throw. Once inside, there is enough space for two occupants. The folding rear seats. The trunk is 5 cm longer than in the previous Wrangler has a double bottom is useful for storing small objects.

All Wranglers have ABS, dual front airbags, checking tire pressure and stability control with a function that limits the risk of overturning (more information on the range).

The models 'Sahara' and 'Rubicon' include upholstery fabric "YES Essentials" fabric antimicrobial, odor and stain repellent, and resistant to fading. As in the previous model, the floor has a drain plug provided for washing the carrier with a hose.

The Wrangler is produced at the Stickney Avenue plant in the Chrysler Group in Ohio (USA).

Jeep Patriot

The Patriot is an all-terrain light of similar length to a Toyota RAV-4. It's the same car as the Jeep Compass but with a different body. The Dodge Caliber is also very similar but in this, besides the look, change the drive system (front in the Dodge). The Patriot has a five-door body, 140 hp diesel engine and an AWD system automatically reconnected.

Since it has no characteristic reductive or very favorable angles, off-road use is limited to trialeras tracks or areas of little difficulty, for more demanding use, the Cherokee or the Wrangler Unlimited are preferable.

On the road, his driving is like that of Compass unfolds once successfully adapts to the driver the address, very crowded but not as stable as a Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V. The stability control as standard allows fast circular with confidence thanks to its smooth operation. The movements of the body in tight corners are no more extensive than in other terrain.

Jeep Patriot. Model 2008.The cabin there is room for four adults and has a small trunk. The appearance of the interior is not a refined car, and abundant plastic (hard) and the quality settings are not found in other cars (rather than European, Japanese or Korean).

It is on sale from € 25,840, ie practically costs the same as a Kia Sportage or Hyundai Tucson and significantly less than the Toyota RAV-4.

It is also € 150 cheaper than the equivalent version of Compass. During the initial contact with the Patriot did not see any difference I make a model better than another. Yes, there is a reason why I would go for the Patriot and it carries a spare identical to the rest, the Compass has an emergency.

The Patriot measured 4411 mm long, 1756 mm wide and 1669 mm high (including roof bars). It is, therefore, longer, narrower and lower than a Toyota RAV 4. Its length is almost equal to that of a Wrangler Unlimited (4,404 mm) or a Compass (4,405 mm) and is slightly shorter than a Cherokee (4,500 mm). The wheelbase is 2635 mm (2,647 mm 2946 mm the Cherokee and the Wrangler Unlimited). The body design is reminiscent of other Jeep models, like the Cherokee or Commander.

The trunk has a cargo volume to the ceiling of 652 l. Jeep has not the capacity to cover the luggage tray, but will be close to the one with the Compass (334 l).

Jeep Patriot. Patriot 2008.The model is sold with the 140 hp turbo diesel engine (original Volkswagen) Chrysler mounts, in addition to Jeep models, the Dodge Caliber and Chrysler Sebring.

The gearbox is a six-speed manual (Aisin BG6).

It has a total switchable traction system automatically, without gear and with a knob to vary the response of the transmission system up to 50 km / h, this command should be used when the soil is too loose or the grip is very low, as on snow or mud (technical information on the AWD system). Jeep calls this system "Freedom Drive I '.

In some markets there are two drive systems available: front-wheel total switchable automatically (system "Freedom Drive II") with a variant of the automatic gearbox with torque converter (Jatco CVT2L) that can make development very short (of relation 19 to 1).

Jeep Patriot. Model 2008.La suspension is independent McPherson-type front and rear deformable parallelogram. The ground clearance is 203 mm, the same as a Compass and intermediate between that of a Suzuki Grand Vitara and a Land Rover Freelander 2.

The brakes are disc, 294 mm diameter 262 mm front and the rear (of the Compass). The tires are 215/60 R17 measures. The fuel tank is 51 l, not much, but enough given the low consumption of the diesel engine.

As safety-related systems is the standard antilock brakes, stability control with rollover function, front airbags and curtain.

Other items of equipment is a sound of Boston Acoustics speakers shutters (to sound out of the car when the door is open, image), jack for MP3 players (pictured), folding and reclining rear seatbacks divided in the proportion 60: 40, a control system for tire pressure or a rechargeable flashlight, among others

Jeep Compass

The Compass is an all-terrain light (SUV) with bodywork of five doors and four wheel drive without gear, like the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail or Toyota RAV4.

Since purchase, the Compass has because it has a low price, not because its standard equipment is limited (list of all-terrain models with these characteristics, ordered by price). Their quality is apparently lower than most alternatives.

The Compass is available from € 25,990 with a range that includes two engines (140 hp diesel and gasoline to 170 hp), two equipment levels (Sport and Limited) and two types of change (manual or automatic). Sport equipment is only available for the diesel version and automatic for petrol only.

On the relationship between price and product, the Jeep is closer to models like the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi VGT (25,200 €) or the Kia Sportage 2.0 CRDi VGT (25,256 €). Of these three, the Jeep is the only one who can bring stability control. A Ssangyong Actyon 200Xdi also has it and is cheaper (23,900 €).

Jeep Compass. Compass Model 2007.The measures 4405 mm long, 1761 mm wide and 1631 mm high. Dimensions are similar to those of a Toyota RAV4.

It is a transverse engine car, so it has nothing to do with other models that Jeep has made so far, all of longitudinal engine. It is also the first Jeep with independent suspension on all four wheels. The standard wheels are 17 "and optionally about 18".

Mechanically, the Compass has many elements in common with the Dodge Caliber and Jeep Patriot (Jeep begin sales of this model in September 2007).

Despite their appearance, the Compass is better than the Caliber road, thanks to a firmer suspension and tires: curiously, on the Limited, have less profile in the Jeep model (designed for driving off-road) that in the Dodge, which makes handling more precise.

In equal equipment, the diesel engine Compass is (depending on model) between 3,300 and 4,500 € more expensive than the Caliber. While the Jeep model seems preferable for several reasons, the price difference is large and possibly compensate only those who need the AWD system.

The Compass is developed successfully by road after the driver adjusts to the address, very crowded. It is not as accurate as the Toyota RAV4, for example, but can move quickly to safety, thanks to the smooth functioning of the stability control also has a special program to avoid overturning (element that is standard on all versions) . The movements of the body in tight corners are no more extensive than in other terrain.

Jeep Compass. Model 2007.Fuera road wheel drive system automatically connectable carry out its task (technical information on this device). What limits the spread of Compass in the field is a suspension with very short runs, low profile tires designed for the asphalt, the absence of a reductive characteristic angles (mainly the attack) unfavorable.

In km77.com have driven the Compass with the two available engines, the Diesel 140 hp and 170 hp gasoline.

The diesel is coupled exclusively to a manual gearbox six relations. The force that has this engine (Volkswagen origin) attached to the developments short gearbox, favor the recovery into higher gear, one of the best we've tested recently in this respect (table).

The engine vibrates is conveniently little but not acoustically isolated, so the sound reaches the passenger compartment with greater intensity than in other off-road diesel, as a Kia Sportage or a Honda CR-V. Like all cars we've tested with this engine (Audi, Dodge, Mitsubishi, SEAT, Skoda and Volkswagen), the relationship between performance and consumption is good.

We also briefly led the petrol version with automatic transmission. I could not appreciate the benefits of the Compass with this engine, but it is clearly better than the diesel into noise and vibration. Since the converter is automatic, some will perceive it as an engine noisier because, unlike a fixed relationship-box there is no equivalence between the noise of the engine and car speed.

The driver can intervene in the exchange through a sequential control, with which you can choose from six fixed ratios. The longest of them is not as long as the final development that is in automatic mode.

The interior looks better than the Caliber, possibly by the dark tone of the coatings (in the Dodge are gray), but still topped bad edges and made little adjustments. There is enough space for four adults. The boot, with 334 l capacity only until the curtain covering it, is similar to a KIA Sportage but is very small compared with the 586 l to have a Toyota RAV4 (comparative table of porters, sorted from highest to lowest capacity).

Jeep Compass. Model 2007.En equipment there are some unusual and useful items such as a light to the trunk that can be drawn to work as a flashlight (image) or a vinyl luggage compartment floor, easily washable.

Other items of equipment are curtain airbags, an optional stereo speaker Boston Acoustics with swivel (for ringing off the car when the door is open, image), folding and reclining rear seatbacks 12th, a pressure control system tire or auto-dimming rearview mirror, among others.

In the style there are some features of the mark, such as vertical seven-slot grille and round headlights, but has an unusual shape and proportions in Jeep.

With this model, Jeep hopes to attract one type of customer who has not so far and he did not consider buying a Jeep. This model is made in Belvidere (Illinois, USA).

Throughout 2007, will launch the new Jeep Wrangler two-door version and a four-door (called Unlimited).