Good direction taken with Jeep Compass
By Malcolm Gunn Wheelbase Media
It’s rare that any vehicle undergoes only minor updates while in production for more than a decade, but Jeep’s aged Compass has finally be replaced by a completely redesigned 2017 version that’s now on sale.
The new arrival is part of Jeep’s push to extend Compass sales into more than 100 countries, with models destined for North America originating from Toluca, Mexico.
While supplies last, the original Dodge Caliber-based Compass (as well as the similar, soonto-retire Jeep Patriot) will be sold alongside the new model. That might cause some confusion with buyers since both old and new Compasses are designated as 2017 models, even though they’re significantly different.
From most angles, the new Compass, which slots between the smaller Renegade and the mid-size Cherokee, resembles a smaller-scale version of the full-size Grand Cher- okee, which is a pretty decent vehicle to be patterned after. The Compass is also similarly sized to the original, except for a nearly-five-inch increase in width for the new model that contributes to roughly a 10 percent gain in stowage space, whether behind to split-folding rear seat or when it’s folded flat.
Also notable is a 400-pound reduction in base weight for the new Jeep. The Compass uses a modified Renegade platform, which is more rigid than before. The idea is to improve ride and drivability and also make the Compass more agile when tackling rough- or off-road conditions.
The interior is definitely a cut or two above the outgoing Compass, both in styling and in the quality of materials used for the dashboard, console, door panels and seat coverings. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that’s also found in both Renegade and Cherokee. It makes 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Transmission availability varies according to driveline choices.
Front-wheel-drive Compasses can be had with six-speed manual transmissions, or optional sixspeed automatics, while a nine-speed automatic is part of Jeep’s Active Drive 4x4 option.
The two-wheel-drive Compass achieves the best fuel-economy rating of the bunch at 23 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway, but you’ll only suffer only one mpg (city or highway) when adding four-wheel-drive. The Compass Trailhawk (what off-road aficionados consider as the only “true” Jeep trim level) adds Active Drive Low.
Both it and the standard Active Drive are fulltime systems that can direct 100 percent of the available power to any one wheel, as required. However the Trailhawk’s unit adds a 20:1 crawl ratio. Both systems also include Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system that allows drivers to pick from Auto, Snow, Sand or Mud settings.
From the instantly recognizable spindle grille to the impeccable workmanship throughout, the 2017 Lexus CT 200h delivers the brand’s signature design and luxury experience in a unique compact hybrid package.
Designed from the outset as a dedicated hybrid model, the Lexus CT 200h provides a roomy cabin within its compact exterior dimensions. For 2017, Lexus gives the CT 200h some distinctive new colors, including Atomic Silver, Caviar, Autumn Shimmer and Blue Vortex Metallic.
Perforated leather is also available, part of the optional Luxury Package that includes heated and ventilated front seats, memory system and more. The 2017 Lexus CT 200h fuel economy estimates of 43 mpg city/40 mpg highway/42 mpg combined help make it one of the most efficient luxury hybrid models without a plug available today.
Lexus Hybrid Drive in the CT 200h includes a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle inline fourcylinder gas engine teamed with a 650-volt motor generator for a combined system output of 134 horsepower.
A second motor generator in the hybrid system serves as a starter for the internal combustion engine and generator to charge the hybrid battery pack. The powertrain is mated to an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission that makes the best use of the electric motor’s instant torque and quickly finds the optimal ratio to enhance driving conditions.
The standard six-speaker audio system features the world’s first automotive speakers constructed with sustainable bamboo and resin. A 10-speaker system is available and includes Siri Eyes Free Mode that lets you call contacts, get turn-by-turn navigation voice navigation through Siri, select and play music from iTunes and much more.