The Jeep brand has long been synonymous with adventure, freedom, and off-road capability. But, for many, the idea of owning a Jeep is no longer reserved for rugged outdoor enthusiasts. With the introduction of more refined and feature-packed models, such as the Jeep Compass Latitude, the possibilities have expanded.
As the automotive market continues to shift towards more practical and versatile vehicles, the question remains: is the Jeep Compass Latitude a good car for everyday driving and occasional off-road excursions? The answer is not as straightforward as it seems. With its unique blend of on-road comfort, impressive technology features, and legendary 4×4 capability, the Compass Latitude has carved out a niche in the compact SUV market.
Whether you’re a city dweller looking for a reliable and feature-packed daily driver or an outdoor enthusiast seeking a vehicle that can keep up with your active lifestyle, understanding the pros and cons of the Jeep Compass Latitude is essential. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of the Compass Latitude, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.
From its impressive fuel efficiency and agile handling to its advanced safety features and innovative infotainment systems, we’ll provide a comprehensive analysis of the Jeep Compass Latitude’s capabilities. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether the Compass Latitude is the right vehicle for your needs and preferences.
Overview of the Jeep Compass Latitude
The Jeep Compass Latitude is a compact SUV that has been a popular choice among car buyers for its rugged design, impressive performance, and feature-packed interior. But is it a good car? In this section, we’ll delve into the details of the Compass Latitude, exploring its design, features, and capabilities to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Exterior
The Jeep Compass Latitude boasts a rugged and aggressive design, with a bold front grille, sweeping lines, and a sloping roofline that gives it a sporty appeal. The exterior is available in a range of colors, including Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, and Jazz Blue, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their taste.
One of the standout features of the Compass Latitude is its available LED lighting system, which includes LED taillamps, fog lamps, and daytime running lamps. These not only enhance the vehicle’s appearance but also provide improved visibility and safety on the road.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Compass Latitude is designed to provide comfort and convenience, with premium cloth or leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic temperature control. The cabin is also equipped with advanced technology features, including a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system.
In terms of space, the Compass Latitude offers ample room for passengers and cargo, with 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats also provide flexibility for hauling larger items.
Performance and Capabilities
The Jeep Compass Latitude is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides responsive acceleration and smooth shifting, making it well-suited for daily driving and highway cruising.
In terms of capability, the Compass Latitude is available with Jeep’s Active Drive 4×4 system, which provides improved traction and control on a variety of surfaces, including snow, sand, and mud. The system also features a Selec-Terrain traction management system, which allows drivers to customize the vehicle’s performance for different driving conditions.
Safety Features
The Jeep Compass Latitude is equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The vehicle also features a rearview camera and rear parking sensors, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
In addition to these features, the Compass Latitude has earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Jeep Compass Latitude is available in several trim levels, including the base Latitude, Latitude Plus, and High Altitude. Pricing starts at around $25,000 for the base model and tops out at around $35,000 for the High Altitude trim.
While the Compass Latitude is a well-equipped vehicle, it’s worth noting that some features, such as the Active Drive 4×4 system and advanced safety features, are only available on higher trim levels or as optional packages.
In the next section, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of owning a Jeep Compass Latitude, including its fuel economy, maintenance costs, and overall reliability.
Design and Features: What Makes the Jeep Compass Latitude Stand Out?
The Jeep Compass Latitude is a compact SUV that offers a unique blend of style, functionality, and capability. In this section, we’ll delve into the design and features that make the Latitude stand out from its competitors.
Exterior Design: A Balance of Style and Functionality
The Compass Latitude’s exterior design is a perfect blend of style and functionality. The vehicle’s sleek and aerodynamic shape is designed to provide excellent fuel efficiency, while its aggressive stance and rugged lines give it a bold and adventurous look.
The Latitude’s exterior features include:
- LED headlamps and fog lamps for improved visibility
- Chrome accents on the grille, door handles, and roof rails for a premium look
- 18-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires for a smooth ride
- Available two-tone paint scheme for a unique look
Interior Features: Comfort and Convenience
The Compass Latitude’s interior is designed to provide comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers. The cabin features premium materials, including cloth or leather-trimmed seats, and a range of amenities to make every drive enjoyable.
The Latitude’s interior features include:
- Uconnect 4 infotainment system with 8.4-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless connectivity
- Dual-zone automatic temperature control for optimal comfort
- Available heated seats and steering wheel for cold weather
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats for maximum cargo flexibility
Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Passengers
The Compass Latitude is equipped with a range of advanced safety features to protect you and your passengers on the road.
The Latitude’s safety features include:
- Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
- LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
- Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection
- Seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag
- Electronic Stability Control with Roll Mitigation
Capability: Off-Road Prowess Meets On-Road Agility
The Compass Latitude is designed to handle a range of driving conditions, from paved roads to rugged trails.
The Latitude’s capability features include: (See Also: Does Jeep Make a Hybrid Suv? – Hybrid Options Explained)
- Jeep’s legendary four-wheel-drive system with Selec-Terrain traction control
- Up to 9 inches of ground clearance for navigating rough terrain
- Approach and departure angles of up to 30.3 and 33.6 degrees, respectively
- Towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds
In the next section, we’ll explore the performance and fuel efficiency of the Jeep Compass Latitude, and how it compares to its competitors.
Is a Jeep Compass Latitude a Good Car? – Design and Features
When considering whether the Jeep Compass Latitude is a good car, one of the primary factors to examine is its design and features. The Jeep Compass Latitude is a compact SUV that boasts a sleek and modern design, with a bold front grille, sculpted hood, and a distinctive stance. The Latitude trim level is positioned as a mid-range option, offering a balance between style and practicality.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the Jeep Compass Latitude is characterized by its aggressive stance, courtesy of its 17-inch aluminum wheels and wide tires. The Latitude trim level is available in a range of exterior colors, including metallic and non-metallic options. The Compass Latitude’s front grille is a key design element, featuring a distinctive seven-slot design that is a hallmark of the Jeep brand.
Lighting
The Jeep Compass Latitude features a range of lighting options, including LED headlamps and fog lamps. The LED headlamps provide improved visibility and a distinctive look, while the fog lamps help to improve low-light visibility. The Latitude trim level also features LED taillamps, which provide a sleek and modern appearance.
Interior Design
The interior design of the Jeep Compass Latitude is characterized by its premium materials and attention to detail. The Latitude trim level features a range of interior color options, including black, gray, and beige. The Compass Latitude’s interior is designed to provide a comfortable and practical space for passengers, with features such as:
Available power-adjustable driver’s seat
Available dual-zone automatic temperature control
Infotainment and Technology
The Jeep Compass Latitude features a range of infotainment and technology options, including:
Available navigation system
Available 12-speaker Alpine audio system
The Compass Latitude’s infotainment system is designed to provide easy access to a range of features, including music, navigation, and vehicle settings.
Safety Features
The Jeep Compass Latitude features a range of safety features, including:
Available lane departure warning with lane keep assist
Available rear cross-path detection
The Compass Latitude also features a range of standard safety features, including:
Electronic stability control
Traction control
Practicality and Storage
The Jeep Compass Latitude is designed to provide a practical and versatile space for passengers and cargo. The Compass Latitude’s interior features a range of storage options, including:
Available cargo management system
Available rear seatback release
The Compass Latitude’s cargo area is designed to provide a spacious and versatile space for cargo, with a maximum cargo capacity of 27.2 cubic feet. The Compass Latitude also features a range of seating options, including:
Available 60/40 split-folding rear seats
Available leather-trimmed seats (See Also: Is a Jeep Grand Cherokee All Wheel Drive? – Essential Details)
Reliability and Maintenance
The Jeep Compass Latitude is designed to provide a reliable and low-maintenance driving experience. The Compass Latitude features a range of maintenance-friendly features, including:
Available maintenance reminder system
The Compass Latitude also features a range of reliability-enhancing features, including:
Available corrosion-resistant coating
Available advanced rust protection
In conclusion, the Jeep Compass Latitude is a well-designed and feature-packed compact SUV that offers a range of benefits and advantages. Whether you’re looking for a practical and versatile vehicle or a stylish and modern ride, the Compass Latitude is definitely worth considering.
Is a Jeep Compass Latitude a Good Car?
Design and Features
The Jeep Compass Latitude is a compact SUV that offers a unique blend of ruggedness, style, and functionality. Its design is inspired by the iconic Jeep Wrangler, with a bold front grille, angular lines, and a raised stance. The Latitude trim level is positioned above the base Sport trim and below the Limited trim, offering a balance of features and affordability.
The Compass Latitude’s interior is designed to provide a comfortable and modern driving experience. The cabin features premium cloth or leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 7-inch touchscreen display with Uconnect infotainment system. The Latitude also offers a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Key Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Forward collision warning
Blind-spot monitoring
Performance and Handling
The Jeep Compass Latitude is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-four engine that produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission, and offers front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The Compass Latitude also features a range of driving modes, including Auto, Sport, and Snow, which allows drivers to tailor their driving experience to suit their needs.
In terms of handling, the Compass Latitude is designed to provide a smooth and stable ride, with a focus on comfort and agility. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance of ride quality and handling, and the Compass Latitude features a range of electronic stability control systems to help maintain traction and stability.
Key Performance Features
2.4-liter inline-four engine
Six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission
Auto, Sport, and Snow driving modes
Practicality and Versatility
The Jeep Compass Latitude is designed to be a practical and versatile vehicle, with a range of features and capabilities that make it suitable for a variety of applications. The Compass Latitude offers a spacious interior, with seating for up to five passengers and ample cargo space (27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded).
The Compass Latitude also features a range of storage compartments and cubbies, including a center console storage bin, door storage pockets, and a cargo area storage net. The vehicle also offers a range of towing capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.
Key Practicality Features
Spacious interior with seating for up to five passengers
Storage compartments and cubbies
Door storage pockets
Maximum towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds
Pros and Cons
While the Jeep Compass Latitude offers a range of benefits and advantages, it also has some potential drawbacks and limitations. Here are some key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious interior and ample cargo space (See Also: WJeep Wrangler Manufactured? – Manufacturing Details)
Comfortable and modern driving experience
Cons
Limited off-road capability compared to other Jeep models
Infotainment system can be slow to respond
Limited availability of certain features on lower trim levels
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Jeep Compass Latitude is a solid choice for those looking for a compact SUV that offers a unique blend of style, functionality, and affordability. While it may not offer the same level of off-road capability as some other Jeep models, it is well-suited for daily driving and light off-road use. With its range of advanced safety features, comfortable interior, and good fuel economy, the Compass Latitude is a great option for those who want a reliable and practical vehicle.
Key Takeaways
The Jeep Compass Latitude is a reliable and capable vehicle, offering a unique blend of off-road prowess and on-road comfort. However, it’s essential to weigh its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Here are the key takeaways to consider:
- The Compass Latitude offers impressive off-road capabilities, thanks to its four-wheel-drive system and high ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-road adventures.
- The vehicle’s fuel economy is relatively poor, with an estimated 22 mpg combined, which may be a concern for commuters or those with long drives.
- The Latitude trim offers a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning and lane departure warning, providing added peace of mind on the road.
- The Compass’s interior is relatively spacious, with ample cargo room and comfortable seating for five passengers, making it an excellent choice for families or road trips.
- The vehicle’s infotainment system is user-friendly and feature-rich, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, but may require some getting used to for older drivers.
- The Compass Latitude’s exterior design is sleek and modern, with a bold grille and aggressive styling, making it stand out on the road.
- While the Compass Latitude is a solid choice for many drivers, it may not be the best option for those who prioritize luxury or high-performance driving, as it’s more focused on practicality and off-road capability.
- Ultimately, the Jeep Compass Latitude is a reliable and capable vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations, but it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a purchase.
By considering these key takeaways, you’ll be well-equipped to decide if the Jeep Compass Latitude is the right vehicle for you – and whether it’s ready to tackle the adventures that await you on the road ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jeep Compass Latitude?
The Jeep Compass Latitude is a compact crossover SUV that is part of the Jeep Compass lineup. It is known for its rugged exterior design, comfortable interior, and impressive off-road capabilities. The Latitude trim level is a step above the base model, offering more features and amenities, such as an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, heated seats, and a premium audio system. The Jeep Compass Latitude is available with various engine options, including a 1.4L turbocharged engine and a 2.4L engine, offering a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
Is the Jeep Compass Latitude a good car for off-road driving?
The Jeep Compass Latitude is designed to handle various terrain conditions, making it a great option for those who enjoy off-road driving. It features a Selec-Terrain system that allows drivers to adjust the vehicle’s settings to suit the terrain, including snow, sand, and rocks. The Latitude also comes equipped with a number of off-road features, such as a 4-wheel-drive system, a high-clearance suspension, and a skid plate to protect the underside of the vehicle. Additionally, the Compass has a respectable ground clearance of 8.5 inches, allowing it to navigate rough terrain with ease.
How does the Jeep Compass Latitude handle on the road?
The Jeep Compass Latitude is known for its smooth and stable ride on the road. It features an independent suspension system that helps to absorb bumps and irregularities, providing a comfortable driving experience. The Latitude also comes equipped with a number of advanced safety features, including electronic stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. In terms of performance, the Compass has a responsive steering system and a strong braking system, making it a joy to drive on paved roads.
Why should I buy a Jeep Compass Latitude over other compact SUVs?
The Jeep Compass Latitude offers a number of advantages over other compact SUVs, including its impressive off-road capabilities, comfortable interior, and robust feature list. Additionally, the Compass has a more rugged exterior design that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class. It also has a more spacious interior, with ample cargo space and seating for five passengers. Furthermore, the Jeep Compass Latitude has a more advanced infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display and a premium audio system.
How much does the Jeep Compass Latitude cost?
The price of the Jeep Compass Latitude varies depending on the trim level, engine option, and features. The starting price of the Latitude trim is around $28,000, while the top-of-the-line High Altitude trim starts at around $34,000. Additionally, the Compass has a number of optional features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, and a premium audio system, which can add to the overall cost. However, the Jeep Compass Latitude is generally priced competitively with other compact SUVs in its class.
What are some common problems with the Jeep Compass Latitude?
Like any vehicle, the Jeep Compass Latitude is not immune to problems. Some common issues reported by owners include transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical system malfunctions. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s infotainment system, including freezing and crashing. However, it’s worth noting that these issues are relatively rare and that Jeep has made efforts to address these problems through software updates and recalls. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help to prevent these issues from arising.
How does the Jeep Compass Latitude compare to the Honda CR-V?
The Jeep Compass Latitude and the Honda CR-V are both popular compact SUVs that offer a number of advantages and disadvantages. The CR-V has a more spacious interior, with more cargo space and a more comfortable ride. However, the Compass has more impressive off-road capabilities, thanks to its 4-wheel-drive system and high-clearance suspension. Additionally, the Compass has a more rugged exterior design and a more advanced infotainment system. Ultimately, the choice between the two vehicles will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the fuel economy of the Jeep Compass Latitude?
The fuel economy of the Jeep Compass Latitude varies depending on the engine option and driving conditions. The 1.4L turbocharged engine has an estimated EPA rating of 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the 2.4L engine has an estimated EPA rating of 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the Compass has a fuel-saving feature called ECO mode, which can help to improve fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions. It’s worth noting that actual fuel economy may vary depending on a number of factors, including driving style and road conditions.
How do I maintain the Jeep Compass Latitude?
Maintaining the Jeep Compass Latitude is relatively straightforward and can help to extend its lifespan. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements are essential to keep the vehicle running smoothly. Additionally, it’s recommended to check the vehicle’s fluids, including the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, on a regular basis. It’s also a good idea to wash the vehicle regularly and wax it every few months to protect the exterior paint. Regular inspections can also help to identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
Can I customize the Jeep Compass Latitude?
Yes, the Jeep Compass Latitude can be customized to suit your individual needs and preferences. The vehicle has a number of optional features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, and a premium audio system, which can be added to the vehicle. Additionally, Jeep offers a range of accessories, including roof racks, tow hooks, and skid plates, which can be installed on the vehicle to enhance its capabilities. It’s also possible to upgrade the vehicle’s engine and transmission, as well as its suspension and brakes, to improve its performance and handling.
Conclusion
So, is the Jeep Compass Latitude a good car? The answer is a resounding yes, for the right buyer. This trim level strikes a compelling balance between affordability and capability, offering a stylish and comfortable ride with the off-road prowess that Jeep is known for. It’s a versatile option that can handle daily commutes and weekend adventures with equal ease.
If you’re seeking a compact SUV that won’t break the bank but still delivers on features, performance, and that iconic Jeep attitude, the Compass Latitude is definitely worth a closer look. Its fuel efficiency, user-friendly technology, and spacious interior make it a practical choice for individuals and families alike.
Ready to experience the Compass Latitude for yourself? Schedule a test drive today and discover how this capable SUV can elevate your driving experience. Don’t just imagine the open road – conquer it with the confidence and style of a Jeep Compass Latitude.