Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Compass sharpens up

Based on what we saw in a few reader-snapped spy shots, the Jeep Compass is getting a much-needed makeover for the 2011 model year. This latest set of spy photos shows the new changes clear as day, and while the Compass' shape hasn't been altered (that odd C-pillar door handle is still intact), the completely revised front end is immediately more attractive than the outgoing model. It isn't terribly original, as it's clearly a derivative of the Grand Cherokee, but it's a huge step forward. Let's just hope Chrysler doesn't fudge it up with a Rallye version this time around.

Around back, things are largely the same, albeit with a new set of LED taillamps, more than likely reserved for higher-zoot trims within the Compass range. The rear bumper and lower fascia have been reworked slightly, but we won't fault you for not noticing right away, especially when the majority of your attention has largely gone to checking out the WK2-ified front end.

Like the vast majority of 2011 model year Chrysler vehicles, expect the new Compass to benefit from a greatly updated interior that includes higher-quality materials and a tweaked overall design. Judging by the Compass' kissing cousin, the recently facelifted 2011 Patriot, we don't expect much to have changed under the hood (the anemic 2.0- and 2.4-liter four-cylinder 'World Engines' will likely carry over unchanged), but we suspect improvements to the vehicle's ride, handling and NVH will be realized.

With the Detroit Auto Show only a few weeks away, it's likely that the refreshed Compass will make its public debut under the lights of Cobo Hall, with the first few examples going on sale very shortly thereafter.





Gallery:
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/spy-s...mpass/#3645172

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/07/s...s-fully-naked/

 

Looks better, that's for sure.

 

Is there anybody here (or even out there) that actually gives a crap about this turd? That car was pathetic from the beginning.

 

A nosejob at best.

 

at least chrysler is smart enough to give nosejobs across the board.

first the sebring, now this

 

Lipstick on a pig.

 

Kinda reminds me of a 1st-Gen Toyota Highlander.

 

Not a fan.
I think Jeeps are all fugly!

 

Still a POS.

 

What he said!

Koz

 

Not a fan of the Compass at all and this new front end doesn't help. It's just too big proportionally for the rest of the car.

 

Looks much better.

What needs to be proven is the better use of higher quality materials in the interior. The current compass is full of the cheapest plastics and cloth in the industry.

I've seen children's toys with better use of plastics and textiles...

 

Granted the Compass and Liberty are rats but do you really consider the new G. Cherokee and Wrangler fugly?

The New Cherokee looks brilliant. It's better looking than any Lexus SUV dare I say. In fact, it's one of the 5 best looking SUV's on the planet, IMO.





Problem with this new compass is that they glued on a generic version of the GC's front end onto the hideous old body. Not a single angle/line works on this thing.

 

Agreed, often the case with piecemeal tacked-on facelifts.

I like the looks of new JGC, and it drives nicely too.

 

From the side, to me, it looks like last year models' Toyota 4-Runner; minus the front end.

Although I still wouldn't buy a Chrysler, so it really doesn't matter to me. My bosses Jeep has just over 100,000 miles and is already leaking oil.