3 Reasons a Used Jeep Compass is a Good Off-Roader

Don’t let its looks or age deceive you, a used Jeep Compass still makes a good off-roader. Consumers and reviewers say “it’s still a Jeep’ like it should be offensive that you even questioned its off-roading capability, even if the engine isn’t that smooth. It’s almost ironic that a used Compass isn’t considered to be the best on-road vehicle, and is preferred for off-roading use; which was the opposite of Jeep’s intention when it was first released in 2007.

The only complaint consumers have about the Compass for on-road use is the engine and transmission aren’t as smooth as some of their competitors; that’s it. Other than that, consumers love the size, shape, style, interior space/comfort, and off-roading capability offered. But, I digress; so here are 3 reasons why a used Jeep Compass makes a good off-roader.

Lower-Price

For your money, the Jeep Compass gets you the most bang for your buck. Since all three trim levels can be equipped with the optional Freedom Drive II package, you are able to get the best off-roading experience possible for a lower price. The Compass is one of Jeep’s lowest-priced vehicles new — that means, you will experience even better savings if you buy a used one. For example, a 2012 Jeep Compass Limited costs an average sales price of $13,498 under 44k miles, and an average sales price of $9,000. While the Freedom Drive II Package costs a little extra to tack on a new 2012 Compass, you can probably find one for around the same price.

This is a huge advantage a used Compass has over a used Wrangler. Typically, used Wranglers hold their value extremely well, thanks to the customization. Therefore, the prices are set pretty high. If you are looking for a much cheaper off-roading alternative, that’s still more than capable for off-roading, then a used Compass is the way to go.

Freedom Drive II Package

The Freedom Drive II package is what makes a used Jeep Compass a fully functional off-roading SUV. It might not be as good as the Wrangler, but it can still get the job done just fine. This package actually gives the Compass Jeep’s highly respected Trail Rated badge, which means it’s been tested and proven off-road capable in some of the harshest conditions.

The Freedom Drive II package adds a four-wheel-drive system to the Compass, and gives it the ability to handle off-roading tasks such as rock-crawling and trail traversing. It includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle, and a low-range one that engages when the off-road mode is activated. It also upgrades the wheel size, as well as air filtration system, and adds skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps, and seat-height adjuster.

Without the Freedom Drive II package, a used Compass like the 2012 one listed above wouldn’t be able to handle many off-roading situations; so find one with this package if you can.

Size

Finally, the size of the Compass is good for off-roading; inside and out. The Compass is slightly smaller than the Wrangler, but still Trail Rated with similar off-roading specs. This smaller size could prove beneficial in certain off-roading situations, and might make it easier for the Compass to get in and out of tighter trail spaces than the Wrangler. Furthermore, the interior is the perfect set-up. It can comfortably seat 4 people, and still has plenty of cargo room.

The roomy interior and compact size of the Compass makes for a vehicle that is still big enough to handle the off-roading hazards, but small enough to get through tighter spaces in the woods. Combine the size with its Freedom Drive II off-roading capability, and the lower price; and you have a used SUV that makes a great off-roader.