The Jeep Compass is like the little kid who looks up to his big brother and wants to be exactly like him. However, aspiring to be a grown-up and acting like one are two different things. If both do not go hand in hand, there's something missing. In the case of the Compass, it's a big something: this vehicle has the looks of a Jeep but not the capabilities that have made the brand famous.

The 2009 Jeep Compass Limited 4WD with CVT retails for $26,795.

Aesthetically speaking, there sure are lots of similarities between the Compass and, let's say, the Wrangler. Of course, the seven-slot grille and round headlamps are prime examples. The flared fenders tend to suggest serious off-road potential (not the case, though), while the pillar-integrated rear door handles keep a low profile. It's the most urban-looking of all Jeeps and an affordable solution for Jeep fans who don't intend to venture deep into the woods.

For 2009, Jeep saw fit to redesign the cabin of the Compass. Here, styling is little better executed, although material quality is not on par with rivals like the Hyundai Tucson. The addition of chrome on the shift knob and around the air vents brightens the otherwise all-black interior. Hard plastics are everywhere and I got a sense that designers did not manage to get the most out of the layout. At least, it's durable.

Everything else inside is decent at best. Unfortunately, access and passenger room are not adequate, the seats lack support in all areas and the narrow door openings in the back make it hard to get in and out of the rear bench. In Limited trim, the Compass adds such goodies as heated leather seats, which come in handy on those cold winter mornings. Cargo capacity is commendable, especially when you fold the 60-40 split seatbacks.

Visibility is good, but the layout is questionable. Quite frankly, I didn't feel like I was sitting in a real Jeep. Where's the masculine touch? What's more, the steering wheel tilts but does not telescope, which makes it a bit more complicated to find a comfortable driving position. Soundproofing is also unimpressive as a lot of engine noise finds its way into the cabin -- even though Chrysler insisted on making the Compass quieter for 2009.

For 2009, styling is better executed with the addition of chrome on the shift knob and around the air vents.

A different kind of soundtrack
The Jeep Compass is motivated by a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder mill producing 172 horsepower. That's not bad, but when fully loaded or towing a maximum load of 2,000 pounds (907 kilos), the vehicle is largely underpowered. Performance is generally good, but the noise is a huge turnoff. Actually, it's hard to tell whether the engine is overly loud or the sound-deadening materials are not effective enough. One thing's for sure: a stronger powerplant delivering more low-end torque would help in a big way. Combined city-highway fuel economy is on par with the average compact 4x4 at 10-11 liters per 100 kilometers.

My Limited tester featured a continuously-variable automatic transmission, which certainly did not boost performance. In fact, this CVT is a slow, underachieving unit. On the plus side, the steering is decent and the braking system does a reasonable job.

With a base MSRP under $18,000, this Jeep is affordable for many buyers.

The good news about the Compass is that, despite not receiving the "Jeep Trail Rated" label, it does offer an excellent four-wheel drive system (optional). The vehicle's capabilities when the going gets tough are evident. Of course, given the relatively low ground clearance, don't be fooled into thinking you can overcome fallen tree trunks or wade through rivers.

Other options make the Compass pleasant to drive, while various safety features like ABS brakes, traction control and stability control combine to offer confidence-inspiring road manners. Meanwhile, the suspension is comfortable and nicely responsive. It's a shame that the CVT puts such a damper on the driving experience, which becomes almost totally devoid of excitement.

Competition
The 2009 Jeep Compass Limited 4WD with CVT retails for $26,795. The list of competitors is a lengthy one:

Ford Escape XLT I4 4x4 ($27,999)
Hyundai Tucson GL V6 AWD ($28,795)
Jeep Patriot Limited 4WD ($26,395)
Kia Sportage LX Convenience AWD ($25,895)
Mazda Tribute GX-I4 AWD ($26,245)
Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4WD ($26,998)
Nissan Rogue S AWD ($27,198)
Subaru Forester 2.5X Touring ($27,995)
Suzuki Grand Vitara JLX ($28,995)

Final word
The Compass is not a bad machine, but it seriously lacks refinement. True, some people like the idea of owning a Jeep. However, is the Compass a real Jeep? I don't think so. It's closer to a car than a sport utility vehicle. Granted, with a base MSRP under $18,000, this Jeep is affordable for many buyers, which makes it that much more attractive.