Is the Compass really a Jeep, thing?

When Jeep introduced the Compass for the 2007 model year; I instantly thought (and still think) that it was one of the best names ever given to a vehicle with adventurous aspirations – something Jeep vehicles have always represented. However; the Compass didn’t quite live up to its Jeep heritage, or its own name for that matter. When Jeep announced that Compass would receive an update for 2011; I wasn’t expecting more than a minor appearance refresh.  I simply didn’t think that Chrysler would invest a lot of money, time, and energy to significantly update a vehicle that they have already announced will be replaced in a few short years.  I was wrong about that, and thankfully so.

Photo: Courtesy of Chrysler

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jeep comm center

One of the first modifications I made to the TJ was the addition of a CB radio.  I wanted to take her off road, and my Jeepin’ buddies suggested that I get one so we could all stay in contact on the trail.

Photo: KevinsPocket (c) 2011

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‘the fastest production Jeep ever built’

When I think about Jeep, it’s rarely about speed (well, speeds over 5mph at least.) Most Jeep enthusiasts modify their vehicles to go slower, not faster.  Think rock climbing, not 100 meter dash…

That mentality changed a bit in 2005 when Jeep debuted the Grand Cherokee SRT8. Despite its lack of low range 4WD, its lower profile, and its obvious on road racing ambitions – it was hard for (even the most devout) Jeep enthusiasts to speak ill of the tricked out Super Jeep.  When the newly redesigned 2011 WK2 Grand Cherokees started selling well in 2010… rumors and spy shots of the assumed SRT version started to surface.  We finally got an official glimpse of the very much desired 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 last week in New York…

Photo: Courtesy of Chrysler

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