Its sub-$20,000 starting price gets people thinking about the 2015 Jeep Compass. But this vehicle’s all-weather spirit and rear cargo stow space are added reasons to consider the Compass. Although front wheel drive is standard, Compass offers two different 4WD systems (Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II off-road package) as options. The High Altitude Package is a new for 2015 offering. This package includes a 6-way power driver’s seat, power express open/close sunroof, leather seating, and body color fascias. The Jeep Compass has 30-plus safety/security features, including side curtain airbags, electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes.

Power choices for the Compass are a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder releasing 158 horsepower and 141 pounds-feet of torque, and a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder producing 172 horsepower and 165 pounds-feet of torque. During a one-week test drive, the compact SUV addressed rough roadways with a low- key attitude, thanks in large part to an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. The 103.7 inch wheelbase vehicle has more than 22 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seat upright, 53.6 cubic feet with rear seats folded, and more than 62 cubic feet with front passenger seat and rear seats folded. Jeep Compass Latitude 4x4 has a $24,795 base price and collects 21 city and 27 highway estimated mpg with a 2.4-liter engine and 6-speed automatic transmission.