2019 Jeep Compass Trailhawk 4X4
An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia
Overview:
This is the 2019 Jeep Compass Trailhawk 4X4 that is more than simply transportation. You can buy a commuter for less money or you can take public transportation. But when you want more it means you have another use for the vehicle. Younger very active guys and gals know the joys of the great outdoors. Jeep, to me, though not so young anymore is the first step toward off-road adventures. Older less active folks also know Jeep is the best safety net to accompany motor-homing adventures. I always love exploring around the country and Jeep is comforting and fun. It is a near perfect companion since some Jeep models are ‘tow flat’ capable. Near perfect, because only a few cars can be towed without a tow dolly.
Flat towing is only available on the Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. Flat towing is a major benefit, so although I’d prefer the comfort of the Compass I may find the simplicity of the flat towing is the better option for me.
General Information:
It is assembled in Belvidere, Illinois, USA. Parts: US/Canada 17%, Mexico 69%, Engine & Transmission – USA.Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Jeep:Cherokee,Compass,Grand Cherokee, Renegade, Wrangler, Wrangler JK, Wrangler JK Unlimited and Wrangler Unlimited.
Handling & Performance:
When the going gets tough the tough drive a Jeep, and Compass is a nice all-around car because they are the best to enjoy the outback with relative ease. My experience with Jeep Jamboree’s and Jeep Camp’s have impressed me with Jeeps agility off road.
I also gained an appreciation for the image of Jeep as a wartime hero. More recently, Desert Storm’s hero vehicle was the Humvee and it made an impression on all generations.
Styling:
Jeep is the official Icon to designate going off road and generally displays a consistent view of its rich heritage. From WWII small Jeeps to Desert Storm’s larger Humvee moved our troops to battle.
Fit and Finish:
Aside from the Wrangler Jeeps are refined like any other SUV.
Cost:
Price is as I expected it to be in today’s world, but it never ceases to amaze me how inexpensive cars can be. Consider that in 1927 you’d have been able to buy a (Very Basic) Ford model A for about $400-1,400. That translates to be around $20,000 today. Surely you can buy a very basic vehicle today for that or less and that means you get a lot for your car buying money. Henry Ford, of course, led the way.
Conveniences and comfort:
Even the most basic of cars today are extremely well equipped for most of the modern comforts you could want.
Consumer Recommendations:
I’m biased because of the memorable rugged off-road experiences with Jeep – old and new. And even in recent experiences the original WWII Jeep is still amazing. Basic, for sure, but it gets the job done. Friend Dave takes his WWII Jeep on our camping trips and on occasion I take spanking new off-road vehicles and Dave could still go places I could not. Drive a Jeep and you too can be impressed.
Flashback to my Navy Flying Days where we too used Jeeps – accessary equipment optional.
Recognized Competition:
| Brand | $$$ | MPG | Seating | Doors | Country of Origin | Assembled | Drive Train |
| Jeep Compass Trailhawk | 28,000 | 25 | 5 | 4 | USA | Mexico | 4WD |
| Mazda CX-3 | 28,000 | 29 | 5 | 4 | Japan | Japan | AWD |
| Nissan Kicks | 21,000 | n/a | 5 | 4 | Japan | Mexico | FWD |
| Subaru Crosstrek | 28,000 | 29 | 5 | 4 | Japan | Japan | AWD |
| Kia Sportage | 29,000 | 23 | 5 | 4 | Korea | Korea | AWD |
| Jeep Cherokee | 28,000 | 23 | 5 | 4 | USA | USA | 4WD |
| Honda CR-V | 30,000 | 29 | 5 | 4 | Japan | USA | AWD |
Good News:
Decent fuel economy for off-road capable, stylish, great handling, well priced.
Bad News:
n/a
Standard Equipment:
2.4 liter 4-cylinder Multi-air, 9-speed auto trans., 4WD, Off-road suspension, Rear red tow hooks, Selec-terrain system, hill start assist, hill descent control, electric parking brake, stability control, roll mitigation, trailer sway damping, fuel tank skid plate shield, front suspension skid plate, remote keyless entry with proximity entry and pushbutton start, speed sensitive power door locks, Park-View rear back up camera, rear window wiper / washer and defroster, sunscreen glass, front airbags, Uconnect with 8.4” display, SiriusXM satellite radio w/ 1 year subscription, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capable, Bluetooth streaming audio, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, 6-speakers, tilt and telescopic steering column, power front windows, rear 60/40 folding seat, climate control, 17” Aluminum wheels, automatic headlights, power heated mirrors with turn signals.
Gas Stats:
$3.19 / Gal avg. February 27, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
Pricing:
MSRP $28,795.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@autolove.com
Copyright © 2019 – An Automotive Love Affair