2010 Jeep Compass: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Jeep Compass is a light-update model, not a redesign. Its most important change is standard active front head restraints across the lineup.
About the 2010 Jeep Compass
1st generation (2007-2010), final year before the 2011 redesign
Jeep positioned the 2010 Compass as a compact crossover for buyers who wanted SUV usefulness and available Jeep 4WD traction without stepping up to a larger, heavier SUV. Its pitch centered on compact-car fuel economy and price, easy daily driving, and flexible cargo/seating, not serious trail use. Compared with traditional Jeeps, Compass leaned more urban and carlike, aimed at shoppers who wanted bad-weather confidence and a small, easy-to-park utility vehicle.
The Sport is the simpler, utility-focused Compass, with fog lamps, roof rails, 17-inch alloy wheels, and stability control. The more comfort-focused Limited has a 172-hp 2.4-liter engine, heated leather-trimmed front seats, a power driver seat, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
What changed, by category
2010 Jeep Compass specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Overdrive / Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, CVT w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21–23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24–29 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 158–172 hp | 172 hp |
| Torque | 141–165 lb-ft | 165 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 53.6 cu-ft | 53.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.4 in | 39.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Cruise Control | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Mirrors | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Power Locks | ||
| Power Windows | ||
| Reclining Rear Seats | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2010 Jeep Compass redesigned?
No. The 2010 Compass receives a light update and remains part of the first generation; the larger exterior and interior overhaul arrives for 2011.
What safety feature changed on the 2010 Jeep Compass?
Active front head restraints become standard on every 2010 Compass. They are fitted to both the Sport and Limited trims.
What changed on the 2010 Jeep Compass Sport?
Front-wheel-drive Sport models move to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and add a five-speed manual transmission pairing. The Sport also gains standard active front head restraints.
What changed on the 2010 Jeep Compass Limited?
The 2010 Compass Limited gains a standard six-way power driver seat and active front head restraints. Automatic climate control also joins its equipment list later in the model year.
Does the 2010 Jeep Compass pair remote start with the CVT?
Yes. For 2010, remote start can be paired with the continuously variable automatic transmission, commonly called a CVT.