2011 Jeep Compass: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 Jeep Compass is a major mid-cycle refresh that gives it a more upright, Grand Cherokee-inspired look. It also feels more polished inside and on the road, while the new Freedom Drive II package adds a more trail-focused version.
About the 2011 Jeep Compass
1st generation (2007-2016), major 2011 refresh year
Jeep positioned the Compass as a compact SUV that mixes Jeep styling, flexible cargo space, and available four-wheel-drive confidence with the easier driving manners and fuel economy of a small car-based crossover. Its core appeal was simple: everyday commuting and family errands with a bit more rough-weather and light-trail credibility than many compact rivals, especially when equipped with Jeep’s more capable four-wheel-drive systems.
The 2011 Compass lineup ranges from the practical Sport to the more comfort-focused Limited. Sport has a fold-flat rear seat, air conditioning, fog lamps, and stability control, while Limited adds heated leather-trimmed front seats, automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat, and 18-inch wheels. Freedom Drive II gives the refreshed Compass a more serious off-road setup.
What changed, by category
2011 Jeep Compass specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | CVT Automatic w/OD | CVT Automatic w/OD |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21–23 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26–29 mpg | 27 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 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Hill Start Assist | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| 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 | ||
| Reclining Rear Seats | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Jeep Compass fully redesigned?
No. The 2011 Compass received a major mid-cycle refresh within the first generation, not a full redesign. Its new front and rear styling, upgraded cabin, and revised road manners make it a substantial update over 2010.
What is the biggest difference between the 2011 and 2010 Jeep Compass?
The biggest difference is the 2011 model’s extensive refresh. It has a more upright Jeep-style exterior, a better-finished interior, and retuned steering and suspension for improved ride and handling.
Did the 2011 Jeep Compass get a nicer interior?
Yes. The 2011 Compass received softer-touch cabin trim, a new steering wheel, and backlit controls. Limited also has standard automatic climate control, reinforcing its more comfort-focused role.
Did the 2011 Jeep Compass become better off road?
Yes. The new Freedom Drive II package created a more trail-focused version of the 2011 Compass and gave the lineup more serious off-road capability than before.
Did the 2011 Jeep Compass get a new engine?
No new engine is the focus of the 2011 update. The major changes center on styling, cabin quality, steering and suspension tuning, standard equipment, and the new Freedom Drive II off-road package.