Stepping into the two-door Jeep reveals an attractive but utilitarian cabin. That said it's a far cry from the function over form TJ, but everything has a purpose and features are kept to a minimum. The seats, that bring a whole new meaning to the word 'perforated', are a lightweight design, attractive and reasonably bolstered. Metal trim is everywhere, giving the Compass a much more upscale appearance than its targeted price point suggests. If the concept were produced the metal trim would most likely be reduced and formed from plastic for cost purposes. That said Jeep's Liberty has the best faux metal I've ever experienced in any price class. It even feels cold, like metal does, which first caused me to believe it was authentic. The automaker's skill in this area bodes well for the Compass interior, again if produced.
That last phrase is a perfect lead in to the all-important "will they build it" question. The fact that the Compass is mostly constructed from Liberty architecture and mechanicals means development time could be short. But even if Jeep has been steadily working on it since it debuted in January of 2002 it would still most likely be more than a year away from dealership showrooms.
But of course this is just speculation. DaimlerChrysler, Jeep's parent, may have ditched plans for the Compass after last year's New York show due to public reaction, only the proverbial fly buzzing DCX boardroom light bulbs can know for sure. And speaking candidly, as enticing as the Compass is I'm not sure that Jeep should dilute its go anywhere brand image to lure in a kinder, gentler consumer. Any way you look at it it's a tough call.