On the plus side, Jeep product planners have seen to it that passengers riding in the 2007 Compass are well protected by a full complement of advanced safety features. Multi-stage front airbags and side-curtain airbags designed to reduce the likelihood of head injuries for outboard passengers in both rows are standard. Side-impact airbags, designed to protect the torsos of front seat occupants, are available as an option.

Other standard safety features include antilock brakes with brake assist, a feature that helps bring maximum braking force to bear in panic stops. To help nip an impending skid or rollover in the bud, both Compass models are also equipped with an electronic stability control system with an anti-rollover feature. A tire pressure-monitoring system is available as an option.

If a collision is unavoidable, DaimlerChrysler’s Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS) should help make the best out of a bad situation. After an airbag deployment, the system automatically unlocks all doors, turns on the interior lights, and shuts off the engine’s fuel supply to make it easier for rescue personnel to render aid after a crash.