New Rallye Package from Mopar® Is Available for 2007 Jeep® Compass

* Rallye Package outfits Jeep® Compass from head to toe with cool exterior accents
* Mopar® Body kit adds Rallye car toughness to athletic Jeep Compass styling
* Rallye Package available on Jeep Compass models sold in United States and international markets

The Jeep® brand continues its expansion into new territory and into the world of rallye car toughness with a new body kit from Mopar®. For a limited time, a new Rallye Package featuring Authentic Jeep Accessories from Mopar will be available for both 4×2 and 4×4 2007 Jeep Compass and Jeep Compass Limited models. Mopar is the Chrysler Group’s original equipment parts manufacturer.

Arriving in U.S. and international markets in late 2006, the Jeep Compass is an all-new compact sport-utility vehicle that combines classic Jeep cues with contemporary lines. The Mopar Rallye Package takes this sleek style another step, wrapping Jeep Compass’ modern design in an aggressive toughness.

The Rallye Package from Mopar enhances the sleek, sophisticated and expressive styling and appearance of the Jeep Compass. It embellishes its modern Jeep appeal and gives the Compass a character all its own.

The Jeep Compass Rallye Package – available in Black, Silver, Inferno Red, Jeep Green and Steel Blue – includes:

* Unique 18-inch x 7-inch black-painted aluminum wheels with machined edges and chrome center caps
* Roof-mounted rear spoiler that adds performance-oriented styling
* Auxiliary driving lights with covers that feature the Jeep logo
* Bright exhaust tips that reinforce the Compass’ forceful personality
* Chrome Rallye badge
* Mopar body kit featuring front and rear fascia overlay appliqués, lower honeycomb front fascia grille and side sill lower panels and door appliqués

The U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Jeep Compass Rallye Package is $1,985 (Sport) and $1,850 (Limited). Limited production began in April for the United States and international markets. Pre-orders are being taken now.

The Jeep Compass Rallye edition debuted as a concept vehicle at the 2006 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Jeep Compass competes in the compact sport-utility segment, which is expected to grow considerably in the next decade, giving the Jeep brand the opportunity to grow with it. Annual compact SUV volume in the United States for the 2006 calendar year was 520,045 units, up 34 percent from 387,828 units in 2005. The compact SUV segment is expected to continue to grow to 814,000 units by 2016. This is a great opportunity for the Jeep brand to attract new buyers who want a stylish, fuel-efficient, affordable, safe and capable SUV.

Authentic Jeep Accessories from Mopar are available for purchase and installation at Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships across the United States. Mopar accessories are covered under DaimlerChrysler’s 3-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty or Mopar’s 12-month/12,000-mile Limited Warranty, whichever is more favorable to the customer. These warranties are serviced by Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships. More information is available at www.mopar.com.

Oh yeah, this is great. I hope the US auto industry doesn’t wonder why it’s sucking wind right now…

So, this image of toughness is based on plastic body cladding, meant to embody a sport the brand doesn’t even participate in? Please, someone stop this insanity…

Already known for supplying upgrades sound systems for the 300C and Grand Cherokee, Boston Acoustics is having a go at the new Compass.

Boston Acoustics makes the Grand Cherokee sing.

VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP, Mich., June 28 /PRNewswire/ — The premium audio system on the all-new 2007 Jeep� Compass can help guide the mood - whether it be upbeat, carefree or mellow - of any driver. Visteon Corporation (NYSE: VC - News), in partnership with Boston Acoustics�, delivers a unique, premium audio system customized specifically for the Jeep Compass, which will hit showroom floors later this summer.

“With sound systems playing a key role in today’s consumer buying decision, Boston Acoustics is pleased to offer a premium-level option on the highly anticipated Compass,” said Michael Chass, OEM vice president for Boston Acoustics.

Jeep’s interior specs here.

* Breakthrough Jeep� vehicle conquers all-new territory
* Jeep Compass’ modern, urban design appeals to new Jeep buyers
* Interior features utility, flexibility and loads of cool innovations
* Value abounds with excellent fuel economy and long list of standard safety features

Auburn Hills, Mich., Jun 16, 2006 -

The Jeep� brand is expanding into new territory with the 2007 Jeep Compass � an all-new modern-styled compact Jeep that delivers fun, freedom, utility, excellent fuel efficiency and Jeep 4×4 capability at a terrific value. Jeep Compass combines the packaging and functionality of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car or small pickup.

Compass is the first Jeep vehicle to offer fuel economy near 30 miles per gallon on the highway � fuel-economy numbers not often found on an SUV. Compass also will be the Jeep brand’s first front-wheel-drive-based product with a fully independent suspension for comfortable on-road ride and handling and fun-to-drive characteristics. And with Compass’ starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $15,985 (including a $560 destination charge), the Jeep brand continues to grow by offering an affordable, modern-styled compact SUV designed to bring new customers to the brand.

“With Compass, Jeep continues to expand globally by offering a fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient and affordably priced Jeep vehicle designed to reach youthful customers who may not have previously considered the brand,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President � Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. “Compass is a new type of Jeep vehicle for non-traditional Jeep buyers. It allows the brand to compete in the fast-growing compact SUV segment, where there is increasing market demand for fuel economy, ride comfort and efficient packaging in an SUV.”

Jeep Compass contributes to the Jeep brand’s global lineup expansion to seven SUVs, including the Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty (Jeep Cherokee outside North America), Jeep Patriot, the legendary Jeep Wrangler and the all-new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited four-door.

The newest Jeep will be available in both Compass and Compass Limited models. Both are available in the United States with front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive capability and will arrive in U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of 2006. Four-wheel-drive models will begin to arrive in volume markets outside North America in the fourth quarter of 2006.

Conquering New Territory
Jeep Compass will compete in the compact SUV segment, which is expected to grow considerably in the next decade, giving the Jeep brand the opportunity to grow with it. Annual compact SUV volume in the United States for the 2005 calendar year was 368,000 units, up from 297,000 units in 2004. The compact SUV segment is expected to almost double to approximately 600,000 units by 2010 and almost triple to more than 814,000 units by 2016.

With the all-new Jeep Compass, Jeep is targeting single or recently married educated professionals in their early 20s to early 40s, who are independent and family-oriented. These U.S. buyers skew female and earn a median income of $60,000. Fifty percent are college educated. Upscale, fashionable and refined items fit their lifestyle. They want a sophisticated and modern vehicle that allows them to break from the routine, and Jeep Compass is designed and engineered to exceed their needs.

A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Jeep Styling
Sleek and sophisticated, the Jeep Compass broadens the global appeal of the Jeep brand by attracting new buyers who may not have previously considered it.

“Jeep Compass is an all-new design statement for Jeep,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President � Design. “Compass fulfills the demands of customers who want a Jeep vehicle that is modern, stylish and refined, but still offers the credibility and characteristics associated with the Jeep brand name.”

Compass features the Jeep brand’s signature seven-slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel openings. However, there also are several modern design twists that distinguish Compass from traditionally styled Jeep vehicles. The all-new silhouette, with a steeply raked windshield, expressive hood and deep fascia, gives the Jeep Compass its modern, yet capable appearance. The Jeep Compass’ side profile features uniquely sculptured fender forms, delivering a fresh, athletic interpretation of traditional Jeep trapezoidal wheel flares. Standard 17-inch aluminum wheels and available 18-inch aluminum or chrome-clad wheels explore Compass’ dual nature: off-road capable and on-road sophistication.

Jeep Utility Built Inside and Out
Jeep Compass’ flexible interior gives buyers the capability to do more in terms of seating friends and storing gear. A command-of-the-road seating position gives drivers an added feeling of control. Compass has 39.4 inches of rear seat leg room, 53.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded flat and 60.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the front passenger seat back and rear seats folded flat.

In addition to interior spaciousness and flexibility, Jeep Compass has many clever and unique interior features available that add functionality not typically found in a compact SUV, including:

* Available nine-speaker Boston Acoustics Premium Sound Group with subwoofer that includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate. When the liftgate is open, the speakers can swing down to face rearward for tailgating and other activities
* Auxiliary audio input jack for MP3 connectivity on standard radio
* Available dual purpose, self-recharging removable interior lamp, which is mounted in the headliner above the cargo area and can snap out of the bezel to serve as a flashlight
* Sliding center armrest that moves forward 3 inches to accommodate shorter drivers. The armrest lid includes a unique flip pocket for storing a cell phone or an MP3 player
* Available 115-volt outlet in the center console that can power small electronics
* Available fold-flat front passenger seat that creates a table-like surface for versatility
* Flexible 60/40 fold-flat rear seats with available recline feature
* UltraFloor� durable vinyl load floor that is both removable and washable
* YES Essentials� seat fabric � an easy-care, soil-repellant and anti-microbial textile that protects seats from stains, odors and discoloration
* Available navigation system that uses Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite technology to offer turn-by-turn route guidance with voice instruction, automatic re-route calculation and enough memory to store 100 addresses (late availability)

Jeep 4×4 Capability and Safety
Jeep Compass is the first Jeep vehicle available with both a standard front-wheel-drive system and an available four-wheel-drive system called Freedom Drive I.

Freedom Drive I is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance, as well as the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is recommended for daily use. Freedom Drive I also features a lockable center coupling, giving drivers the ability to put Jeep Compass in four-wheel-drive lock mode to handle deeper snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

Jeep Compass also demonstrates that capability and safety go hand in hand. Standard safety features on all Compass models include:

* Side-curtain air bags
* Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
* Brake Assist
* Electronic Roll Mitigation
* Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with rough-road detection
* Brake Traction Control

Compass’ standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes provide an excellent 60�0 mph dry pavement stopping distance of 127 ft.

Jeep Compass features standard 17-inch aluminum wheels and all-season touring tires. Available all-terrain outlined white letter (OWL) tires also are available and contribute to Compass’ 8.4 inches of ground clearance, a 20.6-degree approach angle, 32-degree departure angle and 21-degree breakover angle. The Jeep Compass Limited model features standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and all-season performance tires. An 18-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheel also is available as an option on the Jeep Compass Limited.

World-class Engineering
The 2007 Jeep Compass’ powertrain delivers world-class performance, fuel economy and refinement.

Compass features a standard 172 horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine with dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT), which helps optimize the torque curve at all speeds. This World Engine produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology not typically available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Compass’ price class.

Jeep Compass also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle and an available Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT2). CVT2 is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for pleasing engine response, precise ratio control and an available AutoStick� feature on the Compass Limited model that allows for manual control with the simulation of six stepped gears. CVT2 contributes to a fuel economy improvement of 6 � 8 percent compared with a traditional four-speed automatic transaxle.

A 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine will be available in key diesel markets outside North America.

2007 Jeep Compass Production
Production of the 2007 Jeep Compass began in the second quarter of 2006 at the newly refurbished Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant. The new 172 horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine that powers the Jeep Compass is built in the state-of-the-art Global Engine Manufacturing Assembly (GEMA) plant in Dundee, Mich.

Jeep Brand
The Jeep brand’s 65-year history of legendary capability has made it synonymous with freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity. In 2006, the Jeep brand continues to deliver on its promise to provide versatile, innovative four-wheel-drive vehicles with the introduction of the all-new 2007 Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Jeep brand vehicle sales increased 12 percent in the United States in 2005 to 476,532 units (their highest total since 2000) compared with 2004 sales of 427,329 units.

Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA)
The World Engine is a family of world-class four-cylinder engines produced by GEMA in Dundee, Mich., delivering an exceptional combination of quality, fuel efficiency, refinement and performance. GEMA is owned equally by DaimlerChrysler Corp., Mitsubishi Motors Corp. and Hyundai Motor Co. By optimizing the three joint venture partners’ strengths, global economies of scale and the latest practices in flexible teams and machines, GEMA aims to set a new benchmark in engine plant productivity.

* Robotics, lean dies and material flow improve quality, productivity and worker ergonomics
* 2007 Jeep Compass appeals to new buyers with competitive pricing

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 30, 2006

The Chrysler Group today announced the manufacturing launch of the all-new Jeep Compass at its Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant. The plant, which was extensively retooled in 2005, has become a flagship for Chrysler Group’s adoption of flexible manufacturing.

Flexible manufacturing is allowing the Company to bring its new vehicles to market more quickly and the Belvidere Assembly Plant to manufacture multiple products on one assembly line. Production of the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber began there in January 2006, while the 2007 Jeep Patriot is scheduled to begin later this fall.

“We are now starting to see the results of the new flexible manufacturing process that we believe is a competitive advantage for the Chrysler Group,” said Frank Ewasyshyn, Executive Vice President - Manufacturing. “Thanks to Belvidere’s ability to build multiple models off one assembly line, we expect the Jeep Compass production to cost significantly less than the initial investment we made in the plant to build the Dodge Caliber.”

Robotics

At the core of the new manufacturing process is a body shop comprised of robots instead of the dedicated tooling that was previously used. Belvidere is Chrysler Group’s first assembly plant to use a body shop comprised entirely of robotics. Only the robots’ end affectors, or “hands,” need to change in order to build the different models. That tool change is done automatically, within the time it takes to cycle from one vehicle to the next. In addition, the Belvidere plant is flexible enough to vary the production mix between three products anywhere from 0 to 100 percent of each model. A fourth model can also be piloted, or test-built at the same time, helping reduce the time needed to make new-model changeovers. The new body shop and other upgrades are part of a $419 million total Belvidere investment announced in 2005.

Many other changes are also taking place within the Chrysler Group manufacturing process to accommodate the multiple models. For example, new ways to make the required amount of stamping dies are saving the company up to 60 percent on the cost of those dies.

Material Flow

New methods of material handling are being implemented to manage the complexity of three models being built on one assembly line. The inbound parts sequencing center manages more than 1,800 different parts that are used in the Jeep Compass and Dodge Caliber build process. In addition to sequencing, this center provides parts metering, kitting and container management to the Belvidere Assembly Plant and delivers complete subassemblies just-in-time to the manufacturing floor.

A tunnel connects the 500,000 square-foot sequencing center to the Belvidere Assembly Plant. This facility, operated by TDS/US � one of Chrysler Group�s largest minority-owned suppliers � represents the highest level of integration within a Chrysler Group plant. TDS/US organizes parts, puts them in �kits� for individual work stations and delivers them to the end of a connecting tunnel for Belvidere employees to transport to the manufacturing floor. This process maintains in-plant stocks at optimal levels, minimizes delivery time and reduces costs an estimated 12 percent a year compared with the previous process. By carefully managing the material flow at the plant, the sequencing center helps workers focus on manufacturing quality and allows Belvidere to remain one of the most efficient manufacturing examples in the Chrysler Group family.

These pre-assembled modules reduce the number of components required to assemble the Jeep Compass
and Dodge Caliber, improving quality, productivity and worker ergonomics.

SMART

A new workplace organizational model, coined SMART manufacturing, is increasing the flexibility of the Belvidere workforce, while fostering greater creativity and innovation from plant employees. This model is being implemented throughout Chrysler Group’s Manufacturing organization. In addition to extensive training, the new workplace model lets employees design their own work stations. These changes provide a better work environment for employees and give increased support to assembly line team members.

“Belvidere Assembly is running on all cylinders,” said Kurt Kavajecz, Plant Manager � Belvidere Assembly Plant. “In the first half of 2006, we added a second shift and started production of the Jeep Compass and Dodge Caliber. In addition, we’re getting ready to launch the Jeep Patriot in a few months and have recently announced the addition of a third shift, approximately 1,000 new jobs. Our new workplace organization model, in which employees work in small teams, has fostered greater creativity and innovation on the plant floor and made for a very smooth process.”

Jeep Compass

The 2007 Jeep Compass is an all-new modern-styled compact Jeep vehicle that delivers fun, freedom, utility, excellent fuel efficiency and Jeep 4×4 capability � all at a terrific value. With a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $15,985, including a $560 destination charge, Jeep Compass combines the packaging and functionality of a sport-utility vehicle with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car or small pickup truck. Jeep Compass is designed to appeal to new buyers who might not have previously considered a Jeep vehicle.

The Chrysler Group is the city of Belvidere’s largest employer and has a significant impact on the community with 2,885 employees throughout Illinois who generate $188 million in annual wages (year-end 2005). The 3.7 million square-foot Belvidere Assembly Plant employs approximately 2,650 people. Union members are represented by United Auto Worker’s Union Locals 1268 and 1761. The plant began production of the Plymouth Fury and Doge Monaco in 1965. The Chrysler Group will implement its flexible manufacturing process in its Sterling Heights (Mich.) and St. Louis South (Fenton, Mo.) Assembly Plants next.

Jeep recently announced the pricing on the new cross-over-cute-ute-non-Trail-Rated-officially-Mall-Rated Compass. Here’s the not-too-hard-to-take details:

2007 Jeep Compass Pricing - USD

(All Prices Include $560 Destination)

4×2 / 4×4

~ Jeep Compass $15,985 $17,585
~ Jeep Compass �E� Package $18,585 $20,185
~ Jeep Compass Limited $20,140 $21,740

Canadian buyers can expect a prices to range from about $18,500 CDN to roughly $26,900 - these are estimates as actual prices have yet to be announced in Canada.

Here are the basic specs on what the rig offers:

~ 172-horsepower 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing (intake & exhaust)
~ standard 5-speed manual and the availability of the second generation of Chrysler’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT2) (Autostick optional)
~ active, full-time 4×4 system with a “Lock” function for use on low-traction surfaces
~ Brake Traction Control
~ Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
~ Brake Assist
~ Electronic Roll Mitigation - this should be helpful on certain trails…
~ 4-wheel anti-lock brakes
~ 8 inches of ground clearance
~ 21.1-degree approach angle
~ 32-degree departure angle
~ 21-degree breakover angle

Here’s the official press release from Jeep:

Auburn Hills, MI - April 4, 2006: Chrysler Group today announced the U.S. Manufacturer�s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for its all-new 2007 Jeep� Compass is $15,985 (including $560 destination). A modern-styled Jeep that delivers fun, freedom, utility and Jeep 4×4 capability, the Compass provides excellent fuel economy, safety and interior flexibility � all at a great value � in the compact SUV segment.

The Jeep Compass will begin to arrive in U.S. dealerships and international volume markets in the third quarter of this year.

�With Compass, Jeep continues to expand globally by offering a fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient and affordably-priced Jeep vehicle designed to reach youthful customers who may not have previously considered the brand,� said George Murphy, Senior Vice President � Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. �Compass is a new type of Jeep vehicle for non-traditional Jeep buyers. It allows the brand to…

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