Jeep for so long has always exuded a masculine image. But with the introduction of the Jeep Compass Limited, things may start to change a little for the iconic brand. You see the Jeep Compass Limited although an all-wheel-drive and a Jeep doesn't promise to be a serious off-roader. It's more of a suburb Jeep that combines functionality and packaging of a sport-utility vehicle with the handling, performance, fuel economy and price of a compact car---in short it's a Jeep that is perfect for women.

But these Jeep should not be belittled because with a little addition of Jeep aftermarket parts it can become a very powerful vehicle. Aside from that the Compass can very well compete with the features offered by most SUVs although as whole it just doesn't seem to come up to the standards set by the other models of Jeep. Like for instance, its seats are quite comfortable but feels like they are made for someone much shorter than any average male and that is exemplified by the rear-view mirror which even when tilted to the maximum would still remain about halfway below the eye-line of any average male driver. So what does this imply? That it's built for women.

And that's not all there, the cabin and the exterior finishes of the Compass are lightweight plastic from the door panels, handles, consoles, head restraints, etc. ---it's undeniable that this Jeep has more plastic than Barbie. The only non-synthetic material that the Compass have is the leather trim on the seats but the rest they feel like they have all popped out from injection moulds.

To offset for what it lacks, the Jeep Compass is powered by a 2.4 liter petrol engine that produces 125kW at 6200rpm and 220Nm at 4500rpm. The engine responds well providing an always on feeling courtesy of its variable valve timing.

The Compass is also easy to lock into 4x4 mode especially during harsh weather conditions or during pavement climbing when parking is scarce. Even when driving in standard mode the handling remained solid and steady. The Compass felt sure-footed that despite the rollover warning stickers displayed in the cabin.

If there is one thing that charmed women into buying the Compass it must be the sunroof which most women claimed to be lovely and the perfect size for mall parking spots. The heatable seats, together with the trip computer and its readouts for tire pressure, fuel consumption, external temperature and heading add to the reasons why women prefer the Compass.

And of course don't forget the not so aggressive styling and the beautiful color particularly the Marine Blue Pearl which really turn heads. The Compass also comes with a three-year or 100,000km warranty and a three year or 100,000km maintenance plan.

Here are the prices of the Jeep Compass Limited:

* Compass Limited 2.0L CRD Auto: R279,900
* Compass Limited 2.4L CVT Auto: R254,900
* Compass Limited 2.4L Man: R244,900