I have the CVT II, 4x2, with the trailer tow prep group, which, to me, almost makes no sense on this car. The rear axle, not to mention the gear ratio between the transmission and the rear end, really is not equipped to handle a load like that. My Cherokee has the trailer tow rear axle, but with a 4.0, there is some pulling power.
I have been a Jeep owner for years, and I just had to wonder if the 4x4 in the Compass is comparable to the older systems that Jeep used to use. I do not agree with the 10mph thing either, but seeing as how I don't have that particular system, I think the thing to remember with the Freedom I 4x4 as opposed to the Command-Trac that I have in my other Jeep (some older models are equipped with that, or either Selec-Trac or Quadra-Trac), is that the 4x4 system available on the Compass has NO low range gears. You are either in 4x4 (AWD) mode, or not. By that I mean, Jeep built a CAR with this one, period.
As you said, good for moderate hills, etc., but not much else. You have to consider also, that no matter what 4x4 system you have, it will not be full tilt at full speed. AWD in a Jeep??? I had a 4x4 in my '83 Subaru, which was a great car, but I want the ability to decide if I need 4 high or 4 low, depending on conditions, kind of like 4x4 on demand. In the Compass, isn't 4x4 synonomous with AWD? If so, why not just call it AWD? After all, no it's not trail rated, even though they did publish approach, break-over and departure angles, but why? Because it is a JEEP, and anything with that name has to at least have the option of being a 4x4.
What I really wonder is, seeing as how they put the Compass out to try and bring people into the Jeep family, how many people bought the Compass after having already had another Jeep, and why? For how many people is this their first Jeep? After all, there are two things that can be said about Jeep owners, once you have a Jeep, you will never own just one (I speak for myself in agreeing with that one), and Jeep owners are the most loyal to their brand. Well, my thought is, if you buy good, you get good. Any other thoughts?