When the Jeep Compass launched in the UK, the only model available was the Compass Rallye. Now, Chrysler has decided to offer the Rallye package as a Mopar accessory option on new Compass models in the U.S. Don't get too excited -- it's just an appearance thing, so if you were hoping for more grunt underhood, you'll be disappointed. Kind of like we were disappointed at last year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas when we found the Jeep MK49 Compass Rallye on which this new Mopar package is based with no changes underhood. Ah well...

If you're planning on buying a Jeep Compass in the U.S. now and want to butch up your ride a bit, the Rallye Package available from Mopar should do the trick. Available for 4x2 and 4x4 models, the Rallye Package goes for $1,985 (Sport) and $1,850 (Limited) and includes black-painted 18-inch aluminum wheels, a roof-mounted rear spoiler, pair of auxiliary driving lights mounted up front, a Mopar body kit that spruces up the front fascia and adds new rocker panels, a "Bright" exhaust tip and the requisite chrome Rallye badges. It's not a bad price to pay for the makeover. To us, however, this car is begging for the Caliber SRT-4's 300-hp motor to make it a real "Rallye" car.

PRESS RELEASE:

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

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 3, 2007 -

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 4x2 and 4x4 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," said John Plecha, Director – Jeep Marketing and Global Communications. "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.

Source: autoblog.com