Jeep constructed the Jeep Compass to close the gap between the small SUV Jeep Cherokee and the compact Jeep Renegade. It distinguishes itself from its rivals with a spacious back seat, ease-to-use and modern tech features, and ideal off-road abilities.
Price and Value
The Jeep Compass has similar starting prices as its class rivals, and its price depends on the model year and capabilities of the vehicle. The mid-trim levels like the Latitude and Limited have an average cost that ranges between $6,800 and $23,500, respectively. And the top trip model goes for approximately $24,000.
If you want to invest in a high-value Compass model, but you are on a tight budget, you should stick with the base Sport model.
The Base Sport model comes with rock rails that shield the side sills when you go for an off-road adventure. If you love going through rough terrains, you can purchase the optional compact spare and protect yourself and your family members from getting stranded if you experience a flat tire. You can opt for the Sandstorm cloth upholstery for a distinct look. If your SUV is a family car, it would be best that you opt for safety and security packages that come with a plethora of features like rear cross-traffic alerts, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control.
Size and Seating Capacity
The Compass comes with two rows each that are adult-friendly and can accommodate up to five passengers. However, taller people can have limited headroom due to the panoramic sunroof. The rear outboard seats have a complete set of LATCH connectors, while the back middle seat has a tether anchor.
Besides that, the Jeep Compass interior is functional, comfortable, and spacious. The materials used in constructing the interior, such as the leather upholstery, are high-quality and easy to clean. Drivers venturing out on long-distance rides will appreciate the ample legroom feature that enhances their comfort.
There are 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and you can increase the space by folding the seats to provide 59.8 cubic feet of cargo area. Although that is a small area for a compact SUV, the site is enough for luggage space for short road trips and airport runs since it can hold 17 carry-on bags.
Battery, Range and Engine Specs
All models use an economical four-cylinder engine. While the acceleration rate of this model isn’t the fastest, it offers excellent mileage in trade. All front-wheel models come with a standard six-speed automatic transmission system, however, upgrading to an all-wheel-drive gets you a vehicle with a nine-speed automatic transmission. When you purchase the all-wheel-drive, you will enjoy a plethora of terrain-conquering drive modes such as Snow, Mud, and Sand modes that enhance wheel traction. The Trailhawk model comes with an extra Rock mode that directs power to the wheel with grip while ensuring it is in first gear.
The steering wheel is nicely weighted and responds efficiently to inputs. It also has an agile ride that you will appreciate, although it has some lean when you navigate tight corners. In terms of performance, the Jeep Compass is well-known for its off-road capabilities from its 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that generates 180 hp.
The top-three trim models come with Selec-Terrain management and a full-time 4WD system with Mud, Sand, Snow, and Auto settings. The Trailhawk model comes with two tow hooks, extra skid plates, hill descent control, and an off-road suspension, features that enhance its off-road capabilities.
In terms of gas mileage, the Jeep Compass does pretty well. The FWD gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Choosing the 4WD gets you similar gas mileage at 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. This is a bit less than its class average, but it is still about average.
Trims and Features
The Jeep Compass is available in four trim levels: Trailhawk, Limited, Latitude, and Sport. The Sport is the base model but a solid pick since it comes with a plethora of infotainment and comfort features. A standard Uconnect Infotainment system includes six speakers, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
However, if you want a machine with advanced safety features, you will have to purchase the top trim models such as the Limited. They feature a Driver Assistance Group package with extra specs such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and forward-collision warning. Other features available at the Limited trim model include remote start, a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, and an 8.4-inch touch screen. Optional features that enhance the machine’s comfort include ventilated front seats, navigation, and driver’s seat memory settings.
The Compass Latitude, which is below the Limited trim model, comes with satellite radio, vinyl upholstery, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and keyless entry. It also has optional features such as heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a panoramic roof.
The Trailhawk comes with extra off-road features such as hill-descent control, two tow hooks, and additional skid plates. Other features that make this a luxurious and comfortable machine include heated and ventilated front seats, a nine-speaker Alpine premium system, a power liftgate, and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety
The NHTSA gave the Jeep Compass a four-star rating in their Crash test. This car comes with a wide range of safety features, although they are not standard. They include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, rear parking sensors, and lane departure warning. Other safety features include automatic high-beam headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rear parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring. However, all model comes with a rearview camera as a standard safety advanced feature.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, it has a below-average rating that is 2.5 out of five. However, drivers can benefit from a five-year powertrain warranty and a three-year limited warranty covering the expenses if unwanted repairs pop up.
The Takeaway
The Jeep Compass is one of the best compact SUV models available. And although it has a few downsides, the machine boasts impressive off-road prowess, a spacious cabin, and an easy-to-use infotainment system. It also features unique styling that gives it a luxurious and expensive look. Average handling, modern safety features, and ideal fuel economy make the Jeep Compass stand out among its rivals. If you want to buy a small off-road SUV, this car merits all considerations. It is affordable compared to its competitors and offers more passenger space when compared to its Jeep SUV siblings.
