2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Jeep Compass, despite receiving exterior styling updates and new wheel designs, retained much of its familiar look since its last redesign in 2017. It resembled a smaller version of the Grand Cherokee, with our test model featuring attractive 19-inch multi-spoke wheels that matched the paint, giving it an upscale appearance. Inside, the Compass made a stronger case as a premium SUV, especially in the Trailhawk Elite specification. It boasted a new dashboard design with updated digital instrumentation, infotainment systems, soft-touch surfaces, luxury-grade leather seats, and enhanced sound deadening, elevating its sophistication.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza, resurrected for the 2021 model year, rode on the proven Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. It measured 4,739 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,674 mm in height, with a 2,960 mm wheelbase. The Venza's modern exterior design, with its deeply scalloped body side and LED-lit tailgate, gave it a Lexus-like appearance. Inside, the Venza continued this theme with an elegant layout and high-quality materials. The layered dash and well-placed touchscreen display added to its appeal, while the supportive front seats and spacious rear seats ensured comfort for all passengers.

The 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 172 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. Despite its "Tigershark" moniker, the engine lacked the power to compete with other SUVs, and a turbocharger would have been beneficial, especially for those planning mountain adventures. The nine-speed automatic transmission, paired with the engine, was reluctant to downshift, resulting in a busy and unrewarding powertrain character. The Compass's drivetrain was its least appealing feature, with a slow automatic stop/start system and disappointing acceleration. However, the Jeep Selec-Terrain system and Active Drive AWD system provided some off-road capability, and the Trailhawk trim offered enhanced features for more challenging terrains.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine combined with three electric motors, delivering a total of 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing AWD capability. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to tailor performance. The Venza's regenerative braking system helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to its efficiency. The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family hauler with a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned among Jeep's similarly sized SUVs, offered enough space for four adults and their luggage. The Trailhawk Elite trim enhanced its premium feel with features like 12-way power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. The redesigned dashboard and Uconnect 5 infotainment system improved perceived quality. The Compass provided 770 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,693 litres with the seats folded, surpassing the more expensive Cherokee model.

The 2022 Toyota Venza accommodated five passengers in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, ensuring comfort for three adults. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. Convenience features included an overhead console, power-adjustable front seats, and an electric parking brake. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack had minimal impact on cargo capacity, offering 816 litres of space behind the second row and 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin with sound-blocking materials, resulting in a serene driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was five times faster than its predecessor. It came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch option available on higher trims. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity for two devices. Additional features included a navigation system, WiFi hotspot, Alexa Built-In, and a wireless charging pad. The voice recognition system was fast and accurate, though it had some limitations in providing directions.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid powertrain required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without the need for charging infrastructure. The Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The Venza LE featured an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, while the XLE and Limited trims added a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and navigation. The Limited trim also included a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services provided additional safety and convenience features.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring available from the Trailhawk grade. Highway Assist was expected to be added later, pairing adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. However, the lane-keep assist was overly insistent at lower speeds, and the forward-collision warning system occasionally gave false positives. At the time of review, crash test results were not available, but the previous rollover resistance rating was three stars.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional features on higher trims. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.