2022 Jeep Compass vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Jeep Compass, despite receiving exterior styling updates and new wheel designs, retained much of its familiar look since its 2017 redesign. It resembled a smaller Grand Cherokee, with our test model featuring attractive 19-inch multi-spoke wheels in a dark sparkly finish that matched the paint, giving it an upscale appearance. Inside, the Compass impressed with its premium feel, especially in the Trailhawk Elite specification. The new dashboard design, updated digital instrumentation, and luxury-grade leather seats contributed to a sophisticated cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV segment. It offered a stylish design and high-quality materials, making it feel more like a luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the CX-5 boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Mazda's decision to transition to the CX-50 was more about marketing strategy than a reflection of the CX-5's performance or appeal. The CX-5 exuded quality and refinement across all its versions, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. Despite its "Tigershark" name, the engine lacked the power to compete with other SUVs. The nine-speed automatic transmission, paired with the 4WD system, aimed to maximize fuel efficiency but resulted in a busy and unrewarding powertrain character. The Compass averaged 9.9 L/100 km in combined driving, slightly above the expected 9.5 L/100 km. Its off-road capabilities were notable, especially in the Trailhawk trim, but the driving dynamics needed improvement.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbocharged variant delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates enhanced its driving dynamics, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. The turbo engine provided a satisfying driving experience, though it consumed more fuel than expected during testing. The CX-5 excelled on paved roads, offering a firm and communicative ride.

The 2022 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior for four adults and their luggage, with a cargo capacity of 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres with the seats folded. The Trailhawk Elite trim featured premium upgrades, including 12-way power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a redesigned dashboard with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The Compass's interior improvements elevated its perceived quality and sophistication.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while using top-notch materials, fell short in terms of technology and interior space. The CX-5's cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seat and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, less than some rivals. The infotainment system lacked a conversational voice recognition system, and the control knob was awkward to use. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-5's interior offered luxury touches, especially in the Signature trim with Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than its predecessor. It included an 8.4-inch or optional 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. The voice recognition system was generally accurate, though it had some limitations in specific scenarios.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, despite its appealing graphics and menu structure, was frustrating to use. The lack of a helpful voice recognition system and the awkward physical controls detracted from the user experience. However, it offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system in upper trims. The system's complexity made it less intuitive compared to competitors.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance available from the Trailhawk grade. However, some features required higher trims in Canada. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were functional but had some quirks. The Compass lacked updated crash test ratings at the time of review.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with most i-Activsense technologies standard. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim included additional features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, it needed a warning system for driving without headlights at night.