2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a striking and sporty design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design elements, such as the highback tail with a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and wheels pushed to the corners, contributed to its dynamic look. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The headlights, with their V-shaped pattern, and the sealed air intake-like trim on the bumper, emphasized its electric nature. The interior was equally impressive, featuring dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and ambient lighting, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Compass maintained a familiar design, akin to a smaller Grand Cherokee, despite receiving some exterior updates. The Trailhawk Elite specification elevated its premium SUV appeal with a new dashboard design, luxury-grade leather seats, and added sound deadening. The Compass lineup offered various trims, with the Trailhawk Elite being the most expensive. While the exterior updates were subtle, the interior enhancements significantly improved its sophistication, making it more convincing as a premium SUV.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered impressive performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the EV6 to accelerate to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, showcasing its agility and power. The upcoming GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The EV6's regenerative braking system offered extensive control, with more than eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, the cold weather affected its driving range, with the EV6 achieving only 65 percent of its estimated range in winter conditions. Charging capabilities were strong, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times were longer than Kia's claims.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque, lacked the performance punch of the EV6. The "Tigershark" engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, was often noisy and lacked the acceleration needed for a spirited drive. The transmission's reluctance to downshift and the slow re-engagement of the automatic stop/start system contributed to a less satisfying driving experience. The Compass's fuel efficiency was slightly below expectations, averaging 9.9 L/100 km in testing. However, its off-road capabilities, especially in the Trailhawk trim, were commendable, with features like the Active Drive Low AWD system and 21.9 cm of ground clearance.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered innovative features like pop-out door handles and a unique climate and stereo control system. Its interior provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned as a smaller compact SUV, provided ample space for four adults and their luggage. The Trailhawk Elite trim enhanced its premium feel with 12-way power-adjustable front seats, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and a redesigned dashboard. The Compass offered 770 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,693 litres with the seats folded, surpassing the more expensive Cherokee model. The new centre console provided increased storage, though the bin beneath the armrest remained small.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with features like a 360-degree surround-view camera, customizable "engine" sounds, and an augmented reality head-up display. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, requiring a wired connection. The highest trim included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking assist system.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than its predecessor. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offered a range of customization options. The system included a navigation system, connected services, and a WiFi hotspot. The voice recognition system was generally accurate, though it struggled with specific requests. Overall, Uconnect 5 was impressive but not the easiest to use.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came equipped with a range of safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims offered blind spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system. However, there were no published test results from safety organizations.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance available from the Trailhawk grade. The Compass was set to receive Highway Assist later in the model year, though it was not available during testing. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were mostly effective, but the forward-collision warning system occasionally gave false positives. Safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of review.