2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 presented itself as a stylish, downsized version of the CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth fenders. Built on the Mazda3 platform, it resembled a raised hatchback. Its raked windshield, while adding to the aesthetic, acted like a greenhouse on sunny days and distorted the road view for taller drivers. Inside, the cabin was quiet and comfortable, with a solid feel to all components. The interior design was a blend of conventional and digital displays, though the infotainment system had a steep learning curve.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass adopted a refined, upscale look, moving away from rugged Jeep designs. It shared design elements with larger Jeep models like the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The Compass featured new wheel designs for various trims, enhancing its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the Limited trim offered a two-tone cabin with digital displays and metallic trim, giving it a luxury feel. However, the high price tag made it less appealing compared to other options in the segment.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of engines, starting with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder producing 155 horsepower. The GS and GT trims featured a 2.5-litre engine with 186 horsepower, while the turbocharged version delivered up to 250 horsepower on premium fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provided a sporty, refined ride, though it was rough over potholes. The steering was precise, and the Sport mode enhanced throttle response.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep Active Drive AWD, it offered improved performance. The Trailhawk trim featured additional off-road capabilities, including a low-range AWD system and increased ground clearance. Despite these improvements, the Compass's engine was tuned for fuel economy, resulting in less power than expected. The ride was comfortable, but the AWD system was slow to engage.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The front seats had a sliding centre console cover, which could get stuck when the rear seats were down. Rear-seat headroom was adequate for short trips, but longer journeys might be uncomfortable for taller passengers.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior for four adults, despite its narrow design. It featured an air filtration system and dual-zone climate control. Higher trims included leather seats and power-adjustable options. The Compass provided 770 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,693 litres with the rear seats folded. Some models had a foot-activated power liftgate for convenience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was elegant but lacked touch functionality, relying on a rotary dial. This setup was inspired by older luxury systems and was challenging to use, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included over-the-air updates and optional features like a digital assistant and premium sound system. The Limited trim had a parking assist system and a surround-view camera, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered various driver-assistance features, though many were not standard in Canada. It received top safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick+.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added new safety features, including drowsy driver detection. Standard systems included forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control was not smooth. The Compass had not yet received full safety ratings for 2023, but previous models had a Top Safety Pick rating.