2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed with a focus on maintaining familiarity for those transitioning from internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. It closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, sharing the same basic shape and structure, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 Recharge was a visually appealing vehicle, featuring distinctive elements such as Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 offered a spacious and airy cabin, characterized by harmonious design elements and a premium feel, reflecting Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Compass retained much of its previous design, resembling a smaller Grand Cherokee. The exterior updates included new wheel designs, with the test vehicle featuring 19-inch multi-spoke wheels that added an upscale touch. Inside, the Compass Trailhawk Elite trim offered a more convincing premium SUV experience with a redesigned dashboard, digital instrumentation, and luxury-grade leather seats. The cabin improvements, including added sound deadening and soft-touch surfaces, elevated the Compass's sophistication, making it a more appealing choice for those seeking a premium feel.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two electric motors for all-wheel drive. It delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing its efficiency and driving experience. With a lower centre of gravity due to the battery placement, the XC40 Recharge offered excellent handling and stability. It had a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities. The gasoline XC40 models, T4 and T5, offered 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively, with fuel efficiency ratings of 9.3 and 9.4 L/100 km combined.

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, and its performance was further hindered by a transmission that was reluctant to downshift. The Compass offered a nine-speed automatic transmission for 4WD models, while FWD models had a six-speed automatic. The Compass Trailhawk Elite had a fuel consumption rating of 9.5 L/100 km combined, though testing showed an average of 9.9 L/100 km. The Compass excelled in off-road capabilities, especially in the Trailhawk trim, with features like Jeep Selec-Terrain and Active Drive Low AWD system.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, providing additional storage space. Inside, the XC40 featured ample cubbies and nooks, USB power ports, and comfortable seating for front passengers. The rear seats were suitable for two passengers, with limited space for a third. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior for four adults and their luggage, with the Trailhawk Elite trim enhancing its premium feel. The front seats provided 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, while the rear seats were also heated. The Compass featured a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and a redesigned dashboard with a new Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The cargo area offered 770 litres of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,693 litres with the seats folded, surpassing the more expensive Cherokee model.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a range of advanced technologies, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend its range. The infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It offered Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, along with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. The system supported over-the-air updates, though the range reporting method, showing percentage rather than distance, could cause range anxiety.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than its predecessor. It offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen as standard, with a 10.1-inch option available. 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 generally accurate, though it struggled with specific requests like finding the nearest hospital.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were not yet available. It came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge also featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo's Connected Safety system for sharing road condition data with other connected vehicles.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features for 2022, with key features available from the Trailhawk grade. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Compass was set to receive Highway Assist later in the model year, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. While the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems generally worked well, there were some issues with false positives and harsh braking. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available, though the previous rollover resistance rating was three stars.