2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Dodge Hornet

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale design, moving away from the rugged styling traditionally associated with Jeep. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer, offering a sophisticated look with new 17-inch wheels for the Sport and North models, and gloss black wheels for the Trailhawk. The Compass was available in seven trim levels in Canada, with the Trailhawk trims being ideal for off-road adventures. Despite its upscale appearance, the Compass was considered expensive for a small SUV, with prices ranging from over $35,000 to more than $45,000, excluding additional fees. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim with several optional packages, had a Canadian MSRP of $54,775. The interior, featuring Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, resembled a scaled-down Grand Cherokee, with a two-tone black and gray cabin accented by caramel highlights. However, the high price made it less competitive compared to small luxury SUVs.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet, while not a traditional V8 muscle car, retained Dodge's distinctive styling with a muscular front end and integrated heat extractors on the hood. The grille featured a new Rhombi logo, prominently displayed. The Hornet's tail lamp extended across the width of the crossover, with oversized tailpipes emphasizing its performance-oriented nature. Available in four trim levels in Canada, the Hornet offered both gas and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Our test vehicle, an R/T Plus with the Blacktop Package, shared visual similarities with the Alfa Romeo Tonale but maintained classic Dodge design elements. The interior, influenced by its Italian sibling, felt modern and sporty, with Alcantara upholstery and a driver-focused centre stack. While the steering wheel and seats had a sporty appearance, some components felt outdated. Overall, the Hornet's design emphasized performance and modernity.

The 2023 Jeep Compass finally addressed its long-standing powertrain issues with a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The engine's peak torque was available from 1,750 to 4,250 rpm, with maximum horsepower at 5,000 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep Active Drive AWD, the Compass offered improved performance. The Trailhawk version featured a more advanced AWD system with a low range and a 20:1 crawl ratio, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Despite the improvements, the engine prioritized fuel economy over power, resulting in a combined fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km. The Compass's handling was improved, but it remained tall and narrow, affecting stability on uneven surfaces. The Trailhawk excelled off-road but struggled with standard tires in challenging conditions.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet offered two powertrains: the GT with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and the R/T with a plug-in hybrid system producing 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The GT featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and mechanical AWD, while the R/T used a six-speed automatic and electric AWD. The R/T's PHEV system allowed for an all-electric range of approximately 53 kilometres. The Hornet's suspension balanced comfort and handling, with a heavy steering feel but precise control. The R/T's Sport mode and Powershot feature added excitement to the driving experience. Fuel economy for the R/T was rated at 3.1 L/100 km in hybrid mode, while the GT returned 11.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior with comfortable seating for adults in both rows. Despite its narrow design, it provided decent comfort for four passengers. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone climate control. Higher trims offered leather seats, power-adjustable front seats, and heated features. The rear seat provided adequate space, with generous foot room and supportive cushions. Interior storage was limited, but the Compass offered competitive cargo space, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres with the seats folded. Some models featured a foot-activated power liftgate for convenience.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet prioritized front passenger comfort, with good headroom and visibility. However, the rear seat felt cramped due to the high beltline and dark interior. The R/T's PHEV battery reduced cargo capacity, offering 648 litres behind the rear seat and 1,430 litres with the seats folded. The GT trims provided slightly more space. Despite the limitations, the Hornet's interior design emphasized a sporty and modern feel.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered over-the-air updates and optional features like a digital instrumentation panel, navigation, and a premium sound system. The Alexa Built-in assistant provided voice control, while the parking assist system and surround-view camera enhanced convenience.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet boasted a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with UConnect 5. The system was user-friendly and customizable, with wireless smartphone connectivity and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. The Hornet's tech features emphasized personalization and ease of use.

The 2023 Jeep Compass included standard safety features like drowsy driver detection, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, the lane-keeping system was sometimes intrusive, and adaptive cruise control lacked smoothness. The Compass had incomplete safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional level 2 autonomous driving functions were available with the Tech Pack. The Hornet had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.