2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Jeep Compass

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale design, moving away from the rugged Jeep aesthetic. It shared design elements with larger Jeep models like the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, offering a sophisticated look with new 17-inch wheel designs for the Sport and North models, and gloss black wheels for the Trailhawk. In Canada, the 2023 Compass was available in seven trim levels, with the Trailhawk trims being ideal for off-road adventures. The base price ranged from just over $35,000 to more than $45,000, making it a pricey option in the small SUV segment. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim with additional features, had an MSRP of $54,775. The interior, with its two-tone black and gray cabin and caramel accents, exuded a sense of luxury, though the high price tag seemed excessive.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Compass, tested in Michigan, appeared less distinctive in its Sport trim, blending in with other small crossovers. The exterior lacked unique Jeep characteristics, except for the seven-slot grille. The interior, however, maintained a good design with supportive cloth seats and a 10-inch infotainment screen. The base trim offered a cohesive and modern interior, a significant improvement from older models. Despite the improvements, the exterior design remained generic, lacking the distinctiveness expected from a Jeep.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, transformed the Compass's performance, making it more responsive and enjoyable to drive. The turbo engine's peak torque was available from 1,750 to 4,250 rpm, with maximum horsepower at 5,000 rpm. The Trailhawk version featured a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system with a low range and a 20:1 crawl ratio, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The fuel economy was rated at 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, though our test averaged 9.9 L/100 km. Despite improvements, the Compass's tall and narrow design contributed to significant body motions on uneven surfaces.

The 2024 Jeep Compass continued with the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, offering the same 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. The engine, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD, provided smooth performance. The Compass featured three driving modes and a rear-axle disconnect for fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk model included a low-range transfer case and additional off-road features. However, steering and handling were weak points, with too much play and low grip. The fuel economy was estimated at 9.9 L/100 km in the city, 7.4 on the highway, and 8.8 combined, aligning with competitors.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior, accommodating adults in both rows. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone climate control. Higher trims provided leather seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The rear seat offered decent space, though legroom was snug. Cargo space was competitive, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres with the seats folded. A foot-activated power liftgate was available on some models.

The 2024 Jeep Compass emphasized utility and ease of use. The driver’s seat featured clear analog gauges and a large colour display. The interior offered ample legroom and headroom, with rear vents, USB ports, and a fold-down centre armrest. Cargo space remained competitive, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres when folded. The manual front passenger seat could fold, facilitating the transport of longer items.

The 2023 Jeep Compass came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring 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. Our test vehicle included these features, with the Alexa Built-in technology proving responsive. A parking assist system and surround-view camera were also available.

The 2024 Jeep Compass also featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 software, offering a clear and user-friendly interface. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional factory navigation and a wireless charging pad. A 10.3-inch digital instrument panel was standard on higher trims. The Limited trim offered additional features like Alexa Built-In and a power liftgate.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were available on higher trims. The IIHS had not completed testing, but the 2022 model received a Top Safety Pick rating.

The 2024 Jeep Compass had not been rated by the NHTSA, but the 2022 model received four out of five stars. The IIHS awarded the 2023 Compass a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard on all but the base trim.