2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale appearance compared to its rugged predecessors. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families, featuring 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 Compass was available in seven trim levels, with the Trailhawk trims being ideal for off-road adventures. The base prices 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 packages, had an MSRP of $54,775. It boasted a Granite Crystal paint finish, multi-spoke 19-inch wheels, and a two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents, exuding a sense of luxury. However, the high price tag made it less appealing compared to similarly priced luxury SUVs.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, offered a distinct luxury SUV experience. It featured upscale styling with 22-inch silver-finished wheels on the TX 350 Executive packages, enhancing its presence. The TX's design was more conservative than other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down aesthetic. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, prices ranged from $72,036 to $87,486, with the TX 550h+ expected to start over $90,000. Our test focused on the TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The Ultra Luxury package added premium interior features, but the dark Peppercorn interior felt too sombre. Despite this, the TX 350's interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

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 robust 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, achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km. The Compass handled well on pavement, but its tall and narrow design led to significant body motions on uneven surfaces. Off-road, the Trailhawk excelled, though it struggled in some conditions due to its standard tires.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy rating of 10.3 L/100 km. During testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km, partly due to its U.S. specification with front-wheel drive. The TX 350 offered a balanced ride and handling, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt too soft. Overall, the TX 350 provided a satisfactory driving experience for a luxury SUV.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior for adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. 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 Limited trim provided a luxurious feel, though the centre console's hard plastic edge was uncomfortable. The rear seat offered decent space, and the cargo area provided 770 litres of volume, expandable to 1,693 litres with the rear seats folded. The Compass also featured a foot-activated power liftgate and a foldable front passenger seat for added utility.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. Our TX 350 test unit featured premium leather and suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated seats. The second-row bench seat was comfortable, though lacking a massage function. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, offering better space than previous models. The TX provided ample storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,625 litres with the third row folded, and 2,746 litres with the second row down. This made the TX a practical choice for road trips.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and OTA updates. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The Alexa Built-in digital assistant was responsive, and the parking assist system was useful, though the Compass's small size made it less necessary.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional features in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. Drive Connect added cloud-based navigation and other features, though it required a subscription. The TX also offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added standard drowsy driver detection and rear-seat reminder systems. Advanced driving assistance systems included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were available on higher trims. The Compass had incomplete crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the latter's requirements preventing a Top Safety Pick rating.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds. Overall, LSS+ 3.0 was effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.