2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale appearance, moving away from the rugged design ethos traditionally associated with Jeep. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families, featuring 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, with its two-tone black and gray cabin and caramel accents, exuded a sense of luxury, though the high price was seen as overstepping.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 aimed to distinguish itself from a car with its excessive charcoal-coloured plastic cladding, which some found excessive. Despite this, the CX-30 was appealing with its short overhangs, long hood, sculpted flanks, and rakish roofline. The interior was a class above, offering style and refinement akin to an entry-level luxury SUV. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was integrated into the dashboard. In Canada, the CX-30 was available in four trims, with two engine options: a 191-hp 2.5-litre four-cylinder for the GX, GS, and GT trims, and a turbocharged engine for the Suna models, producing up to 250 hp. Prices ranged from $28,150 to $43,390, including destination charges. Our test vehicle, in Suna trim, featured a unique Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta and Black interior, which was polarizing but worked well on the SUV.

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, making it suitable for off-road adventures. Despite the improvements, the engine was not as powerful as it could be, prioritizing fuel economy and regular fuel requirements. The official fuel economy rating was 8.8 L/100 km, though our test averaged 9.9 L/100 km. The Compass was more enjoyable to drive than previous models, with better grip and quieter operation, though it still exhibited significant body motions on uneven surfaces.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, with its turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque (227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas). The power delivery was smooth, akin to riding a wave, making it feel like the sports car of its class. The six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard AWD system provided good traction. However, fuel economy was not its strong suit, with an observed 13.3 L/100 km on a mountainous route, and a small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range. The CX-30 was fun to drive, offering a nimble and connected ride, with excellent visibility despite limited glass area. It handled back roads with enthusiasm, and with its ground clearance and AWD, it could tackle more challenging trails than some competitors.

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 driver's seat, and heated front seats. The Limited trim provided a luxurious feel, though the hard plastic edge of the centre console was uncomfortable. The rear seat was spacious enough for adults, with generous foot room and supportive cushions. Cargo space was competitive, with 770 litres behind the back seat and 1,693 litres with the rear seat folded. Some models featured a foot-activated power liftgate and a foldable front passenger seat for carrying long items.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior was well-designed, with quality materials and logical controls. The three-gauge instrumentation was a favourite, and the traditional shifter was easy to use. The cabin featured gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, with Terracotta leather seats adding colour. The interior was cramped, especially in the back seat, but the front seats were comfortable and heated. Storage space was adequate, with 572 litres of cargo volume behind the back seat and 1,280 litres with the seat folded. The load floor could be adjusted for more flexibility, making it practical for its size.

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. Depending on the trim, it could include a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, navigation, a nine-speaker Alpine sound system, and Alexa Built-in. The Limited trim had all these features, with the Alexa technology proving responsive and accurate. The Alpine audio system was good but bass-heavy. A parking assist system and surround-view camera were also available.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's GT and Suna trims featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring. The screen was far from the driver, and the system relied on steering wheel, console, and voice controls. Mazda Connected Services offered a two-year subscription, and GT and Suna trims included USB-C ports, a wireless charger, and a Bose audio system.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder for 2023. Standard ADAS 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 lane-keeping system was sometimes intrusive, and adaptive cruise control was not smooth. The NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings, and the IIHS had incomplete results, with the Compass previously earning a Top Safety Pick.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, parking sensors, rear automatic braking, and a surround-view camera. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were effective, though the curve speed reduction was too aggressive. The CX-30 earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for rollover resistance, and was a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.