2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale aesthetic compared to its rugged predecessors. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families, featuring a sophisticated exterior with new 17-inch wheels for the Sport and North models, and gloss black wheels for the Trailhawk. The interior of the Compass Limited trim, with its Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, exuded a sense of luxury akin to a scaled-down Grand Cherokee. The two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents, digital displays, and metallic trim contributed to a high-end feel, although the price point was considered steep for its segment.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged counterpart to the CX-5, with a design that emphasized broad-shouldered proportions and square wheel arches. The Meridian Edition, in particular, enhanced the active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior featured an earthy colour palette with Terracotta leather upholstery and a pleasing design. While the infotainment screen was reminiscent of a BMW, the material quality was impressive for a non-luxury brand. However, Mazda's aspiration to move upscale was still a work in progress, as evidenced by the standard half-leatherette seats and manually adjustable passenger seat in base models.

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 system, the Compass offered improved performance. The Trailhawk version featured a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system with a 20:1 crawl ratio and additional off-road capabilities. Despite the improvements, the engine was tuned for fuel economy, resulting in a combined fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km. The Compass's handling was enhanced, but it remained tall and narrow, affecting its stability on uneven surfaces.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbo version delivered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard, with Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. The CX-50's handling was more subdued compared to the CX-5, and the Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip. The CX-50 was a competent daily driver, but it lacked the engaging driving dynamics of its sibling.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior with seating for adults in both rows. 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 Compass provided 770 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,693 litres with the seats folded. A foot-activated power liftgate was available for easy access.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 had similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly more legroom but less headroom. It offered 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded. The cargo area was less accommodating for bulky items, and the optional roof platform was high. The interior featured a sensible layout with adequate storage, but the Meridian Edition lacked durable materials for its rugged image.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered over-the-air updates, a digital instrumentation panel, and an optional Alpine sound system. The Limited trim included Alexa Built-in and a parking assist system, although the surround-view camera was more useful.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 had a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with higher trims offering wireless charging and a Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment, but the rotary controller provided tactile feedback. The system felt dated, but it was straightforward for those who preferred simplicity.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added drowsy driver detection and rear-seat reminder systems. Standard ADAS included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Compass had incomplete crash-test ratings, but it previously qualified for a Top Safety Pick rating.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It offered standard driver-assist tech, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included a 360-degree camera system.