2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Toyota RAV4

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, offering a sophisticated look with its Granite Crystal paint and multi-spoke 19-inch wheels. Inside, the two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents provided a sense of luxury, enhanced by digital displays and metallic trim. However, the high price point of the Compass, especially in the Limited trim with additional features, made it a costly option in the small SUV segment.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed for a tougher appearance, with aggressive angularity and dual exhaust outlets suggesting performance. The TRD Off-Road trim, although discontinued in Canada, emphasized off-road capabilities with robust roof racks and skid plates. The interior focused on practicality, with utility-style features like oversized rubberized control knobs and easy-clean surfaces. While the RAV4's cabin was utilitarian, it offered comfort with SofTex artificial leather upholstery and heated seats, making it suitable for various weather conditions.

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 Jeep Active Drive AWD system, transformed the Compass's performance, making it more responsive and enjoyable to drive. The Trailhawk version offered enhanced off-road capabilities with a low range and a 20:1 crawl ratio, although it struggled in some conditions due to tire limitations. The Compass's fuel economy was rated at 8.8 L/100 km in combined driving, with real-world testing showing slightly higher consumption.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While powerful for its class, the engine required high revs to access its full potential, resulting in a loud and unrefined sound. The RAV4's AWD system and eight-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery, and the Multi-Terrain Select system offered various driving modes. The RAV4's fuel economy was rated at 8.5 L/100 km, with the test vehicle averaging 10.6 L/100 km during evaluation. The RAV4 Hybrid offered better fuel efficiency, making it a more economical choice for those concerned about gas prices.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a comfortable interior with seating for four adults, although its narrow design limited space. Standard features included an air filtration system and dual-zone climate control, with higher trims offering leather seats and additional comfort options. The Compass provided 770 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,693 litres with the rear seats folded. However, interior storage was limited, and some hard plastic surfaces detracted from the overall luxury feel.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized practicality, with numerous storage options and durable materials. The interior accommodated four adults comfortably, with heated seats and a heated steering wheel enhancing comfort in colder climates. The RAV4 offered a spacious cargo area with 1,059 litres of space, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded. The power liftgate and rear air conditioning vents added convenience, making the RAV4 a versatile choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and over-the-air updates. The system could be paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The Limited trim included advanced features like Alexa Built-in and a parking assist system, although the surround-view camera was more useful for parking.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's infotainment system included an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered various connected services, including Service Connect and Safety Connect, with some features requiring a subscription. The digital voice assistant performed well, although some issues with volume and navigation were noted. The RAV4's standard audio system was adequate, with a JBL premium audio system available as an upgrade.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder for 2023, with standard ADAS features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, the lane-keeping system was sometimes intrusive, and the adaptive cruise control lacked smoothness. The Compass's crash-test ratings were incomplete, with the IIHS withholding a Top Safety Pick rating pending further testing.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of ADAS features. While the system performed adequately, the lane-centring assist was less effective on curvy roads, and the adaptive cruise control was overly cautious. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to updated testing criteria, with lower ratings in some crash tests highlighting the need for a redesign.