2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Jeep Compass

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was a testament to rugged design, with its fourth-generation JL model showcasing a boxy, no-nonsense aesthetic. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. Its iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders maintained the classic Jeep look, while new colour options like "Reign" purple and "Earl" grey added a modern twist. Inside, the Wrangler prioritized practicality with easy-to-clean surfaces and a straightforward, utilitarian design, featuring a body-coloured dash and chunky controls.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Compass presented a more subdued exterior, with a design that blended into the crossover crowd, save for the signature seven-slot grille. The Compass Sport model, in particular, lacked distinctive features, while the Trailhawk version offered a more rugged appearance with red tow hooks and revised bumpers. Inside, the Compass impressed with its updated interior, featuring a black and grey colour scheme with caramel leatherette accents in higher trims. The cabin boasted supportive cloth seats, a large infotainment screen, and quality materials, making it a more cohesive and modern offering compared to older models.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was renowned for its off-road prowess, offering a range of engine options to suit different needs. The standard Pentastar V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder provided 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more torque, the 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 offered 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Rubicon 392 model, with its 6.4-litre V8 engine, boasted 470 horsepower and torque, enabling it to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid added an eco-friendly option with a 35-kilometre all-electric range. However, the 392's brakes and steering were noted as weak points, with the brakes not upgraded to match the V8's power.

The 2024 Jeep Compass, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the Compass offered improved performance over its predecessor. Three driving modes and a rear-axle disconnect enhanced traction and fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk model added a low-range transfer case and off-road features, but its higher price tag limited its appeal. While the Compass provided a comfortable ride, its steering and handling were less precise compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Equinox and Toyota RAV4.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available in higher trims or through a cold-weather package. Rear seating was tight, especially in the four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. The Wrangler's cargo space measured 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded, slightly less than the Ford Bronco. The Wrangler's various top options, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top, provided flexibility for open-air driving. Charging points were plentiful, with USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2024 Jeep Compass excelled in utility and ease of use, with clear analog gauges and a large colour display. The interior offered ample headroom and legroom, with rear vents, USB ports, and a fold-down centre armrest. While the central cubby and door pockets were small, cargo space was competitive, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres when folded. The front passenger seat's ability to fold flat added versatility for carrying longer items.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, while higher trims offered an 8.4-inch version. The system, though initially complex, was intuitive once familiarized, providing off-road information and connectivity options like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler's tech was practical, with a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches, but lacked advanced features like a digital key or over-the-air updates for vehicle performance.

The 2024 Jeep Compass came standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5 software, offering a slick and responsive interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with USB-C ports, were standard, while factory navigation and a wireless charging pad were optional. A 10.3-inch digital instrument panel was available on higher trims, and the Limited trim offered additional features like a power liftgate and ventilated seats.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control standard across all trims. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard only on higher trims or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims' headlights rated poorly.

The 2024 Jeep Compass, while not yet rated by the NHTSA, shared its predecessor's four-star rating. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in all crash tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor, with blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control available on all but the base trim.