2023 Jeep Compass vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, with its redesigned models, was tested in Santa Barbara, California. The RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance hybrid versions were the focus, while the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid was not available for testing. Visually, the RX 350h was nearly indistinguishable from the standard RX 350, save for a badge on the liftgate. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its performance-tuned design, featuring a blacked-out grille, matte-black wheels, and aggressive styling. Despite its popularity, the RX's design was not considered particularly attractive, with a blunt nose and a visual imbalance due to its wheelbase stretch. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalistic approach with improved infotainment and contemporary detailing, offering a luxurious feel with options like Macadamia leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass embraced a refined design ethos, moving away from rugged styling. The Compass shared design elements with larger Jeep models, featuring new wheel designs for the Sport, North, and Trailhawk models. The Compass was available in seven trim levels in Canada, with prices ranging from over $35,000 to more than $45,000, excluding fees. The Limited trim test vehicle, priced at $54,775, featured Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, resembling a smaller Grand Cherokee. Inside, the two-tone cabin with caramel accents and digital displays offered a sophisticated feel, though the high price was a point of contention.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving 7.5 seconds to 100 km/h and averaging 7.4 L/100 km in fuel economy. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in about 6 seconds. It featured an adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering, enhancing its dynamic performance. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 11.3 L/100 km. The RX 350h was preferred for its balance of performance and efficiency, while the RX 500h offered a more engaging driving experience.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, producing 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. The engine's peak torque was available from 1,750 to 4,250 rpm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep Active Drive AWD. The Trailhawk model featured a more advanced AWD system with a low range and a 20:1 crawl ratio. The Compass's fuel economy was rated at 8.8 L/100 km, though real-world testing averaged 9.9 L/100 km. The new engine improved the Compass's performance, making it more enjoyable to drive, though it still faced challenges with body motions and AWD engagement.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a comfortable interior with ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and a three-zone climate control system. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way power seats with larger bolsters and standard heated and ventilated seats. The battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support but reduced headroom. Cargo space was increased to 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seat folded, matching the standard RX 350.

The 2023 Jeep Compass provided a roomy interior for four adults, with standard air filtration and available dual-zone climate control. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather available on higher trims. The Limited trim offered an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. Rear seat space was adequate, with generous foot room and supportive cushions. Cargo space was competitive, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres with the seat folded. Some models featured a foot-activated power liftgate and a foldable front passenger seat for carrying long items.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured a new infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connected services required a subscription after a trial period. The system included a cloud-based navigation system and an Intelligent Assistant. However, the interface had limitations, such as a single-screen view and reflection issues. The available head-up display had dual-function control pads, which were challenging to use with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Jeep Compass came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen and Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered over-the-air updates and optional features like a digital instrumentation panel, Alpine sound system, and Alexa Built-in assistant. The Limited trim had all these features, with the Alexa assistant performing well. The Alpine audio system was bass-heavy, and the parking assist system was deemed unnecessary for the Compass's size.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist was available, slowing the vehicle to maintain safe distances. The system had some irritations, such as the front cross-traffic alert's reliance on visual indicators and the curve-speed reduction's reactive nature. Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park were also available.

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. Blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were available on higher trims. The lane-keeping system was sometimes intrusive, and the adaptive cruise control lacked smoothness. Crash-test ratings were incomplete, with the Compass previously earning a Top Safety Pick rating.