2023 Jeep Compass vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV segment. It was stylishly designed with high-quality materials, giving it the appearance and feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and it boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Although Mazda planned to transition to the CX-50, the CX-5 continued to offer quality, refinement, and sophistication across its six versions, ranging from the GX at $31,250 to the 2.5 Turbo Signature at $46,755.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass adopted a refined design ethos, aligning with the larger Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models. It featured new wheel designs for the Sport, North, and Trailhawk models. The Compass was available in seven trims in Canada, with prices ranging from just over $35,000 to more than $45,000. Our Limited test vehicle, priced at $54,775, showcased a sophisticated interior with Granite Crystal paint and multi-spoke 19-inch wheels, resembling a scaled-down Grand Cherokee. However, the high price made it less competitive compared to luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. It achieved a fuel economy rating of 9.0 L/100 km. The 2.5 Turbo variant delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, with a slightly higher consumption of 9.8 L/100 km. The turbo engine's enhancements, including increased structural rigidity and improved suspension, made the CX-5 feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle, offering a firm and connected ride.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system. The Compass achieved a fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km. The Trailhawk version featured additional off-road capabilities, including a low-range AWD system and increased ground clearance. While the new engine improved the driving experience, the Compass still exhibited significant body motions on uneven surfaces, and the AWD system was slow to engage.

The Mazda CX-5's interior updates included improved front seats and a range of comfort features, such as power-adjustable seats and Nappa leather upholstery in the Signature trim. However, the CX-5's technology and storage space were lacking, with a cramped rear seat and limited cargo capacity of 871 litres, expandable to 1,680 litres.

The Jeep Compass offered a spacious interior for adults in both rows, with standard air filtration and available dual-zone climate control. The Limited trim featured leather seats and a comfortable driving position. The Compass provided 770 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,693 litres, with an adjustable load floor and optional power liftgate. However, interior storage was limited, and the centre console's hard plastic edge was uncomfortable.

The Mazda CX-5's infotainment system, Mazda Connect, featured a 10.25-inch display but was criticized for its awkward controls and lack of voice recognition. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system in upper trims. The system's user experience was often frustrating, requiring significant attention away from the road.

The Jeep Compass came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen and Uconnect 5 technology, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa Built-in. The Limited trim included a digital instrumentation panel and a nine-speaker Alpine audio system. The infotainment system was praised for its responsiveness and ease of use, with features like parking assist and a surround-view camera.

The Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night.

The Jeep Compass added drowsy driver detection and rear-seat reminders for 2023. It included standard ADAS features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The Compass had not yet received NHTSA ratings, and its IIHS rating was pending further testing.