2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Jeep Compass

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was available in four trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE at just over $35,000 to the RAV4 Limited, which exceeded $45,000. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a distinctive two-part face. The Trail trim, tested in the U.S., showcased a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional rugged styling elements, although it was more about appearance than off-road capability. Inside, the Trail trim added orange accents and contrast stitching, while the Limited trim offered a more premium feel with features like a frameless rearview mirror and heated, ventilated seats.

The 2024 Jeep Compass, tested in Michigan, presented a more utilitarian appearance, especially in the base Sport trim, which lacked distinctive Jeep features. The Compass Sport was described as generic, with design elements similar to other small crossovers. However, the interior of the Compass, particularly in the Limited trim, impressed with its design and quality, featuring a black and gray colour scheme with caramel leatherette accents. The base Compass offered supportive cloth seats and a well-designed cabin with a large infotainment screen and appropriate materials. Despite its interior strengths, the exterior design was considered less unique for a Jeep.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with all-wheel drive across all trims, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which, while preferable to a CVT, did not enhance acceleration. The RAV4's performance was described as unobjectionable, with some noise from the engine. The Trail trim featured 19-inch wheels and a suspension setup similar to other RAV4 models.

The 2024 Jeep Compass replaced its previous 2.4-litre engine with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four, delivering 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, provided improved performance and reduced engine noise. The Compass offered three driving modes and a rear-axle disconnect for fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk trim added off-road capabilities with a low-range transfer case and additional driving modes. However, steering and handling were noted as weak points, with a comfortable ride but less precise control. Fuel economy was estimated at 9.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.8 combined.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered seating for five, with front-row headroom of 958 mm and rear headroom of 1,001 mm. Legroom measured 1,039 mm in the front and 960 mm in the rear. The RAV4 provided ample storage options, including a shelf along the glove compartment and generous door pockets. Cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded.

The 2024 Jeep Compass excelled in utility and ease of use, with clear analog gauges and a large colour display. The interior offered ample legroom and headroom, with rear vents, USB ports, and a fold-down centre armrest. Cargo space was competitive, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres when folded. The front passenger seat also folded for carrying longer items.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, upgraded to a 10.5-inch screen in the Limited trim. The system supported over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display.

The 2024 Jeep Compass came standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen featuring Uconnect 5 software, offering clear and simple navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with optional factory navigation. A 10.3-inch digital instrument panel was standard on higher trims, and the Limited trim offered additional features like a power liftgate and ventilated seats.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 included standard safety features such as lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It was equipped with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems and received a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

The 2024 Jeep Compass had not been rated by the NHTSA at the time of writing, but the 2023 model received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard on most trims.