2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2024 Jeep Compass

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including a gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more squared-off rear bumper design aimed at improving aerodynamics. New wheel designs and colours were introduced, and the rear VW logo was illuminated. Despite these changes, the ID.4 maintained a distinct EV appearance, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance that many buyers find appealing. This design choice was not unique to the ID.4, as other electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV also shared a similar aesthetic. Built on VW’s MEB platform, the ID.4 offered a modular design tailored for EVs, sharing its underpinnings with a range of models, including the upcoming ID.Buzz electric van. Inside, the ID.4 carried over the minimalist and quality-focused interior design from VW’s gasoline models, with leatherette upholstery and recycled fibre inserts standard across the lineup.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Compass, tested in Michigan, presented a more generic appearance, especially in its base Sport trim. The Compass Sport, with its black plastic door handles and small wheels, lacked distinctive Jeep features, save for the seven-slot grille. Its body shape and taillights were reminiscent of many small crossovers from the past two decades. However, the Trailhawk model offered a more rugged look with red tow hooks, revised bumpers, and a mild lift. The interior of the Compass, particularly in the Limited trim, showcased a refined design with a black and grey colour scheme and caramel leatherette accents. The base model featured supportive cloth seats with blue stitching and textured inserts, along with a 10-inch infotainment screen and practical silver plastic accents. Despite its generic exterior, the Compass offered a cohesive and modern interior design, a significant improvement over older models.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two battery options: a new 62-kWh pack for the base model with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model, available with either RWD or all-wheel drive (AWD). The single electric motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD variant increased output to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The smaller battery pack reduced curb weight by 109 kilograms, enhancing acceleration and handling. Despite its impressive acceleration, the ID.4's handling was less engaging, with noticeable body roll on twisty roads. Regenerative braking was present but did not support one-pedal driving, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2024 Jeep Compass replaced its previous 2.4-litre engine with a detuned version of the Cherokee's 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 AWD, the Compass provided smooth city driving and highway merging. It featured three driving modes and a rear-axle disconnect for fuel efficiency, though it reacted slowly under hard acceleration. The Trailhawk model included a low-range transfer case, all-terrain tires, and metal skid plates, enhancing off-road capability. However, steering and handling were weak points, with excessive play and low grip. Fuel economy was estimated at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.4 on the highway.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 excelled in interior space, offering more front and rear legroom than competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf, and more headroom than the Kia Niro EV. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing most entry-level EVs. While it fell short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V in interior space, it remained practical for an affordable EV. The ID.4 also offered towing capabilities, with a capacity of 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kilograms for AWD models. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage.

The 2024 Jeep Compass prioritized utility and ease of use, featuring 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, allowing for easy transport of longer items. However, the central cubby and door pockets were small, limiting storage options.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, featuring software updates for improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with the ID.Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system offered sharp graphics and natural-language voice recognition, though the haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel were less intuitive. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance, though it was easily overlooked during normal driving.

The 2024 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 software, offering clear and quick navigation through menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with optional factory navigation and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. A 10.3-inch digital instrument panel was standard on higher trims, with additional features like Alexa Built-In and a foot-activated power liftgate available on the Limited trim.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model received the IIHS’s highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating, with top scores in all crash tests and advanced ratings for collision prevention. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus, an automated lane-change feature, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Jeep Compass had not been rated by the NHTSA at the time of writing, but the 2022 model received four out of five stars overall. The 2023 Compass earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top ratings in all crash tests. 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 all but the base trim, with a 360-degree camera optional on higher trims.