Jeep Compass vs Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model featured striking 22-inch wheels in a silver finish, part of the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its visual appeal and presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, resulting in a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's aesthetics. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, including destination charges and dealer fees. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, offering options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages in Canada. The interior, while luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge, felt somewhat dark due to the Peppercorn interior and black-grained trim, despite the panoramic glass sunroof.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Compass was tested in Michigan, showcasing a practical yet unremarkable design. The Compass Sport, dressed in rental-car attire, was nearly invisible, with only the seven-slot grille identifying it as a Jeep. Its body shape and taillights were generic, resembling many small crossovers from the past two decades. The Compass Limited trim, however, offered a more refined interior with a black and grey colour scheme, caramel leatherette accents, and improved design and quality since the 2022 model year. The base Compass featured supportive cloth seats with blue stitching and textured inserts, along with a 10-inch infotainment screen and appropriate plastics for its price. While the exterior lacked uniqueness, the interior design and quality were commendable, though the steering and handling left room for improvement.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in approximately eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to the torque swell. The performance was adequate, with a fuel economy rating of 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, according to Natural Resources Canada. During testing, the TX 350 averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing road surface feedback while ensuring comfort. The steering was accurate, and the interior remained quiet on the highway. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2024 Jeep Compass featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the Compass offered ease in city driving and highway merging. It included three driving modes (auto, snow, sand/mud) and a rear-axle disconnect for fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk model added a low-range transfer case, rock driving mode, and all-terrain tires, enhancing off-road capability. The Compass had a maximum towing capacity of 907 kilograms. While the steering and handling were less precise compared to competitors, the ride was comfortable. Fuel economy was estimated at 9.9 L/100 km in the city, 7.4 on the highway, and 8.8 combined.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a more affordable and practical option compared to the GX, LX, and RX L models. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The second-row bench seat was standard, with captain's chairs available in the Executive 6-Passenger package. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, providing better comfort than previous models. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third-row seat, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded and 2,746 litres with the second-row seats down. The TX offered numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2024 Jeep Compass excelled in utility and ease of use. It featured clear analog gauges, a large colour display, and physical climate controls. Visibility and sight lines were good, with ample headroom and legroom in both front and rear seats. The rear seats included 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 could also fold, accommodating longer items.

The 2024 Lexus TX offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a head-up display in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also included free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with Remote Connect free for three years. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2024 Jeep Compass came standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen featuring Uconnect 5 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB-C ports. Factory navigation was optional, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. A 10.3-inch digital instrument panel was standard on the Altitude and Trailhawk Elite trims. The Limited trim offered the Elite Exterior Group, including features like 19-inch alloy wheels, Alexa Built-In, and a foot-activated power liftgate.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was part of the system, though it was not always transparent in operation. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

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. The IIHS awarded the 2023 Compass a Top Safety Pick. 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.