Jeep Compass Mastery Guide

The Jeep Compass is a compact crossover SUV that has been manufactured by Jeep since 2007. It is currently in its second generation, which debuted in 2016. The Compass sits below the Jeep Cherokee in Jeep’s SUV lineup and competes with other small crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

Some key facts about the Jeep Compass:

First generation was produced from 2007 to 2016. Second generation launched in 2016.

Available as either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
For the 2023 model year, the Jeep Compass is powered by a new 2.0L turbocharged engine that produces 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine replaces the previous 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.
Seating for up to 5 passengers.

Cargo space behind rear seats is 27.2 cubic feet. Folds down to 59.8 cubic feet.
Standard features include push-button start, 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, power accessories.
Available safety features include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, automatic emergency braking.

The Compass combines Jeep’s renowned off-road capabilities and rugged styling in a more affordable, fuel-efficient package designed for everyday driving. It’s a good compact SUV choice for those looking for an outdoor adventure vehicle.

Generations of the Jeep Compass

There have been two generations of the Jeep Compass since it debuted. Here is an overview of both:

First Generation (2007-2016)

Introduced for 2007 model year.

Shared platform with Dodge Caliber hatchback.
Boxy exterior design with traditional Jeep cues.
Available in Sport, Latitude, Limited trims. Later added Altitude and High Altitude trims.

Offered both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.
Powered by a 2.0L or 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. 158-172 horsepower.
Interior featured standardcloth seats, with options for heated leather seats and UConnect infotainment.

Common issues included a noisy interior and unrefined transmission.

Second Generation (2017-present)

All-new redesign launched in 2016 for 2017 model year.
Much improved interior with higher quality materials.

Sleeker, more modern exterior styling.
Available Active Drive 4×4 system improves off-road performance.
Engine options include a 2.4L 4-cylinder or 1.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder. Up to 180 horsepower.

New safety tech like lane departure warning and auto high beams.
Added Trailhawk model in 2018 with increased ground clearance and other off-road upgrades.
More comfortable ride and much quieter interior than previous generation.

The redesign in 2016 significantly improved the Compass, making it more competitive in the compact crossover segment. It maintains its Jeep capabilities while offering better comfort and technology.

Trim Levels of the Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass is available in a number of different trim levels, each with increasing levels of features, technology, and options.

Here is an overview of the available trim levels:

Sport – The base Compass Sport trim comes decently equipped with features like air conditioning, keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, cloth seats, and a 5-inch touchscreen. It comes standard with front-wheel drive and the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.
Latitude – The Latitude adds nicer interior accents, upgraded cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless ignition, and more available optional equipment. It’s a good value step-up from the base Sport.
Latitude Lux – This combines the Latitude trim with a power liftgate, leather seats, automatic climate control, and 8.4-inch touchscreen. It provides more luxury features.

Limited – The top-trim Compass Limited comes loaded with leather upholstery, 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio system, navigation, dual zone climate control, and additional safety tech.
Altitude – The Altitude is an appearance package available on Sport and Latitude trims. It includes unique black accents and wheels.
Trailhawk – Introduced in 2018, the Trailhawk turns the Compass into a more rugged off-roader. It has increased ground clearance, redesigned bumpers, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and enhanced 4×4 capabilities.

There are also some special edition Compass models, like the Sterling Edition with chrome styling cues. Buyers have a good range of trim options to choose from based on features and budget.

Powertrain Options in the Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass offers two main engine choices across its trims:

2.4L 4-Cylinder

Most Compass models are equipped with a 2.4L “Tigershark” 4-cylinder engine making 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. It can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission (Sport only) or 6-speed automatic. This engine provides adequate acceleration but is somewhat underpowered for the Compass.

1.3L Turbo 4-Cylinder

Optional on higher trims is a 1.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. This turbo engine gives the Compass improved performance and drivability. It comes paired to a 6-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine upgrade is recommended for those who want more power.

Drivetrain

Front-wheel drive is standard across the Compass trims. Available on all trims except Sport is Jeep’s Active Drive 4×4 system. It improves traction in slippery conditions but is not intended for serious off-roading. The Trailhawk comes with Active Drive Low 4×4 for enhanced off-road performance.

While not the most powerful in its class, the Compass powertrain options balance performance and fuel economy. The turbo engine upgrade makes a meaningful difference in acceleration and torque.

Fuel Economy of the Jeep Compass

Here are the fuel economy ratings for the 2022 Jeep Compass according to the EPA:

2.4L 4-cylinder engine

Front-wheel drive – 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway/25 mpg combined
4×4 – 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway/24 mpg combined

1.3L Turbo 4-cylinder engine

Front-wheel drive – 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway/27 mpg combined
4×4 – 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined

These numbers are about average for a compact SUV of this size. The turbocharged engine offers a slight improvement over the base 2.4L engine. Opting for all-wheel drive reduces fuel economy by 1-2 mpg across the board.

In real world driving, Compass owners can expect around 25 mpg in combined driving with the 2.4L engine and FWD. With more highway driving that can increase to 30+ mpg. The turbo engine should deliver slightly better efficiency.

Selecting the most fuel efficient powertrain configuration means opting for the 1.3L turbo engine with front-wheel drive. Those worried about off-road ability or winter weather can still choose 4×4 at a small fuel economy cost. Overall, the Compass gets good gas mileage for a 4×4-capable compact SUV.

Interior Features and Options

The Jeep Compass interior leans rugged and functional, but higher trims offer plenty of amenities. Here are some of the key interior features:

Seating – Seats 5 passengers. Cloth seats standard, with optional leather depending on trim. Heated front seats available except on Sport.
Cargo Space – 27.2 cubic feet behind rear seats. Folds flat to open up 59.8 cubic feet of space. Good for segment.
Dashboard – Simple layout with easy to use controls. Top trims get larger touchscreens and more soft-touch materials.

Technology – Base includes 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and USB ports. Higher trims add larger touchscreens, navigation, premium audio, and connected services.
Comfort – Keyless entry and ignition standard. Available upgrades include dual-zone climate control, power driver’s seat, heated steering wheel, and remote start.
Safety Tech – Automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert available. Adaptive cruise control on Limited.

The Compass interior strikes a good balance between off-road utility and daily comfort and convenience. There are ample upgrades available that enhance luxury and technology as you move up the trims.

Exterior Styling and Design

The current second generation Jeep Compass has an exterior design that blends modern and aggressive styling cues:

Size – The Compass is 175 inches long, which is average for a compact SUV. It slots below the midsize Jeep Cherokee in size.

Shape – Sleek lines and rounded edges give it a contemporary look. Short front and rear overhangs enhance maneuverability.
Front End – Bold grille similar to Cherokee. Sweeping hood lines. Angular headlights and lower fascia give it a tough look.
Rear End – Roofline peaks towards the back and tapers down. Taillights connected by a thin strip across the tailgate. Dual exhaust tips.

Profile – Rising beltline and raked rear window. Distinctive wheel arches and side profile similar to Grand Cherokee. Roof rails on higher trims.
Off-Road Look – On Trailhawk, increased ride height, skid plates, and red tow hooks add ruggedness.
Wheels – 17-inch wheels standard. 18- and 19-inch wheel options on higher trims.

The Compass exterior styling strikes a nice balance between the boxy traditional Jeep look and a more refined, sculpted modern design. It maintains good off-road proportions.

Technology and Infotainment

The Jeep Compass offers useful technology and infotainment features:

Audio System – Base audio system is a 6-speaker system with AM/FM/MP3 playback. Can upgrade to a 9-speaker Alpine premium audio system on higher trims.

Uconnect Infotainment – Comes with either a 5-inch (Sport) or larger 8.4-inch (Latitude and up) touchscreen display. Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation is optional.
Connected Services – Available connected services through Jeep’s Uconnect system include remote commands, 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and vehicle health reports.
Smartphone Integration – Standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming. USB ports allow connection and charging of devices.

Driver Information Display – Configurable color display in instrument cluster provides key vehicle info and alerts.
Off-Road Tech – Trailhawk model includes systems like Selec-Terrain traction management, hill descent control, and an off-road focused gauge display.
Safety Technology – Available advanced driver aids include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and front collision warning with automatic braking.

The latest tech features and conveniences are available for those who want them. The user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system is a highlight.

Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results

The Jeep Compass performs well in government and industry crash testing, offering confidence in its safety:

Received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests.

Earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, their highest safety designation. It achieved top “Good” scores in all crashworthiness and front crash prevention evaluations.
Standard safety features include 7 airbags, stability control, hill start assist, and tire pressure monitoring system.
Available active safety tech includes blind spot monitoring, rear cross path detection, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These received top “Superior” ratings from the IIHS for front crash prevention.

Strong body structure uses high strength steel and crumple zones to direct energy away from the cabin in a crash.
LATCH child seat anchors and tether anchors make proper installation easy.

According to the testing, the Compass provides excellent occupant protection and crash avoidance capability with the available advanced safety features. Families can feel secure choosing this Jeep.

Towing Capacity, Payload, and Off-Road Performance

While not a hardcore off-roader, the Jeep Compass can handle some weekend adventures when properly equipped:

Towing – Properly equipped, the Compass can tow up to 2,000 lbs. This requires the trailer tow package.
Payload – Maximum payload capacity ranges from 900 to 1,100 lbs depending on configuration. This enables transporting gear.

Ground Clearance – Ground clearance is 8.5 inches on most models. Trailhawk has increased 9.3 inch clearance for off-roading.
Approach/Departure Angles – Approach angle of 20 degrees and departure angle of 24 degrees allows traversing obstacles. Trailhawk improves to 30 degree approach and 33 degree departure.
4×4 Systems – Available Active Drive 4×4 system provides added traction in slippery conditions. Trailhawk gets specialized Active Drive Low 4×4 gearing with 20:1 crawl ratio for rugged terrain.

Suspension – MacPherson struts up front and multi-link rear. Trailhawk includes 1 inch lift and heavy-duty suspension components.
Selec-Terrain – Trailhawk’s Selec-Terrain system lets you optimize traction settings like sand and snow. Also features hill descent control.

Equipped with the available 4×4 system and proper tires, the Compass can handle light to moderate off-road duty and get you to trailheads or campsites. The Trailhawk model is best for off-road enthusiasts.

Pricing and Value of Jeep Compass Trims

The Jeep Compass offers good value with a range of trims at different price points. Here is an overview of MSRP pricing for the 2022 model:

Sport – Starts at $24,995. Good basic Jeep at an affordable price but lacks many features.
Latitude – Starts at $26,795. Reasonable step up that adds more convenience features at a good price.

Latitude LUX – Starts at $29,695. Combines Latitude features with more upscale options at still a fair price.
Limited – Starts at $32,695. Top-end model with all the luxury amenities and tech but costs quite a bit more.
Trailhawk – Starts at $30,795. Off-road focused model carries about a $3,000 premium over a similar Longitude.

Prices above are MSRP and don’t include destination charges or options. Discounts or incentives can reduce real-world pricing.

Overall, the Compass provides strong value in the compact crossover segment. The Latitude is the sweet spot for many buyers looking for an affordable, well-equipped compact SUV. Higher trims offer more luxury and amenities for those willing to spend more.

Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Ratings

The Jeep Compass garners good reliability ratings from third-party data:

JD Power gives the Compass an above average predicted reliability rating of 4 out of 5. This indicates lower repair frequency compared to competitors.
RepairPal gives the Compass an above average reliability rating of 4 out of 5. This service rates it as less likely to require major repairs when compared to other compact SUVs.
Consumer Reports rates Compass reliability as a 3 out of 5. Owners report some minor transmission issues on earlier models.

High owner satisfaction is reported by both JD Power and Consumer Reports surveys. Most Compass owners enjoy their vehicle.
Recalls to date have covered minor issues like software updates and driveshaft inspection. No major recall trends have emerged.
Warranty coverage includes 3 years/36,000 miles basic and 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, which is about average for the segment.

While no vehicle is perfect, the Compass scores well in reliability for a compact SUV. Following regular maintenance and services schedules is recommended for maximum trouble-free operation.

Top Alternatives and Competitors

The Jeep Compass competes with other compact crossover SUVs. Key alternatives shoppers may want to consider include:

Honda CR-V – One of the most popular SUVs, praised for space, practicality, and reliability. More cargo room than Compass but less off-road ability. Starts around $26,000.

Toyota RAV4 – Another highly rated compact SUV offering a comfortable ride and solid Toyota reputation. Good tech and safety scores but less distinctive styling. Base models start around $27,000.
Subaru Forester – Excellent AWD capability and visibility make it very popular in colder climates. Roomy interior space but acceleration is just adequate. Pricing starts around $26,000.
Mazda CX-5 – Regarded as one of the most stylish and engaging compact SUVs to drive. Light off-road ability and lower cargo space. Starts around $25,000.

Hyundai Tucson – Fun to drive for a crossover with some unique styling cues inside and out. Warranty is a highlight but resale value lags. Base model pricing around $25,000.

These alternatives are top sellers that match up well to the Jeep Compass in terms of size, capability, and family appeal. Driving them all can help buyers find the best fit.

Final Thoughts on the Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass makes a strong case as an affordable compact SUV with authentic 4×4 capability. It can’t compete with larger Jeep models off-road but offers enough ruggedness for most weekend adventures. The recent redesign substantially improved the interior comfort, technology, safety ratings, and overall refinement.

Shoppers wanting more cargo and seating space may need to look at midsize models. But those seeking an easy to maneuver vehicle with Jeep styling and some trail chops will be well served by the versatile Compass. It’s value oriented while offering popular options like advanced driver aids. Overlanding enthusiasts should look at the Trailhawk 4×4 for maximum off-road performance.

In total, the Compass hits a sweet spot between budget-friendly pricing, daily drivability, and light off-road potential. For those who want traditional Jeep design cues and capabilities in a smaller, more efficient package, the Compass is a compelling choice in the competitive compact crossover segment. It’s easy to see why it has become a popular urban SUV for active singles and young families looking to add some adventure to their daily driving.

Jeep Compass Mastery Guide