Overview
The all-new 2022 Jeep Compass is a rugged and stylish compact crossover that can go off-road. It sits between the smaller Renegade and the bigger Cherokee in Jeep's lineup and competes against rivals like the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4. We used to think its interior was pretty dull, but it's been refreshed with some new features and looks much nicer now.
The 2022 Compass' four-cylinder gas engine has been a source of complaints, but a new plug-in hybrid powertrain would give the lineup an edge in this area. Jeep's brand is based on off-road capability, and the Trailhawk trim is best equipped for that purpose. The Cherokee may have more capability overall, but the Compass is less expensive and arguably better looking.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Every Compass comes equipped with a sluggish four-cylinder engine, and the optional nine-speed automatic transmission is slow to execute shifts. All front-wheel models are Instead, all-wheel drive will enjoy a variety of terrains Drive modes include an automatic setting which allows the car to direct torque to wheels as needed; while Snow, Sand,and Mud modes allow for varying amounts of wheelslip.
The Trailhawk models come with a low "crawler" gear ratio and Rock mode, which helps the Compass stay in first gear while directing torque to only the wheels that can maintain grip. Even though it has a tall, boxy profile, the Compass is agile and responds well to inputs from its nicely weighted steering wheel. There is some lean during tight cornering, but overall the Compass feels well-controlled, solidly planted, and capable on different roads.
The off-road course we took the Compass on revealed that it performed well over moderate obstacles, and we didn't notice any issues with the all-wheel-drive system. The potential 4xe plug-in hybrid will offer a more eco-friendly alternative to the regular gas-powered variants. However, we haven't driven or tested that version yet.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Although the Compass competes with vehicles that have a smaller size and front-wheel drive, it is still quite efficient. In fact, this vehicle has an estimated 22 mpg for city driving and 31 mpg for highway driving.
If a plug-in-hybrid variant joins the lineup, it likely will not just get great gas mileage as compared to other models, but should also provide a short all-electric driving range. The previous model we tested on our highway fuel-economy route (traveling at 75 mph), which is part of our comprehensive testing process, resulted in 29 mpg. To learn more about the potential fuel economy for the Compass visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2022 Compass is a marked improvement over the previous model year, which was plagued by nondescript styling and unremarkable interior materials. Plus, its interior is comfortable, functional, and has enough space for four adult passengers.
The back seat in the Compass is average-sized for crossovers in its class. Its high seat bottoms mean that passengers' legs are fully supported, making even long rides comfortable. Although it has a boxy exterior and what appears to be competitive cargo volume, the Compass is not as roomy as some of its competitors. It has enough luggage space for an airport run but might be cramped on longer trips. The rear seatbacks angle slightly upward when folded, and the last Compass we tested held only 17 carry-on suitcases with the seats stowed.
Is Jeep Compass a reliable car?
Is the Jeep Compass Reliable? The 2022 Jeep Compass has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Do Jeep Compasses last long?
The Jeep Compass was first introduced to the market in 2007, so most estimates regarding its longevity might not be as accurate. But given that many Jeeps can last more than 10 years and 200,000 miles, you can expect that with regular maintenance, the Jeep Compass can last you for a long time.
What is special about Jeep Compass?
The Jeep Compass is special because it is the perfect blend of on-road drivability with the off-road capabilities everyone associates with the Jeep brand.