Review
After a redesign last year that ushered in some much-needed quality-of-life updates inside and out, the Jeep Compass is back at it for 2023 with a new transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Jeep puts a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-liter engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission in every Compass. The available Trailhawk trim points the needle in the backwoods with off-road equipment and features like a lower gear, but the extra gear doesn’t turn it into a Wrangler. As a smaller alternative to the Cherokee, the Compass puts affordability ahead of overall space.
What’s new in 2023?
The Compass will get a new powertrain in 2023 with a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-liter engine. is a less powerful version of the engine that can be found in the the new Dodge Hornet. It provides a welcome increase in power over the previous 2.4-liter engine, which produced either 177 or 180 horsepower depending on spec. The Compass will no longer be offered with front-wheel drive, as all-wheel drive has become standard equipment.
Pricing and which one to buy
We’d maximize the Compass’ value by sticking with the base Sport model. Along with the Cold Weather package (heated front seats and steering wheel, remote start, and more), we’d opt for two optional packages: Advance Safety along with Safety and Security. The latter brings blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams, among other features.
Engine, transmission and performance
Every Compass is powered by a new 200-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that also makes 221 lb-ft of torque. It’s bolted to an eight-speed transmission, and all-wheel drive is now standard on all Compass models. Trailhawk models add a low “track” gear ratio. and Rock mode, which keeps the Compass in first gear and directs torque only to wheels that can find grip. The Compass feels more nimble than its tall, boxy profile might suggest, it responds adeptly to inputs and the steering is well weighted. There’s a bit of lean when cornering, but overall the Compass feels well-handled, solidly planted and capable on the road. The off-road course we ventured on when we first drove the Compass showed that it can hold its own over at least moderate obstacles, and we didn’t notice a single stumble from the all-wheel-drive system.
Fuel economy and real mpg
The EPA has not yet released fuel economy estimates for the 2023 Compass, but we will update this information when that information becomes available. When we get a chance, we’ll take the Compass on our 75 mph highway fuel economy test route and update this story with the results. For more information on Compass fuel economy, visit EPA website.
Interior, comfort and cargo
The Compass cabin is comfortable, functional, and has enough space for four adult passengers. The back seat is neither the biggest nor the smallest of the crossovers in this diverse class. The high lower parts of the rear seat provide full support for the passengers’ legs, and even long journeys can be comfortable. Despite its boxy exterior and what appears to be a competitive edge at first glance, the Compass isn’t the roomiest of its bunch. It has enough luggage space for a run to the airport, but long trips can be a squeeze. The rear seatbacks tilt up a bit when folded, and the last Compass we tested had just 17 carry-ons with the seats folded.
Infotainment system and communication
The standard touchscreen is 8.4 inches, and a larger 10.1-inch screen is also available. Along with natural voice recognition and navigation, the Compass offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless smartphone integration.
Safety features and driver assistance
Jeep offers an impressive selection driver assistance technology on the compass. For more information on Compass crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute of Road Safety (IIHS) websites. Key security features include:
- There is automated emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control is available
- Lane Keeping Assist is available
Warranty and maintenance
The Compass’s warranty comes close to covering that of several of its competitors, but Kia the unusually long transmission warranty easily beats Jeep’s transmission coverage. However, all models come with three years of free maintenance.
- The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- The transmission is warranted for five years or 60,000 miles
- Free maintenance is covered for three years
https://www.caranddriver.com/jeep/a27436054/compass/
