Jeep Compass
Purchase price from £0
Expert rating
7 reviews
Expert opinions about this car
Expert reviews
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Kelley Blue Book
KBB rates the Compass 3.7/5, praising its off-road capability in Trailhawk form and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The base model is well-equipped and front seats are comfortable, but acceleration is sluggish due to the CVT, rear seat is tight for adults, and ride is firm. On-road refinement trails rivals like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4. Best for buyers prioritizing off-road prowess over on-road comfort.
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Automobile Magazine
Automobile Magazine highlights the Compass's split personality. Its rugged styling and interior design are praised, and the Trailhawk is a true off-roader. But on-road, the ride is busy and steering lacks feedback, fuel economy is poor at 22-24 mpg, and cargo space is small. It's a 'love it or hate it' vehicle for Jeep enthusiasts and off-roaders, sacrificing refinement and efficiency. They recommend cross-shopping with the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Forester.
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MotorTrend
MotorTrend's review of the Jeep Compass focuses on its identity crisis in a crowded compact SUV segment. The Compass offers Jeep's iconic rugged styling and a legitimate Trailhawk variant with real off-road capability, which is its primary differentiator. On pavement, however, MotorTrend notes the Compass struggles with a somewhat unrefined powertrain. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces adequate but not thrilling acceleration, and the transmission — particularly the older nine-speed auto — exhibits hesitant shifts and occasionally jerky behavior. The interior is competitive with higher-trim materials, but base models feel dated with hard plastics. Ride quality is generally acceptable, though road noise is noticeable at highway speeds. Fuel economy is below class leaders like the Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V. MotorTrend ultimately recommends the Compass primarily for buyers who prioritize off-road capability in a budget-friendly package, noting the Trailhawk's low-range gearing is genuinely impressive for its price point. Standard safety features are generous, and the Uconnect infotainment system remains a high point, but the overall experience trails key rivals in refinement, efficiency, and driving dynamics.
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Car and Driver
Car and Driver's review characterizes the Jeep Compass as a competent but unremarkable entry in the compact SUV class. The editors praise the Trailhawk's off-road chops, which deliver real capability with its increased ground clearance and four-wheel-drive system — a rarity in this segment. However, on the road, the Compass falls short. The turbocharged engine offers decent mid-range torque but feels lethargic off the line, and the transmission's programming hampers responsiveness. C/D tested the Compass returning fuel economy figures that trail rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester by significant margins. The interior is a mixed bag: the dashboard design is attractive, and the Uconnect 5 system is user-friendly, but rear-seat space is tight for adults, and cargo capacity is below average. Ride comfort is acceptable on smooth surfaces but becomes unsettled on rough pavement. The monthly Car and Driver verdict: the Compass is a reasonable choice for off-road enthusiasts on a budget, but for most buyers, alternatives from Mazda, Honda, and Hyundai offer better all-around value, more space, and superior efficiency.
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Edmunds
Edmunds' long-term assessment of the Jeep Compass highlights its polarizing nature. Pros cited include the available off-road hardware, especially on Trailhawk trims, which Edmunds tested and found genuinely capable on moderate trails. The Compass also earns points for a straightforward infotainment setup and a roomy front row. Cons are more numerous: Edmunds found the base 2.4-liter engine — still standard on many trims — to be noisy and underwhelming, with a nine-speed automatic that hesitates during city driving. The cabin's base materials are below the class standard, and rear occupant space is cramped compared to the competition. Edmunds' testers also noted that the Compass's ride is busy at highway speeds, with wind and tire noise intruding. The 2024 model refreshed the interior with better tech, but mechanical issues persisted. Edmunds' consumer rating averages around 3.0, with reliability concerns — particularly around electrical gremlins and the transmission — recurring in owner feedback. Edmunds suggests buying only if the off-road capability is a real need; otherwise, competitors offer more polish for similar money.
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Autoblog
Autoblog's review calls the Jeep Compass a "compromise vehicle" that prioritizes style and brand heritage over segment-leading dynamics. The reviewer notes that the Compass looks great — the iconic seven-slot grille and boxy proportions give it genuine on-road presence that many crossovers lack. The interior, especially on Limited and Trailhawk trims, looks and feels more premium than its price suggests. But Autoblog's driving impressions are lukewarm: the engine is coarse under load, the transmission is unresponsive, and the steering is vague with noticeable body roll. The ride is acceptable but not comfortable, especially for rear passengers. Off-road, the Trailhawk is the standout — Autoblog acknowledged it's one of the few genuinely trail-capable compact crossovers under $35,000. However, for street duty, the Compass is outdone by the Hyundai Tucson Kia Sportage, which offers more space, better fuel economy, and a much better warranty. Autoblog's summary: a stylish niche pick for Jeep loyalists, but mainstream shoppers have better options.
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U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report ranks the Jeep Compass in the lower half of its compact SUV class. Their review notes the Compass's strengths: a robust off-road Trailhawk variant, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a distinctive, rugged aesthetic. However, the publication flags several weaknesses that keep it from recommended status. Acceleration is sluggish, and the transmission is prone to hesitation. Fuel economy is disappointing — around 22 mpg combined in real-world testing — which is well behind class leaders. The first two rows are comfortable, but the third row? There isn't one; instead, the Compass loses to rivals on cargo room, with just 27 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Reliability scores from J.D. Power are below the segment average, and U.S. News cites multiple owner complaints about electrical issues and transmission problems. The annual score of 3.1 out of 5 reflects an average vehicle as a daily driver. U.S. News concludes: the Compass is a fine choice if you need light off-roading or love the Jeep brand, but it's not a smart buy for families needing space, efficiency, and dependability.
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