Pros: Comfortable ride; roomy cabin within the compact exterior dimensions; off-road ability in Trailhawk trim
Cons: Powertrain isn’t quite as refined as some class competitors; thick rear roof pillars impede visibility; so-so fuel economy
CG Says: The Jeep Compass lineup gets a bit confusing for 2017—it consists of both carryover previous-generation models (which are being phased out) and an all-new redesigned version. This review covers the redesigned Compass; check out our 2016 Compass review for an evaluation of the previous-generation model. The new Compass replaces both the outgoing Compass and the Patriot in Jeep’s model lineup; it slots between the subcompact Renegade and compact Cherokee in size and price. Four trim levels are offered: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and off-road-oriented Trailhawk. The sole engine is a 180-horsepower 2.4-liter four cylinder. Front-wheel-drive Compasses have a 6-speed automatic transmission, while 4WD models have a 9-speed automatic. A six-speed manual is available with both front-wheel drive and 4WD. A two-speed transfer case with a low-ratio for off-road use is standard on Trailhawk. Available features include forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning and mitigation, blind-spot alert, rear cross-path detection, hill-descent control, and panoramic sunroof. In top-line Trailhawk trim, the new Compass boast off-road capabilities that can top most any class competitor (that isn’t another Jeep). The Compass’s drivetrain doesn’t quite measure up to some rivals in terms of power, fuel economy, and transmission refinement. However, competitive pricing, decent interior space for the size, a pleasing on-road driving personality, and up-to-date available features make the Compass a worthwhile contender.
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Jeep |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Sport: $20,995 4WD Sport: $22,495 Latitide: $24,295 4WD Latitude: $24,295 4WD Trailhawk: $28,595 4WD Limited: $28,995 |
| Base Engine 2.4-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 180 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic, 9-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-32 |
