2024 Jeep Compass SUV

　　

2024 Jeep Compass Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　, rating written byDan FrioSenior Editor and Content Strategist, CarMax

　　Will Kaufman has worked in the automotive industry since 2017. He has written hundreds of car-related articles and reviews over the course of his career. Will is a senior editor and content strategist for CarMax at zzdcar. Will has been featured in the Associated Press and a number of major outlets on the topics of infotainment and vehicle data, vehicle subscription services and autonomous vehicles. Will started his career in online publishing by writing and editing standardized test guides, but he has a lot more fun writing about cars.

　　Filling a gap between Jeep's compact and subcompact SUVs, the 2024 Jeep Compass offers more cabin and cargo space than the smaller Renegade, without the footprint of the larger Cherokee. This Goldilocks approach could appeal to buyers with tight parking conditions or those who don't need a compact SUV's extra cargo capacity. The Trailhawk trim might also resonate with off-road enthusiasts looking to traverse trails impassable by larger four-wheelers. We don't expect significant changes for the 2024 Compass since it gained a more powerful engine and standard all-wheel drive last year.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Jeep Compass Sport 4dr SUV 4WD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$139/mo  for Compass Sport

　　Compass Sport

　　Sport 4dr SUV 4WD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $28,400 MSRPLatitude 4dr SUV 4WD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $32,670 MSRPLatitude Lux 4dr SUV 4WD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $34,395 MSRPLimited 4dr SUV 4WD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $36,245 MSRPTrailhawk 4dr SUV 4WD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $36,395 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　

zzdcar spotlight: Designed for dirt

The Compass found its niche as an early arrival to the ambiguous compact-tween, subcompact-plus class. But since its debut, more refined competitors have filled out the field. The Compass isn't particularly comfortable, quiet or fuel-efficient, and its interior layout is a bit baffling. Infotainment is a mixed bag. But the Compass' ace card is the Trailhawk trim. Its advanced all-wheel drive, raised suspension, all-terrain tires and underbody protection mean no other rival is as capable roaming far from pavement. For some buyers, the Compass' off-road strengths might compensate for its daily deficiencies.

　　

Competitors to consider

The Compass ranks pretty low on our list of top extra-small SUVs. That's because there are simply better choices for the money, including the Volkswagen Taos, Chevrolet Trailblazer and Mazda CX-30. All offer more comfort and better ergonomics, although the Jeep's 200-hp engine is stronger than most. The Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos are other alternatives, while the Subaru Crosstrek — more hatchback than SUV — has similar all-terrain ability. Read our Expert Rating to better understand how the Compass stacks up to the competition.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Please note that this rating is based on a prior year and may change slightly once complete information about the 2024 Compass becomes available.

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Below Average

　　6.6

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

6.5/10

　　How does the Compass drive? The Jeep Compass' standard engine is a step up for the class. Our test model accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, which makes the Compass quicker than most other extra-small SUVs. Unfortunately, that capable engine is connected to a transmission that's eager to upshift and lazy on downshifts, making the car feel less powerful in real-world driving than it actually is.

　　The Compass isn't at home on curvy roads either. There's a lot of body roll, so it seldom feels settled when you're driving around corners. The brakes can feel grabby during low-speed maneuvers, and our as-tested 60-0 mph stopping distance was longer than we'd expect from a vehicle that's not wearing off-road tires.

　　The good news is that the Compass is a good choice if you plan on off-roading: Opt for the Trailhawk trim and you get more trail-going capability than pretty much anything in the class other than the Subaru Crosstrek.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Compass? While the ride quality is surprisingly good, the Compass falls short when it comes to all-day comfort. The front seat cushions are soft but don't offer a lot of support, and the front head restraints are tilted too far forward. Especially for taller drivers, they can push your head forward uncomfortably. The ride is firm enough that you feel road imperfections, but the suspension soaks up larger bumps and takes the edge off potholes impressively well.

　　While the climate system regulates cabin temperature well, the fan can get very loud, especially in such a small vehicle. But that noise won't be lonely in the Compass: There's near constant engine noise, and on the freeway there's plenty of wind and road noise. You'll likely be turning the volume up on your podcasts.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below