Jeep Compass (2011-2015) critique

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【Summary】The Jeep Compass is a smaller car that aims to rival the Nissan Qashqai, but falls short in terms of quality and performance. It has a lot of body roll, vague steering, and an uncomfortable ride. The engine choices include petrol and diesel options, with the diesel having more power but also being noisier. The Compass is not fuel efficient and has lower resale values compared to its rivals. It has a unique design but lacks the flexibility and practicality of other compact SUVs.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 4:44 PM PT

The Jeep Compass is a smaller car produced by the US company as a competitor to the Nissan Qashqai. It aims to provide off-road capabilities similar to larger Jeeps, but without the high running costs. However, it falls short in terms of quality compared to its rivals such as the Qashqai, Ford Kuga, and VW Tiguan.

On the road, the Compass disappoints with its body roll, vague steering, and uncomfortable ride. It crashes over bumps and potholes, making for an unpleasant driving experience. Engine options include a two-wheel-drive 154bhp 2.0-litre petrol with a manual gearbox, a four-wheel-drive 168bhp 2.4-litre with a CVT auto, and two diesel options. The most powerful diesel engine offers good performance and towing capacity but is noisy. The cabin is also filled with various noises, making it a noisy and unrelaxing place to be, especially on the motorway.

In terms of MPG, CO2 emissions, and running costs, the Compass is not very impressive. While it is cheaper than its rivals upfront, its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are higher, resulting in higher day-to-day running costs. Additionally, the Compass has lower predicted residual values compared to its competitors, potentially making it a false economy at resale time. However, it does come with a range of gadgets and features, such as air-con, electric windows, cruise control, iPod compatibility, USB port, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, heated leather seats, and a six-CD changer.

The Jeep Compass has a distinctive design that may polarize opinions. It combines Jeep's signature grille and headlight arrangement with chunky wheel arches and car-like proportions. While the large alloy wheels add toughness to its appearance, it lacks the purpose of a Wrangler or the premium SUV feel of the Grand Cherokee.

Inside the Compass, the raised driving position provides good visibility over other vehicles. However, the lack of adjustable steering reach makes it difficult to find a comfortable driving position. The rear pillars are chunky, resulting in significant blind spots. The seats offer limited flexibility, with little more than the ability to fold flat. There is adequate space for four adults, but the cupholders positioned on the transmission tunnel make the middle seat uncomfortable. The boot size is below average for its class, but the front offers plenty of storage options with deep door bins and storage pockets.

In terms of safety, the Compass comes with six airbags, traction and stability control, active head restraints, and a system designed to reduce the risk of rollover accidents. However, the build quality is poor, with low-grade plastics throughout. Jeep has also performed poorly in terms of reliability and customer satisfaction in the past.