Jeep Compass (2011-2015) evaluation

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【Summary】The Jeep Compass is a smaller, more affordable car that competes with 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 options include petrol and diesel variants, with the diesel having better power but being noisy. The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are not impressive, and the resale value is predicted to be lower than its rivals.

FutureCar Staff Sep 02, 2023 4:47 PM PT

The Jeep Compass is a smaller car produced by the US company, aiming to compete with the Nissan Qashqai. It offers off-road capability similar to larger Jeeps but without the high running costs. However, it falls short in terms of quality compared to the Qashqai, Ford Kuga, and VW Tiguan.

On the road, the Compass disappoints with its body roll, vague steering, and uncomfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.0-liter petrol with 154bhp and a 2.4-liter four-wheel-drive with 168bhp. Diesel options include a 2.2-liter two-wheel-drive with 134bhp and a 2.2-liter four-wheel-drive with 161bhp. The latter diesel engine offers the most power and can tow up to 2,000kg. However, the diesel engines are noisy and produce various other cabin noises, making the Compass a less pleasant place to be, especially on the motorway.

While the starting price of the Compass is lower compared to its rivals, its fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and predicted residual values are not impressive. The petrol engine returns 37mpg, while the most efficient diesel engine offers 46mpg. The Compass also comes with a range of gadgets, including air-con, electric windows, cruise control, and iPod compatibility.

The design of the Compass is a matter of personal preference. It combines Jeep's signature grille and headlight arrangement with chunky wheel arches and car-like proportions. However, it lacks the sense of purpose of a Wrangler or the premium feel of a Grand Cherokee.

Inside, the Compass offers a raised driving position and good forward visibility. However, the lack of steering reach adjustment and chunky rear pillars create blind spots. The seats are not very flexible, and the boot space is below average. On the positive side, there are plenty of storage options in the front.

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