Jeep Compass (2011-2015) overview

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【Summary】The Jeep Compass is a smaller, more affordable car that aims to compete with the Nissan Qashqai, but falls short in terms of quality and performance. The ride is uncomfortable and there is excessive body roll. The engine choices include petrol and diesel options, with the latter being more powerful but noisier. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are not impressive, and the car's resale value is predicted to be lower than its rivals.

FutureCar Staff Aug 26, 2023 9:54 AM PT

The Jeep Compass is an attempt by the US company to create a smaller, more practical car that can compete with the Nissan Qashqai. It offers off-road capabilities similar to larger Jeeps, but without the high running costs. However, it falls short in comparison to its rivals, such as the Qashqai, Ford Kuga, and VW Tiguan.

On the road, the Compass disappoints. It has excessive body roll, vague steering, and an uncomfortable ride that crashes over bumps and potholes. Engine options include a two-wheel-drive 154bhp 2.0-litre petrol with a manual gearbox, or a four-wheel-drive 168bhp 2.4 with a CVT auto. There are also diesel options available. The 161bhp diesel 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.

In terms of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the Compass is not very impressive. The petrol versions return 37mpg, while the most efficient diesel achieves 46mpg. This means that the Compass will cost more to run on a day-to-day basis compared to its rivals. Additionally, the Compass is predicted to have lower residual values, making it a potentially poor investment in the long run. However, the Compass does come with a range of gadgets and features, including air-con, electric windows, cruise control, iPod compatibility, USB port, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, heated leather seats, and a six CD changer.

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. The large alloy wheels add a touch of toughness, but overall, it lacks the sense of purpose of a Wrangler or the premium SUV feel of a Grand Cherokee.

Inside the Compass, you'll find a raised driving position that offers good forward visibility. However, the steering does not adjust for reach, making it difficult to find a comfortable driving position. The chunky rear pillars create significant blind spots to the rear. While there is enough space for four adults, the seats only fold flat and the cupholders positioned on the transmission tunnel make the middle seat uncomfortable. The boot size is below average, but there are plenty of storage pockets and bins in the front.

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 many low-grade plastics used. Jeep has also performed poorly in terms of reliability and customer satisfaction in the past.