Jeep Compass (2011-2015) overview

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【Summary】The Jeep Compass is a smaller, more affordable car that aims to rival the Nissan Qashqai. However, it falls short in terms of quality and performance compared to its competitors. The off-road ability is good, but on-road it has lots of body roll and uncomfortable ride. The engine choices include petrol and diesel options, with the latter offering more power but also more noise. The Compass is not very fuel-efficient and has lower residual values compared to its rivals.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 9:32 AM PT

The Jeep Compass is a smaller car produced by the US company in an attempt to 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 the Qashqai, Ford Kuga, and VW Tiguan in terms of quality.

On the road, the Compass disappoints with excessive body roll, vague steering, and an uncomfortable ride. Engine options include a two-wheel-drive 2.0-liter petrol with 154bhp and a four-wheel-drive 2.4-liter with 168bhp. Diesel options include a two-wheel-drive 2.2-liter with 134bhp and a four-wheel-drive 2.2-liter with 161bhp. The latter diesel engine offers the most power and can tow up to 2,000kg. However, the diesel engines are noisy and other noises enter the cabin as well, making for a less-than-quiet driving experience.

In terms of MPG, CO2 emissions, and running costs, the Compass is not very impressive. The petrol engines offer a fuel consumption of 37mpg, while the most efficient diesel engine achieves 46mpg. The Compass also has lower residual values compared to its rivals, making it a potentially costly choice in the long run. However, it 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 Jeep Compass is subjective. It features Jeep's iconic grille and headlight arrangement, chunky wheel arches, and car-like proportions. However, it lacks the purpose of a Wrangler or the premium SUV feel of the Grand Cherokee.

Inside, the Compass offers a raised driving position and good forward visibility. However, the steering does not adjust for reach, making it difficult to find a comfortable position. The rear pillars are chunky, resulting in large blind spots. The seats are not very flexible, and the cupholders positioned on the transmission tunnel make the middle seat uncomfortable. The boot space is below average, but there are plenty of storage pockets 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 low-grade plastics used throughout. Jeep has also performed poorly in terms of reliability and customer satisfaction in the past.