2023 Jeep Compass

The compact crossover segment is one of the busiest in the USA, with enticing new options arriving on a regular basis. To face these challengers, Jeep has given its second-generation Compass a comprehensive facelift for the 2022 model year. There was no change to the mechanical bits, but that oversight change came in for attention for the 2023 model year, thanks to a new turbocharged powertrain. The new unit is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower, up from the old 2.4-liter Tigershark's 177 hp, with 221 lb-ft of torque, up from 172 lb-ft. Power is sent into a new eight-speed automatic transmission before being distributed to all four wheels. This gives the 2023 Jeep Compass the performance boost it's needed all along.

Built on the Stellantis (FCA) Small Wide LWB 4x4 platform, elements of which are shared with the smaller Renegade and larger Cherokee, the Jeep Compass has serious competitors in the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mazda CX-50, and Ford Bronco Sport. But, with its attractive new face, nicer interior, and vastly-improved mechanical parts, the Compass has a better chance than ever of stealing at least some of their lunch money.

The price of the Jeep Compass is quite competitive for the segment. The base Sport goes for just $29,995, with the Latitude asking for $32,790. The Latitude Lux starts at $34,190, while the Altitude is just a smidge more at $34,585. Limited models have an MSRP of $35,495, the Trailhawk goes for $36,240, and the (RED) for $37,935. At the top of the range, the High Altitude is priced from $38,835. These prices exclude the $1,595 destination charge in the USA.

The driving experience in the 2023 Jeep Compass has been transformed by the arrival of the new turbo engine. Gone is the old nine-speed automatic gearbox's hyperactivity, replaced by a much better-behaved eight-speed automatic. There's no more need to chase the revs, either, because the boosted engine delivers a lot more torque than the old 2.4-liter, and does so at lower engine speeds as well. The end result is a smooth and responsive powertrain that feels livelier and a lot more refined.

Handling-wise, the 2023 Compass offers a driving experience much like any other compact crossover SUV: secure and stable, but not very communicative via (admittedly) decently-weighted steering or the seat of the driver's pants. There's commendably little body roll, but pushing too hard in corners sees safe understeer occurring along with stability control intervention. This likely won't bother most drivers, because vehicles like this are seldom bought for their spritely driving dynamics, but those looking for dynamic thrills beyond the new engine may be disappointed.

The Jeep Compass has finally morphed into the compact crossover SUV it was meant to be all along, thanks to the attention lavished on it six years into its production run. In many ways, it's not an exceptional vehicle, but neither are most contenders in this segment. However, with the new 2.0-liter turbo engine, refreshed exterior and improved interior, there is now lots more to like about it. The Jeep Compass also received a good safety review from the IIHS, and has a consistently reliable reputation with very few recalls. We're not sure it's the best in the segment, but you should definitely add it to your shortlist.

Don't let the wide selection and odd names confuse you. Even the base model, the Sport, is a good value proposition. Nevertheless, we'd propose that the Latitude is the best Compass, as it gives you more customization options. The step up to the Lux is a bit of a juup, and it still misses out on some of the top features. Instead, we'd option on the Convenience and Driver Assist Groups, which give you something akin to the Limited for a lot less money. However, if you intend on using the Compass for regular camping trips into the great unknown, we'd have to choose the Trailhawk, since it has the best off-road capabilities.