Overview
The 2021 Jeep Compass is true to its lineage, with the classic seven-slot grille and off-road capabilities that other vehicles in its class can only dream of. Despite this, it doesn’t quite measure up to competitors like the Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V when it comes to ride quality and interior refinement. Still, you’ll turn heads as you traverse even the roughest terrain – there’s no mistaking a Jeep!
Unfortunately, the 2021 Compass doesn’t come with as much towing or off-road capability as its competitor, the Jeep Cherokee. Additionally, we don’t recommend it due to its underpowered four-cylinder engine and sluggish automatic transmission that are only available on all-wheel drive models. Despite offering plenty of technology features and cargo space, this compact crossover falls short in comparison to other popular vehicles in the same class.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The four-cylinder engine that drives every Compass is sluggish, and the optional nine-speed automatic transmission lags when it comes to executing shifts. All front-wheel versions come with a six-speed automated system for added convenience. If you opt for all-wheel drive, you’ll have access to an array of terrain conquering driving modes – giving your journey more freedom and power!
The car’s automatic setting distributes torque to the wheels as necessary, while Snow, Sand and Mud modes offer varying levels of wheel spin for improved traction. If you choose a Trailhawk model, it features an extra low “crawler” gear ratio coupled with Rock mode. This locks the Compass in first gear and directs power solely to those wheels finding grip.
Despite its tall, boxy design, the Compass provides an agile driving experience. The weight of the steering wheel is well balanced and responds quickly to input from driver. Cornering elicits some lean but overall offers a well-controlled ride that feels stable and secure both on road and offroad courses. Our initial drive in the Compass saw us tackling mild obstacles with ease as we experienced no issues with its all-wheel drive system at any point during our journey.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Despite competing with cars that are exclusively equipped with front-wheel drive, the 2021 Compass is every bit as efficient as its competitors. In fact, according to EPA estimates it can achieve up to 22 mpg city and 31 highway. Our testing regimen included a 75 mph fuel economy route where the previous model achieved an incredible 29 mpg result! Clearly, this car offers exceptional performance while also being incredibly economical – a winning combination for drivers everywhere.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2021 Compass earned a four-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) didn’t name it a Top Safety Pick. Jeep has made an impressive array of driver-assistance technology available on the Compass, but none of it is standard.
Is Jeep Compass a reliable car?
Is the Jeep Compass Reliable? The 2022 Jeep Compass has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Is Jeep discontinuing the Compass?
Unlike the Jeep Commander, the Jeep Compass is still on the road, but this will be its final model year which makes this is an opportune time to purchase an “old” Jeep before it has even had a chance to age.
Is a compass or Cherokee better?
JD Power gave the 2021 Compass an overall rating of 78 percent and a quality and reliability score of 82 percent, while the 2021 Cherokee scored 80 percent and 85 percent, respectively. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded both an overall safety rating of four out of five stars.