How does the 2023 Jeep Compass compare to its one-year predecessor? While the 2022 Jeep Compass still holds up phenomenally well as a compact SUV, the difference a year can make might surprise you with this model. Is the upgrade right for you? We’ll answer those questions and help you drive the right car off the lot.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Drivers can feel the discernable difference of the 2023 model’s turbo charged engine.
- Four-wheel drive is now standard across all the Compass models.
- Improvement in MPG in the newer model year, but nothing too extreme.
- Most other features and functions remain the same in comparison to the older model.
THE NEW ENGINE: 2023 JEEP COMPASS
Nothing shows off this new vehicle’s upgraded mechanics more than the turbocharged 2.0L I4 engine that replaced the 2.4L four cylinder in the 2022 model. This new engine, hands down, is the biggest upgrade and it is not something you can’t ignore. The unhurried acceleration of the 2022 model is in stark contrast to the power of the newer model. The increased torque of 221 lb-ft gives huge versatility in drivability. This is only matched by the 2023 Compasses increased horsepower from 177 in 2022 to 200 in 2023. You’ll feel this car move as soon as you touch the accelerator and is great for open roads to mountain sides. In addition, whereas four-wheel drive was optional before, with this new Compasses in 2023, it is the standard. It gives the vehicle an all-around boost in performance.
FUEL ECONOMY: SLIGHT EDGE TO THE NEWER MODEL
The 2023 Jeep Compass, atop its most notable feature, does come with improved gas mileage for the all-wheel drive engine. The EPA fuel economy estimates 24 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway. That’s compared to 22 and 31 in the 2022 model mpg respectively. While it’s not a huge difference, it’s still impressive when compared to its new power. It’s important to note that no fuel mileage is being “lost” with the upgraded engine. Both the 2023 and 2022 share the same fuel capacity of 13.5 gallons.
SPACE AND SIZE: A PERFECT TIE
As far as leg room, headroom, and overall comfort inside each of these vehicles there is a similar layout. Each car sits at 65 inches tall and 173 inches wide. You’ll have about 40 inches of space for front headroom and legroom. Each of your five passengers will have about 38 inches of head and leg room making either of these SUVs a spacious, comfortable drive.
FEATURES: 2023 BRINGS MORE CHANGES
This is again where the two models start to deviate. The 2023 Jeep Compass comes in five trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Latitude Lux, and Trailhawk. Higher trims for both models include fantastic features like the Alpine sound system, heated seats, power outlets and a climate control system. But the 2023 model pulls ahead most notably in the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. As the standard for their infotainment system, the Uconnect 5, sports a wide 10.5-inch touchscreen monitor that has five times the computing power than the previous system. Jeep also added a driver monitoring system to help combat distractions on the road. While each model in the past three years of the Compass’ development comes fully intact with all modern safety equipment (lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, etc.), the newest model does have tools that weren’t previously seen.
IS THE NEWER MODEL RIGHT FOR YOU?
There are some distinct features of the 2023 Jeep Compass that puts it above its predecessor. The engine upgrade is a welcome improvement to the Compass line. With only a $2,000 difference, it’s hard to ignore the superiority of the newer model. With its improved power, there is of course a need for improved safety. The 2023 Compass didn’t sleep on any feature that would limit its drivers from using its new power and improved potential to its fullest extent.