Name: Jeep Compass Review
Item: Jeep Compass
Author: Gumtree.com

The Jeep Compass is a practical family SUV with rugged styling, great interior space and incredible off-road performance. Although the first generation barely made a dent in the premium segment, the second generation, which was released in 2017, is far more capable. This is all thanks to the efficient diesel and petrol powertrains, contemporary design changes and better build quality. Equal parts fun and practicality, the Jeep Compass has plenty to offer if you’re in the market for a compact crossover.

Visit the Jeep Compass model page to explore available cars and learn more

What we think about the Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass effectively combines a rugged edge with contemporary styling.

Pros

Great design

Spacious

Good build quality

Cons

–

Uninspired driving experience

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Diesel engines are noisy

The first generation Compass was released in 2011 and ran until 2015. It wasn’t a big hit in the European market due to a fairly poor choice of engines. However, it made an incredible comeback with the 2017 release, which offers a range of diesel and petrol engines, as well as five trim levels.

Driving performance of the Jeep Compass

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

Overall, the Jeep Compass is more of an SUV than anything else. Incredible off-road performance, especially in the Trailhawk spec, makes it stand out against rivals, but on the tarmac, it can feel a bit uncomfortable. It’s not the best choice for European roads because there’s too much body roll while going around corners at higher speeds. The suspension is also a bit of a let-down on city roads. However, weighty steering and plenty of enhanced technology mean you can expect a composed drive.

Safety and reliability of the Jeep Compass

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

In terms of safety, the Jeep Compass excels thanks to a host of standard features that make use of the latest technology. In fact, it scored a full five-star safety rating on the Euro NCAP tests. The Compass is equipped with front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view reversing camera and a forward-collision warning system that alerts you if there’s a slow-moving or stopped vehicle ahead of you. It should be noted that the performance of the first-gen model is lacklustre, given that it only scored two stars on the Euro NCAP safety rating system.

Under the bonnet of the Jeep Compass

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

The Compass is available in a choice of two petrol and two diesel powertrains. The entry-level 138 bhp 1.4 MultiAir petrol unit goes from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 9.8 seconds, while its diesel alternative takes 11 seconds. The bigger units are only available with all-wheel drive transmission and a nine-speed auto box. As they’re significantly heavier, there’s little difference in terms of top speeds compared to entry-level units. From the 2011 model, the top choice is the quiet and fast 156 bhp 2.0-litre, which manages 0 to 62 mph in 10.8 seconds.

What you'll find in the Jeep Compass

Our Design Rating8 / 10

While the older model was a bit odd looking, with unusual proportions and clunky wheel arches, the 2017 generation Compass aces the design aspect thanks to its jaunty and rugged styling. Jeep’s trademark seven-slot grille combined with modern elements like wraparound LED headlamps and strong half-hexagon wheel arches make it stand out against rivals. A sculpted bonnet and deep grille enhance the fresh look. Contrast roofing and big chrome strips add an air of luxury, marking the car’s presence in the premium SUV segment.

Comfort and interiors in the Jeep Compass

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

Contrary to its rugged looks, the interiors are quite comfortable and spacious. In both generations, you can expect a good amount of legroom for front and rear seats. In the latest models, plenty of adjustment options for the front seat and steering wheel make it easy to find a good driving position, and the visibility is great too. The ride is quiet and refined, although the diesels can get a bit noisy at low revs. Open up the back and you’ll be greeted by 438 litres of boot space, which is comparable to rivals.

What features you'll find in the Jeep Compass

Our Features Rating9 / 10

Inside the Compass you’ll find plenty of storage bins and charging points for everyday practicality. The cabin and dash make use of soft-touch materials to elevate the luxurious feel. Upgrading to the Limited trim gives you heated leather seats, LED headlights, navigation, and a heated steering wheel. While the older model is only equipped with a CD multichanger, the new generation gets an 8.4-inch touchscreen that works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Jeep Compass

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

While the fuel efficiency isn’t class-leading here, it’s still pretty decent for an SUV. The entry-level petrol averages 36.7 mpg, while the diesel equivalent returns around 43 mpg. The more powerful diesel available only in four-wheel drive gives you around 38.7 mpg, with the top-spec petrol managing 30.7 mpg. In the older generation, the 2.2-litre CRD two-wheel drive performs best, achieving 43 mpg using the older testing method (expect slightly lower efficiency with real-time usage). Given that it’s an SUV, you can expect the spare parts to be slightly pricey – but you get good value here overall.

Running costs of the Jeep Compass

Our Cost Rating8 / 10

CO2 emissions range from 157 kg/m to 208 kg/m on the Jeep Compass. This means it falls within insurance groups 17 to 23, which is reasonable for a compact SUV. The five years/75,000 miles warranty package is also great and includes servicing every 12,500 miles or annually. The cleanest model is the 118 bhp 1.6 MultiJet diesel two-wheel drive with manual transmission. In terms of reliability Jeep has a pretty good reputation, so you don’t need to worry too much about unexpected garage visits.

Our verdict of the Jeep Compass

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

More comfortable off-road than on the tarmac, the Jeep Compass combines fun and practicality to make a well-equipped family package.

Jeep Compass Review