~ A DriveWays Review ~
by Frank A. Aukofer

Given its heritage as a go-anywhere General Purpose (GP, or Jeep) military vehicle from 1941 in World War II, softer versions like the modern Compass and Patriot have not elicited the appreciation of models like the Wrangler or Grand Cherokee.

Still, the 2023 Jeep Compass Latitude LUX 4X4 four-door, tested for this review, ramps up its appeal as a compact crossover sport utility vehicle with charming looks, good performance and handling, comfortable and quiet interior, decent fuel economy and a competitive price.

Its attributes appear to be aimed mainly at on-road travel, not unlike some of its competitors: Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco Sport, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan. However, it comes standard with all-wheel drive (front-drive is not available) and can handle rugged terrain, though not likely areas requiring a Wrangler. The assessment is based on its Jeep roots, though the company now is part of Stellantis, a multi-national automobile manufacturer.

Overall, the Compass is one of those vehicles that, over time, insinuates itself into a driver’s consciousness as a joy to drive in urban traffic or cruising on crowded Interstate highways. Its personality is eager and frisky, informed by an amalgamation of features and engineering to make it more than the sum of its parts.

Start with the drive train. It’s a new 2.0-cylinder four-cylinder engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger that delivers 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, or twisting force. The power reaches all four wheels through a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually.

With its responsive throttle, the combination can propel the Compass from rest to 60 miles a hour in about eight seconds, according to independent tests. That’s respectable for a 4,760-pound vehicle, though not outstanding, and feels faster from behind the steering wheel. Top speed is around 120 miles an hour, though it’s not likely to be sought by many owners.

Responsive handling is enhanced by the trim dimensions—the Compass measures just 14 feet 5 inches long, which with its tight suspension system enhances steering response. The tradeoff is a somewhat choppy ride over unforgiving surfaces.

Despite its short profile, the Compass delivers 100 cubic feet of space for passengers, along with 27 cubic feet for cargo behind the back seat. The passenger space is about what you find in a midsize car and the cargo area is about twice that of a compact or midsize sedan.

The interior is pleasantly inviting, with good visibility all around because of the Compass’s SUV shape. Supportive and well-bolstered front seats are upholstered in black perforated faux leather. A stylish touch is designer gray cloth inserts in the doors and instrument panel, which houses easy-to-read analog and digital gauges as well as a large, eye level infotainment screen.

Outboard back seats deliver generous head and knee room. Even the center-rear seat is habitable, though high, hard and a bit cramped if others are seated on both sides. Seatbacks fold nearly flat for additional cargo carrying.

There’s also extra hideaway space underneath the carpeted cargo floor, which does not carry a spare wheel or tire. The substitute is a “tire repair kit.”

The Environmental Protection Agency, which certifies fuel economy, rates the city/highway/combined fuel consumption of the tested Compass Latitude LUX at 24/32/27 mpg on regular gasoline. The fuel economy is enhanced by a mostly unobtrusive (ESS) engine stop-start system, which can be switched off if the driver chooses.

The tester came with an arresting $495 “Laser Blue Pearl-Coat” exterior paint and a base price of $35,290, along with full safety features and a long list of standard and optional features that included:

LUX drive assist, which allows for some limited hands-free driving; adaptive cruise control with stop and go; rain-sensing and de-icing windshield wipers; surround-view camera; front and rear parking assist; dual-zone automatic climate control; foot-activated power lift gate, dual-pane panoramic sunroof; premium Alpine audio system; second-row universal charge ports; wireless device charging, and LED headlights, taillights and fog lamps.

All of that equipment boosted the as-tested price to $41,630, including a $1,595 destination charge.

Over its nearly nine decades of war and civilian service, the Jeep brand has honed its reputation as a rugged, go anywhere vehicle revered by its owners despite some occasional reliability glitches. With this new Compass, the company proves it can also deliver a multi-purpose vehicle for buyers who may seldom venture into road-less terrain.

Specifications

  • Model: 2023 Jeep Compass Latitude LUX 4X4 four-door crossover sport utility vehicle.
  • Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder, turbocharged; 200 hp, 221 lb-ft torque.
  • Transmission: Eight-speed automatic with manual shift mode and all-wheel drive.
  • Overall length: 14 feet 5 inches.
  • Height: 5 feet 5 inches.
  • EPA/SAE passenger/cargo volume: 100/27 cubic feet.
  • Weight: 4,760 pounds.
  • Towing capability: 2,000 pounds.
  • City/highway range: 324/432 miles.
  • EPA city/highway/combined fuel consumption: 24/32/27 mpg.
  • Base price, including destination charge: $35,290.
  • Price as tested: $41,630.

Disclaimer: The manufacturer provided the vehicle used to conduct this test drive and review. Photos ©Stellantis