Nestling midway between the subcompact Renegade and larger Cherokee, the 2020 Jeep Compass comes as a comfortable, off-road vehicle. It has a beefy styling and the go-anywhere do-anything aura that helps it stand out from the current rivals in the subcompact crossover segment. While there haven’t been a major upscale from the previous model’s features, the new Jeep has one of the best infotainment systems in the segment.
1. Excellent Off-Road Capabilities
Like any other Jeep, the new Compass impresses when put through its paces. The entry-level trims come standard with front-wheel drive, but off-road-oriented four-wheel drives are available.
All trims are powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine that offers 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and quick upshifts in the 4WD versions make the SUV a decent off-roader despite not having a low-range gear like the Wrangler.
2. Impressive Performance
The new Compass represents a consistent effort to take on the mainstream with its four-wheeling. Only a few SUVs outside the Jeep are as adept as this vehicle, and while most rivals offer all-wheel-drive, hardly any is equipped with stellar 4X4 capabilities. Drivers can opt for the upgraded 4WD system that features low-range gearing and the Selec-Terrain traction management system.
A fully equipped four-wheel-drive Compass can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is a slight defeat from the Wrangler and Toyota RAV4, both of which tow up to 3,500 pounds. Ground clearance ranges from 7.8 inches at entry-level to 8.5 inches in upper Trailhawk trims.
3. Extended Safety Features
Compared to the current compact SUV rivals offering common standard features, the new Compass extends its safety upgrades to every trim.
Upscaled safety options include rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear parking sensors. They further include rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-keep assist.
4. Comfortable Handling
The new Jeep feels mostly composed behind the wheel. It provides a comfortable ride thanks to smooth steering, acceptable-ground clearance, and quick upshifts during transmission, especially in the 4X4 nine-speed transmission models.
The Jeep’s Active Drive Low four-wheel system and hill descent control boost drivers’ confidence when tackling difficult terrain.
5. Generous Cargo Space
The Compass offers 27.2 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats. While this may be deemed too low in the segment, folding the rear seat increases the storage capacity to 59.8 cubic feet. The convenience is also unmatched, with numerous cubbies throughout the cargo floor, tie-downs mounted in the rear, and wide cargo area. Folding the front passenger seat allows you to carry long items.
In conclusion, the new Compass offers great value, given its affordable pricing. It boasts an excellent infotainment system, outstanding off-road capabilities, and a spacious back seat. There’s a generous selection of packages to improve its workout capabilities and fine-tuning the interior.
Visit Thornton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to get your new Jeep Compass. We will assist you to browse through our inventory and select the ideal car that best suits your needs.
Image via Jeep.com
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