Jeep Cherokee vs Jeep Compass: Which Suv Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a rugged trail. The market is packed with options, but for those seeking adventure and iconic styling, Jeep remains a top contender. Today, we’re pitting two popular Jeep models against each other to help you make an informed decision: the Jeep Cherokee and the Jeep Compass.
Both the Cherokee and Compass offer the rugged Jeep DNA, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Cherokee, with its storied history, often appeals to those seeking a more traditional off-road experience and a bit more space. On the other hand, the Compass provides a more compact and fuel-efficient option, perfect for city driving and weekend getaways.
This comparison dives deep into the key aspects of each vehicle, from performance and features to price and practicality. We’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of both the Jeep Cherokee and the Jeep Compass, ensuring you have all the information necessary to choose the Jeep that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Get ready to discover which Jeep is the perfect match for you!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Cherokee | Compass |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | Multiple: 2.0L Turbo, 3.2L V6 | Multiple: 2.0L, 2.4L |
| Horsepower (Base) | 180-271 hp | 177-200 hp |
| Torque (Base) | 239 lb-ft | 175 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed Automatic | 6-speed or 9-speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or 4WD | FWD or 4WD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 20/29 mpg (2.0L Turbo) | 24/32 mpg (2.0L) |
| Cargo Capacity (Behind Rear Seats) | 25.8 – 54.7 cu ft | 27.2 – 59.8 cu ft |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Ground Clearance (Max) | 8.7 inches | 8.2 inches |
| Off-Road Capability | Trail Rated (some trims) | Trail Rated (some trims) |
| Infotainment Screen | 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch | 7-inch or 8.4-inch |
| Available Safety Features | Wide range, including adaptive cruise control | Wide range, including adaptive cruise control |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine Options
- Jeep Cherokee: Offers a range of engines, including a powerful V6 and a fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder. The V6 provides strong acceleration, while the turbo-four balances performance and economy. Cons include potential higher fuel consumption with the V6.
- Jeep Compass: Typically comes with a standard four-cylinder engine, offering decent fuel economy but less power compared to the Cherokee’s optional engines. Acceleration can feel sluggish, especially when fully loaded.
- Winner: Cherokee
Off-Road Capability
- Jeep Cherokee: Available with Jeep’s Trailhawk trim, the Cherokee boasts exceptional off-road prowess with features like a lifted suspension, locking rear differential, and skid plates. It excels on challenging terrains. Cons can include a harsher on-road ride.
- Jeep Compass: Offers decent off-road capability in its Trailhawk trim, but it’s not as capable as the Cherokee Trailhawk. Ground clearance and approach/departure angles are less aggressive.
- Winner: Cherokee
Interior Space
- Jeep Cherokee: Provides a more spacious interior with greater legroom and cargo capacity, making it a better choice for families or those needing to haul more gear. Offers a more comfortable experience for passengers.
- Jeep Compass: Has a smaller interior, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area. It’s suitable for smaller families or individuals but may feel cramped for larger groups.
- Winner: Cherokee
Technology & Infotainment
- Jeep Cherokee: Features a modern infotainment system with available features like a larger touchscreen, advanced driver-assistance systems, and premium audio options. Offers a more tech-forward experience.
- Jeep Compass: Comes with a user-friendly infotainment system, but the screen size and available features might be less extensive than those in the Cherokee. The technology feels less cutting-edge.
- Winner: Cherokee
Ride Quality & Handling
- Jeep Cherokee: Offers a more comfortable ride, particularly on the highway, with a smoother suspension. Handling is generally composed, though it can feel less agile than some competitors.
- Jeep Compass: The ride quality is adequate for everyday driving, but it can feel a bit harsher on rough roads. Handling is adequate but not particularly sporty.
- Winner: Cherokee
Price & Value
- Jeep Cherokee: Generally priced higher than the Compass due to its larger size, more powerful engines, and more features. Offers a higher level of content.
- Jeep Compass: More affordable, making it a better value for budget-conscious buyers. Offers a good amount of features for the price.
- Winner: Compass
Fuel Economy
- Jeep Cherokee: Fuel economy varies depending on the engine, with the turbocharged four-cylinder offering better efficiency than the V6. Overall, fuel economy is decent for its class.
- Jeep Compass: Generally offers better fuel economy than the Cherokee, especially with its standard four-cylinder engine. It’s a more fuel-efficient option for daily commuting.
- Winner: Compass
Exterior Styling
- Jeep Cherokee: Features a distinctive and somewhat polarizing exterior design with its split headlight design. Offers a more rugged and adventurous look.
- Jeep Compass: Boasts a more modern and refined design, with a more compact and stylish appearance. Appeals to a broader audience.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | Jeep Cherokee |
| Fuel Efficiency | Jeep Compass |
| Cargo Space | Jeep Cherokee |
| Off-Road Capability | Tie |
| Value | Jeep Compass |
What They Have in Common
- Seating Capacity: Both the Cherokee and Compass comfortably seat five passengers, offering similar passenger space in both models.
- Available 4wd: Both SUVs offer four-wheel-drive configurations, making them capable in various weather and off-road conditions.
- Infotainment Systems: Both vehicles come equipped with modern infotainment systems, including touchscreen displays and smartphone integration.
- Safety Features: Both models offer a range of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and available advanced driver-assistance systems.
- Trail Rated Trims: Both models offer Trail Rated trims, which provide enhanced off-road capabilities.
Jeep Cherokee Vs Jeep Compass Buying Guide
Performance and Capability
The Jeep Cherokee boasts superior off-road capability thanks to its available Trailhawk trim, featuring a more advanced 4×4 system, higher ground clearance, and a locking rear differential. Its engine options, including a powerful V6, provide more towing capacity and stronger acceleration than the Compass. The Compass, while offering decent all-weather performance with its available 4×4, is better suited for light off-roading and urban driving. The Cherokee excels in challenging terrains, making it the preferred choice for adventurers seeking robust performance.
Interior and Comfort
The Cherokee generally offers a more spacious and refined interior. Passengers in both the front and rear seats often have more legroom and headroom than in the Compass. The Cherokee’s higher trim levels feature premium materials and more advanced comfort features. The Compass, while still comfortable, has a slightly more basic interior design. The Cherokee provides a more luxurious and accommodating environment for both driver and passengers, particularly on longer journeys.
Technology and Features
Both vehicles offer a range of modern technology features, including touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Cherokee often includes more optional features and a larger touchscreen display in higher trims. The Compass provides a solid technology package, but the Cherokee’s options may include features not available on the Compass. Both vehicles offer a good user experience, but the Cherokee’s higher trims offer more sophisticated technology.
Fuel Efficiency
The Jeep Compass typically provides better fuel economy compared to the Cherokee, particularly in city driving. Its smaller engine options contribute to its superior efficiency. The Cherokee’s engines, especially the V6, consume more fuel, but offer increased power and capability. If fuel efficiency is a primary concern, the Compass is the more economical choice. However, the difference is often offset by the Cherokee’s enhanced performance and versatility.
Price and Value
The Jeep Compass generally has a lower starting price, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. The Cherokee, with its greater capabilities and features, comes with a higher price tag. Considering the features and capabilities offered, the Cherokee provides good value, especially if off-road performance and towing are priorities. The Compass is a good value for its class, but the Cherokee’s price reflects its more comprehensive capabilities and refined features.
Safety Features
Both the Cherokee and Compass are equipped with a suite of standard safety features, including airbags, stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Cherokee often offers additional safety features in its higher trims, such as advanced parking assistance and lane-keeping assist. Both vehicles perform well in safety tests, but the Cherokee’s higher-end trims often provide a more comprehensive safety package. Both models prioritize passenger safety through a range of standard and available features.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Jeep Cherokee If…
- You need more powerful engine options.
- You need more interior space and cargo capacity.
- You prioritize a more rugged and off-road-focused experience.
- You want a wider selection of trim levels and features.
Buy Jeep Compass If…
- You want a more fuel-efficient option.
- You prefer a smaller, more maneuverable SUV for city driving.
- You’re looking for a more affordable Jeep.
- You prioritize a modern and stylish interior design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in off-road capability?
The Jeep Cherokee, particularly in its Trailhawk trim, excels in off-road situations due to its advanced 4×4 system, higher ground clearance, and locking rear differential. The Compass offers decent all-weather capability with its available 4×4 system, but it is better suited for light off-roading and urban driving. The Cherokee is designed to handle more challenging terrains.
Which vehicle offers better fuel economy?
The Jeep Compass generally provides better fuel economy compared to the Cherokee. Its smaller engine options contribute to its superior efficiency, making it the more economical choice for daily driving. The Cherokee’s more powerful engines consume more fuel, but offer increased performance and capability, impacting its overall fuel efficiency.
What are the main differences in interior space?
The Jeep Cherokee typically offers a more spacious interior, with more legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Cherokee often features more premium materials and a more refined design in its higher trim levels. The Compass has a comfortable interior, but the Cherokee provides a more luxurious and accommodating environment for passengers, especially on longer journeys.
Which Jeep is better for towing?
The Jeep Cherokee provides significantly better towing capacity compared to the Compass. The Cherokee’s more powerful engine options allow it to tow heavier loads. If towing is a priority, the Cherokee is the more capable choice. The Compass can tow, but its capacity is considerably lower than the Cherokee’s.
What technology features are available in each vehicle?
Both the Cherokee and Compass offer modern technology features, including touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Cherokee often includes more optional features, such as a larger touchscreen and more advanced driver aids. The Compass provides a solid technology package, but the Cherokee offers more sophisticated technology in its higher trims.
Which Jeep is more affordable?
The Jeep Compass generally has a lower starting price, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. The Cherokee, with its greater capabilities and features, comes with a higher price tag. The Compass offers a good value proposition, but the Cherokee’s price reflects its more comprehensive capabilities and refined features.
Which Jeep is safer?
Both the Cherokee and Compass are equipped with a suite of standard safety features, including airbags, stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Both vehicles perform well in safety tests. The Cherokee often offers additional safety features in its higher trims. Both models prioritize passenger safety through a range of standard and available features.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass depends on your needs. The Cherokee wins for its superior off-road prowess, more spacious interior, and stronger engine options. The Cherokee provides more capabilities and a more luxurious experience. While the Compass offers better fuel economy and a lower price point, the Cherokee’s overall versatility and ruggedness make it the better pick for those seeking adventure and performance.
Winner: Jeep Cherokee