“bumpy ride. doesn't have some of the basics, i.e. can't open gas tank from inside, trunk from key fob.”
2016 Jeep Compass: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Jeep Compass is a reshuffled trim lineup led by the new Sport SE and 75th Anniversary editions. Otherwise, this is a light update of the outgoing first-generation Compass, not a redesign.
About the 2016 Jeep Compass
1st generation Compass (2007-2017), late-cycle 2016 model year; final full model year before the all-new second-generation Compass arrived during 2017.
Jeep positions the Compass as a compact crossover that mixes everyday city use with Jeep style and available bad-weather or light-trail capability. Its core appeal is simple: easier to park and more efficient than a larger SUV, but still useful for commuting, carrying gear, and handling snow or rough roads when equipped with 4WD. Compared with many compact crossovers of its era, its biggest calling cards were the Jeep look, higher ride height, and the availability of real off-road hardware.
The 2016 Compass ranges from the basic Sport to the comfort-focused Latitude, which has heated front seats and a 6.5-inch touchscreen. The High Altitude Edition is the upscale, street-focused version, with leather-trimmed seats, a sunroof, and remote start. Sport SE adds comfort and visual upgrades to the base formula, while the 75th Anniversary edition stands out with bronze details, special leather trim, a sunroof, and anniversary badging.
What changed, by category
Styling
Jeep adds the Sport SE and 75th Anniversary editions while dropping the Altitude Edition and Limited. Sport SE brings larger alloy wheels and Mineral Gray accents, while the anniversary model adds bronze exterior details, special badging, and unique cabin trim.
Tech
Bluetooth hands-free calling, satellite radio, and USB ports become standard across the lineup.
2016 Jeep Compass specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd / Auto, 6-Spd AutoStick | Automatic, CVT / Auto, 6-Spd AutoStick | Automatic, CVT / Auto, 6-Spd AutoStick | Auto, 6-Spd AutoStick | Automatic, CVT / Auto, 6-Spd AutoStick |
| Drivetrain | FWD / 4WD | FWD / 4WD | FWD / 4WD | 4WD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20–23 mpg | 20–22 mpg | 20–22 mpg | 21 mpg | 21–22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26–30 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 28 mpg | 26–28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 158–172 hp | 158–172 hp | 158–172 hp | 172 hp | 158–172 hp |
| Torque | 141–165 lb-ft | 141–165 lb-ft | 141–165 lb-ft | 165 lb-ft | 141–165 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 53.6 cu-ft | 53.6 cu-ft | 53.6 cu-ft | 53.6 cu-ft | 53.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.4 in | 39.4 in | 39.4 in | 39.4 in | 39.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | |||||
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Headlights | |||||
| Hill Descent Control | |||||
| Hill Start Assist | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Mirrors | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Tow Hooks | |||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||||
| Bluetooth | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||||
| USB Ports | |||||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Power Locks | |||||
| Power Windows | |||||
| Reclining Rear Seats | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||||
| Tilt Wheel | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Jeep Compass?
The biggest change is the revised trim lineup. Jeep adds the Sport SE and 75th Anniversary editions and drops the previous Altitude Edition and Limited trims.
Is the 2016 Jeep Compass a redesigned model?
No. The 2016 Compass remains part of the first generation and keeps the same basic body and four-cylinder engine lineup. It is a light-update year centered on trim and equipment changes.
Which Jeep Compass trims are new for 2016?
The Sport SE and 75th Anniversary editions are new for 2016. Sport SE is a dressier and more comfortable take on the base Sport, while the anniversary model adds bronze accents, special leather trim, a sunroof, and commemorative badging.
What technology became standard on the 2016 Jeep Compass?
Bluetooth hands-free calling, satellite radio, and USB ports became standard across the 2016 Compass lineup.
Did the 2016 Jeep Compass get a new engine?
No. The 2016 Compass carries over the same basic 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine setup, with front-wheel-drive and Jeep 4WD configurations remaining in the lineup.
2016 Jeep Compass Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Jeep Compass.
3.8
2016 Jeep Compass
(238 reviews)
“I loved my Jeep, it was great. It handled well and did everything a Jeep should in a smaller version that was easy to handle.”
“It is a great size vehicle and I truly enjoy it. I am a true Jeep enthusiast now and my future cars will also be Jeep.”