“Has good enough room and interior is nice, but I can feel every single bump in the road. I don't feel safe, at this time, driving because the tires don't feel like they grip anything. Also hate that it's not a smooth drive anywhere I go and it causes problems for my passengers that don't like driving with me because it's so bumpy. I also feel like it takes a lot more gas than what it should for the miles I drive.”
Jeep Compass: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Jeep Compass is an everyday compact SUV known for its city-friendly size, Jeep styling, and more trail ability than many small crossovers. Since 2023, it has paired a turbo engine with standard four-wheel drive.
The Compass has long been Jeep’s smaller, more road-friendly SUV, built for commuting and bad weather rather than hard-core off-roading alone. Updates over the years have steadily improved its cabin, ride, technology, and safety features. The second generation added a more polished feel and a dedicated Trailhawk model, while keeping the Compass compact and recognizably Jeep.
Strengths
- Its compact footprint makes it easier to live with in town than a larger Jeep SUV.
- Since 2023, the 200-horsepower turbo engine has given the Compass punchier performance than its older engine.
- Standard four-wheel drive on 2023 and newer models adds confidence in rain, snow, and on loose surfaces.
- The Trailhawk brings genuine trail-focused hardware to a class where many rivals are mainly built for pavement.
- The 2022 refresh gave the Compass a much more modern cabin, updated touchscreen technology, and a broader set of standard driver-assistance features.
Who it's for
The Compass suits someone who wants a manageable SUV for commuting, errands, and winter weather, with enough Jeep character for dirt roads and light adventures. Newer models fit buyers who want four-wheel drive without moving to a larger SUV, while Trailhawk shoppers place more value on trail use.
Jeep Compass lineup
Latitude is the everyday core of the lineup, and it became the starting trim for 2026; pick it for the straightforward Compass experience without an upscale or off-road focus. Limited has traditionally been the more comfort-oriented choice, making sense for shoppers who want a dressier Compass. Altitude versions have emphasized a darker, blacked-out appearance since they first joined the second-generation lineup, so they are mainly for buyers who prefer that look. Trailhawk, introduced with the second generation in 2017, is the distinct trail-focused model and the one to pick when off-road hardware matters more than added polish.
Jeep Compass generations
From 2009 to 2026, the Compass spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation — MP arrived for 2017, following the 1st Generation — MK (2007–2016).
2nd Generation — MP (2017–2026)
The second-generation Compass moved to a new platform with a more upscale cabin, larger touchscreen options, and a dedicated Trailhawk off-road model. A major 2022 refresh modernized the cabin and technology, while 2023 brought a turbo engine and standard four-wheel drive across the lineup.
1,458 In Stock
2026Trim changes
Sport is dropped, so Latitude becomes the starting trim. Trailhawk also gains more standard equipment.
2025Trim changes
Latitude Lux leaves the lineup. Latitude gains more standard comfort features.
2024Trim changes
The grille and wheel designs are revised, while the engine, transmission, and technology carry over.
2023Trim changes
A 200-horsepower turbo four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive become standard across the lineup.
2022Mid-cycle update
The Compass gets updated exterior styling, a redesigned cabin, a new touchscreen system, and more standard driver-assistance features.
2021Trim changes
The 80th Anniversary special edition joins the lineup. The manual transmission is dropped.
2020Trim changes
The North Edition joins the lineup, and some upper trims gain more comfort features.
2019Trim changes
Upland, Altitude, and High Altitude editions join the lineup. A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto becomes standard on Sport and Latitude.
2018Trim changes
The Altitude special edition joins the lineup, and Limited adds a front-wheel-drive version.
2017New generation
The redesigned Compass launches on a new platform with a more upscale cabin, newer transmissions, larger touchscreen options, and a Trailhawk model. Outgoing first-generation versions remain on sale briefly during the transition.
1st Generation — MK (2007–2016)
The original Compass was a compact, car-based Jeep crossover with four-cylinder engines and front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Its biggest changes were a cabin update for 2009, a major styling and suspension refresh for 2011, and a new six-speed automatic for most models in 2014.
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2016Trim changes
Sport SE and the 75th Anniversary edition join the lineup, while Limited is dropped. Bluetooth hands-free calling becomes standard.
2015
The High Altitude Edition joins the lineup with leather seating, a sunroof, and a power driver seat.
2014Mid-cycle update
A six-speed automatic replaces the old continuously variable transmission on most models. The grille, lights, interior trim, safety equipment, and cabin sound insulation are also updated.
2013
Minor fuel-economy and wheel changes arrive, but the engines, trims, and overall equipment remain largely the same.
2012Trim changes
The lineup is reorganized into Sport, Latitude, and Limited trims. The continuously variable transmission is also retuned for better response.
2011Mid-cycle update
The Compass gets new front and rear styling, a more refined cabin, retuned steering and suspension, and a more trail-focused off-road package.
2010
Active front head restraints become standard. Front-wheel-drive Sport models add a five-speed manual with the 2.0-liter engine.
2009Mid-cycle update
The dashboard, door panels, and center console are redesigned with better materials and more sound insulation.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Jeep Compass.
2026 Jeep Compass2025 Jeep Compass2024 Jeep Compass2023 Jeep Compass2022 Jeep Compass2021 Jeep Compass2020 Jeep Compass2019 Jeep Compass2018 Jeep Compass2017 Jeep Compass2016 Jeep Compass2015 Jeep Compass2014 Jeep Compass2013 Jeep Compass2012 Jeep Compass2011 Jeep Compass2010 Jeep Compass2009 Jeep Compass
Frequently asked questions
Is the Jeep Compass a small SUV or a larger family SUV?
The Compass is a small, four-door SUV with seating for five. Its compact footprint suits city driving and commuting, while its 4WD systems and Jeep-style capability give it more bad-weather and trail ability than a typical city crossover.
Does the Jeep Compass come as a hybrid?
No. U.S.-market Compass models from the first and second generations use gasoline engines rather than a hybrid system.
Does every Jeep Compass have 4WD?
No, not across every year. Four-wheel drive became standard throughout the lineup for 2023. Earlier Compass models included a mix of front-wheel-drive and 4WD versions, so check the specific used vehicle.
What engine does the Jeep Compass use?
Since 2023, the Compass has used a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbo engine with an eight-speed automatic. Earlier second-generation models mainly used a 2.4-liter engine, while first-generation versions used 2.0- and 2.4-liter engines.
How many generations of the Jeep Compass are there?
There are two U.S. generations. The first ran from 2007 into 2017. The second arrived during 2017 and continued through 2026, creating an unusual overlap when both old- and new-generation Compass models were sold under the same model year.
Who is the Jeep Compass a good fit for?
The Compass fits someone who wants an easy-to-park SUV for commuting, added confidence in poor weather, and enough trail ability for light adventures. It seats five without taking up the space of a larger Jeep.
What is the Jeep Compass towing capacity?
The latest turbo Compass is rated to tow up to 2,000 pounds. Do not assume that figure applies to every used Compass, because older examples used different engines and drivetrains.
Jeep Compass Reviews
What owners are saying about the Jeep Compass.
3.9
Jeep Compass
(3,088 reviews)
“We have had 2 now and have never had any issues with the vehicle. We have taken several long distance trips and had no issues”
“Overall a very good vehicle so far but a little noisy. Probably because it is a utility vehicle and that has to be remembered. Very happy thus far with my purchase.”
“Elect for premium bumpersRuns very economically Maneuverability is excellent Easy to park”
“I think this is a fun and safe vehicle. For me, the size is perfect for parking - whether at home or out.”
“The jeep compass drives smooth. Great in the snow and rain. I'm obsessed with the moon roof and overall interior/exterior. But most importantly I feel protected while driving in it.”
Sources
- jeep.com — 2026 / Compass / Capability
- jeep.com — 2026 / Compass / Faq
- jeep.com — 2025 / Compass
- jeep.com — 2025 / Compass / Faq
- jeep.com — 2025 / Compass / Design
- blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com — 03 / 15 / Authentic Jeep Brand Exterior And More Premium Design In The 2022 Jeep Compass
- blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com — 11 / 22 / 2023 Jeep Compass 4X4 Newly Equipped With Standard Advanced 2.0 Liter Turbocharged Engine For Optimal Performance
- blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com — 11 / 22 / 2023 Jeep Compass 4X4 Newly Equipped With Standard Advanced 2 0 Liter Turbocharged Engine For Optimal Performance
- blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com — 02 / 17 / Orders Now Open For New 2022 Jeep Compass Altitude Package
- osp.admin.mn.gov — A 175(5) / Current / JMSU1
- jeep.com — Pdf / eBrochure Jeep Compass Catalog (2018)
- jeep.com — Pdf / 2016 Jeep Compass eBrochure