2019 BMW X5 vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience despite its size and weight. BMW succeeded in this endeavor, prioritizing a smooth ride on pavement over off-road capabilities. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. It came with two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder and a 4.4-liter V8, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model started at $60,700, featuring AWD, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive safety suite. Various packages allowed for customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced climate controls. The xDrive50i model, priced at $75,750, included additional luxury features and a more powerful engine.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, reflecting the refined side of the Jeep brand, was available in four core trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. Starting at $22,280 for the Compass Sport with FWD, the lineup offered various packages and special editions. The Compass Limited with AWD, equipped with numerous options, reached a price of $39,755. Despite its handsome design, the Compass was marred by cost-cutting measures, such as low-quality materials and flimsy parts. However, it offered a comfortable interior with soft-touch surfaces and premium leather. The Compass was capable off-road, especially in Trailhawk trim, but the Limited model lacked some off-road features.

The 2019 BMW X5 impressed with its performance, particularly the xDrive40i's turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle accelerated swiftly, reaching 60 mph in just over 5 seconds, while the xDrive50i's V8 engine offered 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, achieving 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The X5's ride quality was enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform, combining steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for strength and reduced weight. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height, improving both comfort and aerodynamics.

In contrast, the 2020 Jeep Compass's 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, produced 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. However, it was criticized for being loud, slow, and inefficient, with a test average of 23.1 mpg. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the automatic engine stop/start system was inconvenient. The Compass's suspension managed body roll but allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness. While the Compass excelled off-road, particularly in Trailhawk trim, the Limited model's simpler AWD system was less capable.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design shifted to aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While spacious, the seats were uncomfortable without the optional Luxury Seating package. The X5 offered ample cargo space, with 33.9 cubic feet expandable to 72.3 cubic feet, and a towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, equipped with the Luxury Seat Group, provided premium leather, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The back seat was roomy, with air conditioning vents, a USB port, and a power outlet. Cargo space was 27.2 cubic feet, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet, though the spare tire and subwoofer reduced space. Interior storage was limited, with awkwardly positioned cupholders.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a disappointment, with gesture control and voice commands being imprecise. The iDrive interface was daunting but functional, while the Driving Assistance Plus package's semi-autonomous features were unreliable at high speeds. The Parking Assistant Plus package offered useful features like a 3D camera, and the Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound quality.

The 2020 Jeep Compass featured the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system was intuitive, though some features were buried in menus. Voice recognition worked well, and primary controls were separate from the display. The Alpine audio system delivered decent sound quality.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel. It received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. These systems performed adequately, though the adaptive cruise control was overly sensitive. The Compass received mixed ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance.