2019 INFINITI QX50 vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 was wider and taller than its predecessor, offering two extra inches of ground clearance and more interior space. The trunk provided 31.4 cubic feet of space behind modular rear seats that both slid and reclined. Despite the increased cargo space, rear legroom remained ample, even for a 6’4” individual. However, the panoramic sunroof brought the headliner uncomfortably close to taller passengers' heads. The redesigned interior was spacious, attractive, and filled with high-quality materials, featuring a new infotainment system. The cabin was exceptionally quiet, thanks to a noise-canceling system, making highway conversations easy and enjoyable.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, reflecting the refined side of the Jeep brand, was a handsome SUV available in four core trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. Prices started at $22,280 for the base Sport trim with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, while the top-tier High Altitude upgrade for the Compass Limited with all-wheel drive was priced from $32,645. The test vehicle, a Compass Limited with AWD, was loaded with options, including a power panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and premium sound system, totaling $39,755. Despite its high price, the Compass offered soft-touch surfaces, premium leather, and sophisticated technology, though it also had some low-rent plastic pieces and flimsy parts that detracted from its overall appeal.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the world’s first mass-produced variable-compression engine. This innovative engine could vary its compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1, aiming for either maximum power or efficiency. Despite this, the engine's 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque resulted in a slower 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds compared to the outgoing V6. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a significant drawback, often bogging down and then surging, making city driving a challenge. The QX50’s EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 city and 31 highway mpg was not particularly impressive, and real-world testing yielded only 24 mpg. The ride prioritized comfort over sportiness, but the Direct Adaptive Steering system felt inconsistent and disconnected.

The 2020 Jeep Compass was powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. However, the engine was loud, slow, and thirsty, with sluggish acceleration and nearly non-existent passing power. The test vehicle averaged 23.1 mpg, falling short of the EPA’s combined rating of 25 mpg. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly and resisted downshifts, while the automatic engine stop/start system compromised air conditioning performance on warm days. The Compass’s suspension controlled body roll well but allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness. The steering was heavy and vague, and the brake pedal was overly sensitive. However, the Compass excelled off-road, especially in Trailhawk trim, with added ground clearance and an Active Drive Low AWD system.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50’s interior was a mixed bag. While the fit and finish were high quality, and the materials were pleasing, the dashboard was cluttered with too many controls. The infotainment system suffered from input delays, particularly in the navigation system. The shifter design was also problematic, with the “PARK” position replaced by a button behind the shifter, leading to potential safety concerns. Despite these issues, the QX50 offered plenty of room and a generally high-quality interior.

The 2020 Jeep Compass test vehicle featured the new-for-2020 Luxury Seat Group, adding premium leather, ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a memory function for the driver’s settings. The back seat was roomy, with air conditioning vents, a USB charging port, and a 115-volt power outlet for rear passengers. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the back seat folded down, beating both the Jeep Renegade and Cherokee in terms of volume. However, the optional spare tire and Alpine subwoofer housing took up some cargo space, and the cabin had limited storage room and awkwardly positioned cupholders.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered a wealth of technology, especially in the top-tier Essential trim. The $2,000 ProActive package included intelligent cruise control, blind-spot intervention, lane-departure warning and intervention, and ProPilot assist. However, these features were only available in the Essential trim, starting at $45,900. The base QX50 was well-equipped with technology, but the infotainment system’s frustrations detracted from the overall experience.

The 2020 Jeep Compass featured an excellent Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and 4G LTE WiFi. The system was intuitive and easy to use, though some features were buried in menus. The voice recognition system worked well for most commands, and primary stereo and climate controls were separated from the display. The test vehicle also had a navigation system and an Alpine premium audio system, delivering decent sound quality for the segment.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50’s safety features were primarily available in the top-tier Essential trim with the ProActive package. However, the QX50 had not been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, available even in the base Sport trim through the Safety and Security Group and the Advanced Safety Group. These included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic warning. The Compass earned Good ratings in most IIHS tests, except for headlight performance, and received a mix of three-star, four-star, and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.