2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee, despite its age, maintained a timeless design with its classic 7-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a variety of aluminum wheel designs. It was offered in multiple trims, each catering to different preferences, from style to off-road capability, luxury, and performance. The Limited X version, priced at over $50,000, featured unique design elements and an upscale interior with perforated leather and special trim pieces. However, the interior quality was marred by hard plastic panels and some build quality issues, which detracted from the overall experience.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, reflecting the refined side of the Jeep brand, was a handsome SUV available in four core trims with various packages and special editions. Starting at $22,280, it offered a range of upgrades, including the High Altitude package for the Limited trim. The test vehicle, priced at $39,755, was equipped with numerous options, though it lacked the optional 19-inch wheels. While the Compass offered appealing upgrades and soft-touch surfaces, it was also plagued by cost-cutting measures that affected its overall appeal. Despite these drawbacks, it was a significant improvement over its predecessor.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower. For those seeking more power, there were V8 options, including a 707-hp supercharged V8 in the Trackhawk. The Limited X test vehicle featured a Quadra-Drive II 4WD system, providing excellent off-road capability. However, the added weight and driveline friction impacted fuel economy, with real-world figures falling short of the EPA ratings. On-road, the Grand Cherokee delivered robust acceleration and better-than-expected handling, though brake performance was a concern during extended downhill driving.

The 2020 Jeep Compass was powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower. Despite its name, the Tigershark engine was neither aggressive nor efficient, with sluggish acceleration and a disappointing 23.1 mpg average fuel economy. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the automatic engine stop/start system was intrusive. While the Compass's suspension controlled body roll, it allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness. Off-road, the Compass, especially in Trailhawk trim, offered decent capability, but the Limited test vehicle lacked some of the more advanced off-road features.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee, as a midsize SUV, provided ample space for a family, with comfortable power-adjustable front seats. However, rear passengers faced discomfort from hard plastic front-seatback panels. Storage space was limited, with modest cargo capacity of 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, equipped with the Luxury Seat Group, offered premium leather, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The back seat was roomy, with air conditioning vents and power outlets for rear passengers. Cargo space was 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, interior storage was limited, and the optional spare tire and subwoofer housing reduced cargo space.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an upgraded Uconnect system available on higher trims. This system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The voice recognition system was excellent, and the 9-speaker Alpine audio system provided good sound quality, with a 19-speaker Harman Kardon system available on higher trims.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered an 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE WiFi connectivity. The system was intuitive, though some features were buried in menus. Voice recognition worked well, and the Alpine audio system delivered decent sound quality. Overall, Uconnect impressed with its user-friendly interface and functionality.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered modern driver-assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, its safety ratings were concerning, with Marginal and Poor ratings from the IIHS for frontal-impact protection and a 3-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2020 Jeep Compass extended its safety features to the base Sport trim, with options for adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. While these systems performed adequately, the adaptive cruise control was overly sensitive. The Compass earned Good ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance, and mixed ratings from the NHTSA.