2019 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was a rugged SUV that stayed true to its off-road roots, with a design that was more about function than form. Its aggressive front end and large tires were not just for show; they were essential for its off-road capabilities. The 4Runner's design was a throwback to its origins, with features like a power up/down rear window reminiscent of the first-generation model. Despite a refresh in 2015, the interior remained dated, with basic features like an 8-way power driver’s seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 4Runner offered several trims, from the base SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro, each catering to different needs but maintaining a focus on ruggedness and utility.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, in contrast, was a more refined SUV, drawing inspiration from the Grand Cherokee's upscale styling. It was available in four core trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk, with various packages and special editions to enhance its appeal. The Compass was priced competitively, starting at $22,280 for the base model, with the option to upgrade to a fully loaded Limited trim for $39,755. While the Compass offered a range of appealing upgrades, it was not without its drawbacks, such as cost-cutting measures that affected the overall quality. However, it was a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a more comfortable and stylish ride.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This setup, though dated, was reliable and capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. The 4Runner's off-road prowess was enhanced by features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select system, and crawl control, making it a formidable off-road vehicle. However, its fuel efficiency was lacking, with 4WD models achieving just 17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

The 2020 Jeep Compass featured a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, delivering 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Despite its name, the engine was underwhelming, with sluggish acceleration and a noisy operation. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the vehicle averaged 23.1 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating. The Compass's suspension provided decent body roll control but allowed too much vertical motion, impacting ride comfort. While the Trailhawk trim offered respectable off-road capabilities, the Limited trim's simpler AWD system was less impressive.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious interior, with ample head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Its fully enclosed cabin provided significant cargo space, boasting nearly 90 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This made it a practical choice for those needing extra room for gear and passengers. Despite its dated interior, the 4Runner's simplicity was an advantage for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy-to-use controls and a rugged design.

The 2020 Jeep Compass, equipped with the Luxury Seat Group, provided a comfortable and upscale interior with features like ventilated front seats and a power-adjustable passenger seat. The back seat was roomy, offering amenities like air conditioning vents and a USB charging port. However, its cargo capacity was limited to 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than some competitors. The cabin's storage space was also limited, with awkwardly positioned cupholders adding to the inconvenience.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Entune system with navigation and Siri Eyes Free was straightforward but outdated, with small fonts and limited connectivity options. This simplicity might have appealed to those who preferred less interaction with technology, but it was a drawback for tech-savvy consumers.

The 2020 Jeep Compass excelled in technology, offering the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE WiFi connectivity. The system was intuitive and featured appealing graphics, though some functions were buried in menus. The voice recognition system worked well, and the separation of stereo and climate controls from the display was a plus. Overall, Uconnect was impressive for the segment, providing a modern and user-friendly experience.

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner's safety features were minimal, with standard airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. It lacked modern driver-assistance technologies, making it less family-friendly. The 4Runner received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA but only 3 stars in the rollover test, highlighting its limitations in safety.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, available even on the base Sport trim. These included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. While the systems performed adequately, some, like the adaptive cruise control, were overly sensitive. The Compass received Good ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance, and mixed ratings from the NHTSA, reflecting its overall safety performance.