2021 Audi Q5 vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2020 Jeep Compass was a handsome SUV that drew inspiration from the refined Grand Cherokee, offering a more upscale styling compared to its rugged sibling, the Wrangler. It was available in four core trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk, with various packages and special editions to enhance its appeal. The Compass started at $22,280 for the Sport trim with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, while the top-tier Limited trim with all-wheel drive and the High Altitude upgrade could reach $32,645. Our test vehicle, a Compass Limited with numerous options, totaled $39,755, showcasing Jeep's ability to offer premium features in the small SUV segment. However, despite its attractive design and features, the Compass was marred by cost-cutting measures that detracted from its overall appeal.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied Audi's design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, complemented by crisp character lines and bold taillights. The Q5's interior was equally impressive, boasting a modern and uncluttered design with high-quality materials like real wood and metal. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy access, and the second row offered ample space and comfort. The Q5 PHEV variant added S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, further elevating its aesthetic appeal with standard 19-inch wheels and optional 20-inch wheels.

The 2020 Jeep Compass was powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, which produced 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Despite these figures, the engine was criticized for being loud, slow, and inefficient, with the test vehicle averaging 23.1 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 25 mpg combined rating. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the automatic engine stop/start system could be inconvenient. While the Compass's suspension managed body roll well, it allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness, resulting in a less enjoyable driving experience. However, the Compass excelled in off-road capabilities, especially in the Trailhawk trim, with features like added ground clearance and an Active Drive Low AWD system.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV took performance to another level with a combined output of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, thanks to its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and electric motor. This setup allowed the Q5 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds, while achieving an impressive 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with a Level 2 charger. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive, offering various driving modes for efficiency and performance. The Q5's handling was commendable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking, making it a fun and efficient crossover to drive.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered a comfortable interior with the Luxury Seat Group, which included premium leather, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The back seat was spacious, providing air conditioning vents, a USB charging port, and a power outlet for rear passengers. Cargo space was 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, storage space inside the cabin was limited, and the cupholders were awkwardly positioned.

The 2021 Audi Q5 excelled in interior space and functionality, with smart packaging that allowed the battery pack to be stored under the luggage compartment floor. It offered 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The Q5's interior was thoughtfully designed, with well-placed storage compartments and an uncluttered layout.

The 2020 Jeep Compass featured the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also offered SiriusXM Guardian services, navigation, and an Alpine premium audio system. While Uconnect was intuitive and easy to use, some features were buried in menus. The voice recognition system worked well, but navigation required specific prompts.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV boasted the latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch instrument cluster. The system offered three customizable views and was paired with LED ambient lighting for a futuristic feel. The Prestige Package included navigation, which optimized fuel consumption in hybrid mode. The Q5 also featured an Integrated Toll Module and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered a range of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, the adaptive cruise control was overly sensitive, and the lane-keeping assist could be intrusive. The Compass received Good ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance, and mixed ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV shared safety features with the gasoline model, which received top ratings from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. The Q5 included six airbags, Audi Pre Sense, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Available driver-assistance features included adaptive cruise control, park steering assist, and a top-view camera system.