2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2020 Jeep Compass was a handsome SUV, reflecting the refined side of the Jeep brand, much like the Grand Cherokee. It was available in four core trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk, with various packages and special edition trim upgrades to enhance the lineup. The base model started at $22,280, while the more luxurious High Altitude upgrade for the Compass Limited was priced from $32,645 with all-wheel drive. The test vehicle, a 2020 Compass Limited with AWD, was equipped with numerous options, including a power panoramic sunroof and a premium sound system, totaling $39,755. Despite its upscale features, the Compass had some cost-cutting measures, such as low-rent glossy plastic pieces, which detracted from its overall appeal. However, it was a significant improvement over the original Compass model.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 had a more traditional SUV styling, with a tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, fitting well with the rest of the Volvo lineup. The XC40 Recharge, the electric variant, featured a blanked-off grille and model-specific alloy wheels, distinguishing it from the gasoline models. Underneath, it shared the Compact Modular Architecture platform with the Polestar 2, accommodating both gasoline and electric powertrains. The interior was minimalist yet premium, with high-quality materials like Nappa leather and Nubuck textile. The design was coherent, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents blending seamlessly. Unlike many competitors, Volvo maintained a high standard of interior design, offering a luxurious feel without compromising on quality.

The 2020 Jeep Compass was powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, producing 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Despite these figures, the engine was loud, slow, and fuel-thirsty, with the test vehicle averaging 23.1 mpg, below the EPA rating of 25 mpg. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the automatic engine stop/start system could be inconvenient. The Compass's suspension managed body roll but allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness. While it offered decent off-road capability, especially in Trailhawk trim, the Compass Limited test vehicle lacked some off-road features, though it handled moderately difficult trails without issues.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 had 187 horsepower, while the AWD T5 had 248 hp. The Recharge featured dual electric motors, providing 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, with a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, emphasizing luxury and comfort over performance. It offered excellent ride quality, even on rough roads, and was capable of one-pedal driving. The Recharge also had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, a rarity among electric cars.

The 2020 Jeep Compass test vehicle featured the Luxury Seat Group, adding premium leather, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The back seat was roomy, with air conditioning vents and a USB charging port 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, the optional spare tire and Alpine subwoofer reduced luggage space. Interior storage was limited, with awkwardly positioned cupholders.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge had no difference in passenger or cargo space compared to gasoline models, but it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y. Clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin and large door bins, compensated for the lack of space. The center console was designed to hold a phone securely, with an optional wireless charging pad. However, second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system was intuitive, with appealing graphics, though some features were buried in menus. Voice recognition worked well, and drivers could adjust stereo and climate controls using voice commands. Overall, Uconnect impressed for the segment.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, with Google Assistant and Google Maps built-in. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Recharge models had OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. The lack of a start button and the potential for a Digital Key feature added to the modern feel of the XC40.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control could be overly sensitive, and the lane-keeping assist was sometimes too insistent. The Compass received Good ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance, and mixed ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The XC40 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, with additional options available. The Recharge model included Volvo's latest sensor suite, allowing for future advancements in driver aids.