2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Jeep Compass

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had undergone significant updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a refined version of its predecessors, offering a luxury level of refinement that BMW had previously struggled to achieve in its smaller SUVs. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while its interior maintained the brand's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was noted for its functionality. The 2021 model offered various trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M available separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with numerous options for customization.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Compass, despite receiving exterior styling updates and new wheel designs, retained much of its appearance from the 2017 redesign. The Compass, particularly in the High Altitude trim, presented an upscale, compact Jeep look with 19-inch multi-spoke wheels. Inside, the 2022 Compass made a more convincing case as a premium SUV, especially in the High Altitude specification. It featured a new dashboard design, updated digital instrumentation, luxury-grade leather seats, and enhanced sound deadening, elevating its sophistication. The Compass lineup began with the base Sport trim and progressed through Latitude, Latitude Lux, Limited, Trailhawk, and High Altitude models, with prices ranging from $26,020 to $35,085, excluding destination charges. The High Altitude test vehicle came with standard all-wheel drive and comprehensive upgrade packages, resulting in an MSRP of $40,470.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the sDrive30i and xDrive30i, both equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive, providing solid acceleration for city and highway driving. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range and recharging times of 3.5 hours with a 240-volt charger or nearly 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking a performance-oriented experience, the M40i offered a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, delivering robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The X3 M performance model, with 473 horsepower, catered to those with a need for speed and family space.

In comparison, the 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 172 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. Dubbed the "Tigershark" engine, it lacked the accelerative prowess of its competitors. A turbocharger would have significantly improved its performance, especially for those planning mountain adventures. The engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for all-wheel-drive models, while front-wheel-drive versions had a six-speed automatic. The transmission prioritized fuel efficiency, resulting in a busy and unrewarding powertrain character. The automatic stop/start system was slow to re-engage, leading to hard drivetrain engagement. The Compass offered Jeep Selec-Terrain with Auto, Snow, and Sand/Mud modes, and the Active Drive AWD system could send power to the rear wheels when needed. The EPA estimated 25 mpg in combined driving, but testing averaged 23.8 mpg. The Compass AWD had 8.1 inches of ground clearance, suitable for light off-roading, while the Trailhawk trim offered enhanced off-road capabilities. The Compass High Altitude's 19-inch wheels improved grip, but the suspension struggled with uneven pavement, revealing its dated status.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided impressive interior space, with up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.7 cubic feet with them in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 offered ample headroom and legroom for front passengers, with a commanding driving position. The rear seats were comfortable for adults on longer trips. The interior featured real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned among Jeep's similarly sized SUVs, offered enough space for four adults and their luggage, though it lacked extra room. The High Altitude trim enhanced its premium appeal with features like eight-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The Elite Interior Group package added premium leather upholstery and contrast stitching. A dual-pane panoramic sunroof and redesigned dashboard with a new Uconnect 5 infotainment screen improved perceived quality. The center console offered increased storage, though the bin beneath the armrest remained small. The Compass provided 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the seat folded, surpassing the more expensive Cherokee model.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use compared to other luxury systems. It offered both touch operation and a central dial, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was available, allowing basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who gesticulate while speaking.

The 2022 Jeep Compass introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, five times faster than its predecessor. An 8.4-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 10.1-inch upgrade available. Uconnect 5 supported dual Bluetooth device pairing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, and voice text-to-reply. Over-the-air updates kept the system current. Additional features included navigation, connected services, a WiFi hotspot, Alexa Built-In, and a wireless charging pad. The nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system was an upgrade option. The voice recognition system was fast and accurate, though it struggled with specific requests like finding the nearest hospital. Overall, Uconnect 5 impressed but wasn't as user-friendly as the best systems in the industry.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, with standard forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Highway Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance, was to be added later in the model year. A parallel and perpendicular parking assistance system and a 360-degree surround-view camera system were available. During testing, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems generally worked well, though the lane-keep assist was overly insistent at lower speeds. The forward-collision warning system occasionally gave false positives, and the adaptive cruise control struggled with smooth acceleration. As of the review, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available, though the NHTSA carried over a three-star rollover resistance rating, and Jeep needed to improve headlight performance based on 2021 scores.