2022 Jeep Compass vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Honda CR-V, while functional, did not stand out in terms of exterior design. Its styling was similar to many other compact crossovers, with few distinguishing features apart from a unique grille and some chromed plastic accents. The color palette offered eight options, but most were variations of gray, black, and white, with only a couple of vibrant choices like Aegean Blue Metallic and Radiant Red Metallic, which were limited to higher trims. Inside, the CR-V offered a modern look with angular seats and a choice of black, gray, or ivory cloth or leather, depending on the trim. However, competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson provided more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Compass maintained a familiar exterior design reminiscent of a smaller Grand Cherokee, with updates like new wheel designs. The High Altitude model featured 19-inch multi-spoke wheels and a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the Compass impressed with a new dashboard design, luxury-grade leather seats, and enhanced sound deadening, especially in the High Altitude trim. The lineup ranged from the base Sport to the premium High Altitude, with prices starting at $26,020. The High Altitude model, equipped with all-wheel drive and various option packages, reached an MSRP of $40,470, offering a more upscale interior experience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was not known for thrilling performance but offered smooth and steady acceleration with its 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It reached 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds, which was competitive within its class. The CR-V featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provided a consistent driving experience, though it lacked the engagement of competitors with conventional transmissions. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear, ensured decent handling and ride quality.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 177 horsepower, lacked the acceleration prowess of some rivals. The engine, dubbed "Tigershark," 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 aimed to maximize fuel efficiency but often resulted in a busy and unrewarding powertrain character. The Compass offered Jeep Selec-Terrain with various driving modes and an Active Drive AWD system for off-road capability. However, the drivetrain was considered the least appealing aspect of the Compass, with a relatively slow automatic stop/start system and a disappointing acceleration experience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The cargo area was accessible through different tailgate options, depending on the trim level. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's interior was designed to comfortably fit five passengers and their gear, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned as a smaller compact SUV, provided enough space for four adults and their luggage. The High Altitude trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. The redesigned dashboard and Uconnect 5 infotainment system enhanced the interior's perceived quality. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. A hands-free power liftgate was available for added convenience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V offered a basic 5-inch color screen on the base LX trim, while other trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim boasting a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant, with USB ports and a wireless phone charger available on higher trims.

The 2022 Jeep Compass introduced the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was significantly faster and more responsive than its predecessor. An 8.4-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 10.1-inch option available. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with a WiFi hotspot and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. Voice recognition was generally accurate, though it had some limitations in specific scenarios.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features, was standard across all trims, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance as standard. Additional features like Highway Assist and a 360-degree camera system were available. However, the Compass had not yet received updated safety ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of review, and some systems exhibited occasional false positives.