2022 Jeep Compass vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its rugged origins, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Initially designed as a utilitarian vehicle, it had become a high-end SUV with a starting price of $92,000, which could soar to $250,000 with various upgrades. The test model, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim, showcasing a timeless design with hallmark features like blacked-out windshield pillars and large nameplate lettering. Inside, the Range Rover exuded luxury with its Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although its infotainment system was not as advanced as newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Compass, despite its exterior updates, retained a familiar look reminiscent of a shrunken Grand Cherokee. The High Altitude test vehicle, with its 19-inch wheels and upscale appearance, offered a more convincing premium feel inside. The redesigned dashboard, digital instrumentation, and luxury-grade leather seats elevated its sophistication. The Compass lineup ranged from $26,020 to $35,085, with the High Altitude model reaching $40,470. It came equipped with standard AWD and various option packages, enhancing its appeal as a premium SUV.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring its legendary off-road capabilities. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, while the SUV's weight and tall center of gravity required a measured approach on winding roads. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. Despite its "Tigershark" moniker, the engine lacked acceleration prowess, and a turbocharger would have improved performance, especially at higher altitudes. The nine-speed automatic transmission aimed to maximize fuel efficiency but resulted in a busy powertrain character. The Compass averaged 23.8 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 25 mpg. With 8.1 inches of ground clearance, it handled light off-roading well, but the drivetrain was the least appealing aspect of the vehicle.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers still found entry challenging. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in an uncomfortable seating position. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for a small center-console bin. The cargo area offered 25 cubic feet of space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet, but required careful packing to fit larger items.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned as a smaller compact SUV, provided ample space for four adults and their luggage. The High Altitude model featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The redesigned dashboard and Uconnect 5 infotainment system improved perceived quality. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet, surpassing the more expensive Cherokee model.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while not entirely intuitive, allowed for extensive customization. The system's dual 10-inch touchscreens posed a distraction while driving, but touch-sensing steering wheel controls and voice assistants helped mitigate this. The waterproof Activity Key wristband and iGuide smartphone app added convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was five times faster than its predecessor. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with over-the-air updates ensuring longevity. The system offered a navigation option, WiFi hotspot, and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. The voice recognition system was fast and accurate, though it struggled with specific requests. Overall, Uconnect 5 impressed with its speed and functionality.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came equipped with essential safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, offering forward-collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring as standard. Highway Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance, was set to be added later. The Compass experienced some false positives with its forward-collision warning system, and the adaptive cruise control struggled with smooth acceleration.