2021 Lexus NX vs 2022 Jeep Compass

Jeep now considers itself a premium brand. That means it prices its vehicles a little higher than the equivalents offered by mainstream nameplates but still below the traditional luxury marques.

In exchange for this price premium, Jeep offers class-leading off-roading capabilities, a Jeep Wave benefits program, admission into “the club” of Jeep owners, and, with some of its models, high-end trim levels loaded with upscale materials, finishes, and features.

This year, Jeep improves the 2022 Compass in an effort to better qualify it as a premium entry. Based on a week spent in the ritzy Compass High Altitude, we think the SUV is better it was than before. But does it meet the expected standard? Not quite.