2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that closely resembled its sibling, the Encore, with its trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and high beltline. It featured a slightly longer wheelbase, giving it a more elongated appearance compared to the Encore. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package enhanced its aesthetic appeal with body-color moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather seats in higher trims, though some controls were cumbersome.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass adopted a more refined and upscale design, aligning with the larger Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models. It featured new wheel designs for various trims and offered a range of special editions. The Compass Limited trim, with its Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, exuded a sophisticated look. Inside, the two-tone cabin with caramel accents and digital displays provided a premium feel, though the high price tag raised some eyebrows.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter with 155 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The 1.3-liter engine paired with a CVT provided adequate power, though it was a bit noisy. The ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise and vibration levels. The Encore GX was not designed for off-roading, handling only light gravel and dirt paths.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Compass offered three driving modes and a Trailhawk version for off-roading. The new engine improved performance, though it prioritized fuel economy over power. The Compass handled well on various terrains, but its tall and narrow design led to some body motion on uneven surfaces.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, provided ample front-seat headroom and legroom. Rear-seat space was tighter, and cargo capacity measured 23.5 cubic feet, expanding to 50.2 cubic feet with seats folded. The two-level cargo floor and hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2023 Jeep Compass accommodated adults comfortably in both rows, with standard air filtration and available dual-zone climate control. The Limited trim offered leather seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Cargo space was competitive, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with seats folded. The adjustable load floor and foldable front passenger seat enhanced versatility.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX featured an eight-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Safety features included blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. The Advanced Technology package added a head-up display and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layouts.

The 2023 Jeep Compass boasted a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless smartphone integration and over-the-air updates. The Limited trim included a digital instrumentation panel, navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The parking assist system and surround-view camera added convenience, while the Alexa Built-in technology offered seamless voice control.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assistance features and Teen Driver technology. It earned five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though headlight ratings varied by trim.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added drowsy driver detection and rear-seat reminder systems. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Highway Assist was available on higher trims. NHTSA ratings were pending, and the Compass was ineligible for the IIHS Top Safety Pick until further testing.