2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson presented a fresh design on a new platform, offering a long-wheelbase model in the U.S. with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front showcased Hyundai's new vehicle face, featuring a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. The illuminated lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The Tucson's side profile borrowed design elements from the Hyundai Elantra, with a silver D-pillar creating a floating roof effect. At the rear, the Tucson sported LED-illuminated toothy taillights, except for the base model, giving it a standout appearance among compact SUVs. Depending on the trim, the Tucson rode on 17- or 19-inch wheels, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, skid plates, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with standard stain- and odor-resistant cloth seats, and an uncluttered dashboard design that enhanced the sense of spaciousness.

The 2023 Jeep Compass adopted a more refined and upscale design, moving away from the rugged Jeep aesthetic. It shared design cues with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families. The Compass Sport and Latitude models received a new 17-inch wheel design, while the Trailhawk's wheels were painted gloss black. The Compass lineup included five core trim levels and special editions, with prices ranging from under $32,000 to over $40,000. Our Limited test vehicle, priced at $45,800, featured Granite Crystal paint, multi-spoke 19-inch wheels, and a two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents. The interior boasted sophisticated digital displays, metallic trim, and low-gloss plastics, giving it a luxury feel. However, the high price point made it less competitive compared to small luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivered a combined fuel economy of 28 mpg. The hybrid powertrain, with 226 total system horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, provided a more engaging driving experience. The Tucson Hybrid achieved 37 mpg combined, outperforming competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. All-wheel drive was standard on the hybrid and optional on ICE models, offering impressive off-road capabilities. The forthcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 pound-feet of torque.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The engine's peak torque was available from 1,750 to 4,250 rpm, with maximum horsepower at 5,000 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard Jeep Active Drive AWD, the Compass offered three driving modes: Auto, Snow, and Sand/Mud. The Trailhawk model featured a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system with a 20:1 crawl ratio and additional off-road enhancements. The Compass achieved a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg, though real-world testing showed slightly lower figures. The new turbo engine improved the driving experience, making the Compass more responsive and refined. However, the AWD system was slow to engage, and the Trailhawk's off-road performance was limited by its tires.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson provided a spacious and well-appointed interior, comparable to top competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. The Tucson's new platform allowed for increased passenger and cargo space, with a 74.8 cubic-foot cargo area. The rear seats offered ample legroom, and a 60-40 split-folding bench seat added versatility. A hands-free liftgate was available on mid-grade models and up.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a comfortable interior for four adults, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone automatic climate control. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather seats available on higher trims. The Limited test vehicle featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat provided adequate space for adults, with generous foot room and supportive cushions. Cargo space was competitive, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen, though it required wired connections for smartphone integration. The system included a digital instrument cluster and dual-zone automatic climate control. The touchpoints on the center console were responsive, but the narrow steering wheel controls were less user-friendly.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered Bluetooth pairing for two devices, SiriusXM satellite radio, and over-the-air updates. Higher trims included a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, embedded navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. The Alexa Built-in digital assistant provided seamless voice control, and the parking assist system offered autonomous steering for parking.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Optional features included blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. Hyundai offered a comprehensive warranty package, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Available upgrades included adaptive cruise control and Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. The Compass had not been rated by the NHTSA, and the IIHS had incomplete test results. The previous model qualified for a Top Safety Pick rating, but the 2023 model was ineligible until further testing.