2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

In 2022, the Jeep Compass received exterior styling updates and new wheel designs. Despite these changes, it retained a similar look to its 2017 redesign, resembling a smaller version of the Grand Cherokee. The High Altitude test vehicle we examined had impressive 19-inch multi-spoke wheels painted in a dark, sparkly finish that matched its paint. This small SUV exuded an upscale aura, at least in appearance.

The interior was where the Compass made a more convincing argument as a premium SUV, especially in the High Altitude configuration. The new dashboard design featured updated digital instrumentation and infotainment systems, soft-touch surfaces, luxury-grade leather seats, and enhanced soundproofing, elevating its sophistication. The High Altitude is the highest-priced variant in the 2022 Compass lineup, starting from $26,020 and going up to $35,085 (excluding a $1,595 destination charge). Our test model, with all possible upgrades including standard AWD and several option packages, had an MSRP of $40,470.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, an all-new model, shared many design aspects with the previous year's extended-length Grand Cherokee L but was a two-row version. The Grand Cherokee featured time-honored Jeep design elements such as the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. It also drew inspiration from the 1963 Wagoneer with its forward-leaning grille, sleek beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. A black roof option and limited initial paint colors added a modern touch though more colors were promised.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee showcased a luxurious aura from the basic Laredo trim with cloth seats to the top-tier Summit Reserve trim. Every model offered a sense of quality, with higher trims boasting premium features like quilted leather seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the gloss black finish on some controls in the higher trims caused reflections that could be distracting. Overall, the Grand Cherokee presented a more upscale and versatile facade compared to the Compass.

The 2022 Jeep Compass housed a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 177 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 172 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. Dubbed the “Tigershark” engine, it lacked the vigor one would expect for a compact SUV. A turbocharger would have significantly improved its performance, especially for adventures in high-altitude areas. The engine was often noisy, especially at high revs, and the nine-speed automatic transmission it was paired with, although better than a CVT, was eager to upshift and reluctant to downshift, resulting in a busy and unrewarding drive experience. The AWD Compass had an EPA-rated fuel efficiency of 25 mpg combined, though our testing revealed an average of 23.8 mpg.

For off-road excursions or snowy conditions, the Compass had a ground clearance of 8.1 inches. The Trailhawk variant, with 8.6 inches of clearance and additional off-roading features, offered greater capability. However, the overall driving dynamics of the Compass needed significant improvement.

Conversely, the 2022 Grand Cherokee offered RWD or 4WD and came with either a V6 or V8 engine. The test models primarily had the standard 3.6-liter V6 engine, which generated 293 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm, with a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. The 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with 4WD and higher trims, produced 357 horsepower at 5,150 rpm and 390 pound-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds.

Three different 4WD systems offered varying levels of off-road capability. Quadra-Trac I was fully automatic, suitable for light off-roading and slippery conditions. Quadra-Trac II, available with Overland trim, added a two-speed transfer case for more challenging terrains. The most robust system, Quadra-Drive II, featured an electronic locking rear differential and an air suspension system, providing up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance and remarkable off-roading prowess.

The Grand Cherokee’s driving experience was superior to its longer sibling, feeling nimble and athletic. The V6 engine proved more efficient and less burdensome than the V8, which was powerful but thirsty. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, though the dial-style shifter was initially challenging to operate correctly.

Oddly, Jeep offered three SUVs, including the Compass, the Renegade, and the Cherokee, all with similar interior dimensions targeted at different segments. The Compass, smaller than the CX-5 but larger than the Encore GX, catered to those needing space for four adults and their luggage, though not much more. The Compass High Altitude’s interior, featuring eight-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats, provided a premium feel.

The redesign introduced a new dashboard with integrated air vents, a new steering wheel, and an optional digital instrument cluster, enhancing perceived quality. The interior's new center console provided increased storage, though the bin remained tiny. Cargo capacity was notable, offering 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with seats folded down, outperforming the Cherokee in this regard.

The Grand Cherokee offered superior driver and front passenger comfort across all trims, with advancements in visibility and interior quality. Higher trims featured heated and ventilated front seats, massaging seat functions, and a panoramic sunroof, while even the base Laredo provided good quality and comfort. The Grand Cherokee L offered more second-row legroom and cargo capacity due to its additional length.

The two-row Grand Cherokee provided 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, whereas the three-row Grand Cherokee L offered 46.9 cubic feet and 84.6 cubic feet, respectively.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, boasting a claimed five-fold improvement in responsiveness. Standard fare included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with an optional 10.1-inch version. The system supported multiple devices, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, satellite radio, voice recognition, and over-the-air updates.

Additional features included a navigation system, WiFi hotspot, wireless device charging, and optional nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. Despite its impressive responsiveness and accuracy, the voice recognition occasionally struggled with more complex commands.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee also embraced advanced technology with its Uconnect 5 system, offering an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.1-inch upgrade available on all but the base Laredo. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Sirius XM integration were standard. Upgraded features included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, head-up display, and an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen in front of the passenger for added convenience.

A 19-speaker McIntosh high-end audio system and dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration were also available. The system provided an intuitive interface, though the voice recognition system occasionally showed flaws.

The 2022 Jeep Compass' safety features were significantly improved, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Highway Assist, parallel and perpendicular parking assistance, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system were also available. However, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems had minor usability issues, and the forward-collision warning returned some false positives.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee featured advanced driver assistance systems, including Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance through Active Driving Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-centering assist. Intersection Collision Assist provided additional front cross-traffic warning, while the new safety structure comprising high-strength aluminum and steel aimed to improve crash protection. A hands-free Active Driving Assist was also on the horizon for 2022, promising less driver intervention on approved roads.