2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Jeep Compass, despite receiving exterior styling updates and new wheel designs, retained much of its familiar look since its 2017 redesign. It resembled a smaller version of the Grand Cherokee, with our High Altitude test vehicle featuring attractive 19-inch multi-spoke wheels that matched its upscale appearance. Inside, the Compass High Altitude impressed with a new dashboard design, updated digital instrumentation, and luxury-grade leather seats, enhancing its premium SUV appeal. The lineup ranged from the base Sport trim to the High Altitude model, with prices starting at $26,020 and reaching $40,470 with all available upgrades.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a mature crossover SUV, continued to build on its legacy since its 2019 redesign. While its exterior styling blended with current crossover designs, closer inspection revealed angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a distinctive look. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. The Adventure-trim test vehicle showcased a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern throughout the cabin, adding a unique touch to its design. The RAV4's fit-and-finish elevated its overall quality, making it a popular choice among SUV buyers.

The 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. Despite its "Tigershark" moniker, the engine lacked the power to compete with other SUVs, and its performance was further hindered by a nine-speed automatic transmission that prioritized fuel efficiency over responsiveness. The Compass averaged 23.8 mpg in testing, slightly below the EPA's 25 mpg estimate. While the Compass offered decent off-road capabilities with its 8.1 inches of ground clearance and Jeep Selec-Terrain system, its driving dynamics needed improvement, with a bouncy ride and dated suspension.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4 delivered smooth and responsive performance, achieving up to 30 mpg combined in FWD models. The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime models offered impressive fuel economy and additional power, with the Prime capable of 42 miles on electricity alone. The RAV4's car-like handling, independent suspension, and AWD options with Multi-Terrain Select made it a versatile and efficient choice for various driving conditions.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned as a smaller compact SUV, offered enough space for four adults and their luggage. The High Altitude model featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, enhancing its premium feel. The redesigned dashboard and Uconnect 5 infotainment system improved perceived quality, while the cargo area provided 27.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered generous interior space with 37.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RAV4's towing capacity varied by model, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample legroom and storage options, with a roomy center console and multiple cupholders. The RAV4's interior design prioritized comfort and practicality, making it a suitable choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response times and customization options. Standard features included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch upgrade available. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. While the voice recognition system was generally accurate, it struggled with specific requests, and the overall user experience could be improved.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 9-inch upgrade available on higher trims. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, along with a six-speaker audio system. The RAV4 Prime offered advanced technology, such as a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch head-up display. The RAV4's technology package provided a comprehensive and user-friendly experience, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring as standard. Additional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. However, the Compass received mixed feedback on its safety systems, with some false positives and overly aggressive lane-keep assist. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. Higher trims offered blind-spot monitoring and parking assist with automatic braking. The RAV4 received high safety ratings, earning an IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star rating from NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.