2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was reminiscent of a smaller CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, essentially serving as a raised version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing distractions for taller drivers due to its slight curve. Inside, the cabin was both comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to its components. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. However, the infotainment system, while attractive, had a steep learning curve, prioritizing form over function.

The 2023 Jeep Compass, in contrast, embraced a refined design ethos, moving away from the rugged Jeep look. It shared its design language with larger Jeep models like the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The Compass featured new wheel designs for the Sport and Latitude models, with the Trailhawk's wheels painted gloss black. The interior was upscale, with a two-tone black and gray cabin accented by caramel highlights. The Limited trim, in particular, offered a luxurious feel, though the high price point was a concern. The Compass was roomy enough for four adults, with a focus on comfort and sophisticated digital displays.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Our test model featured the upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane. The power was channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, with a Sport mode enhancing throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's sporty ride was complemented by well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it resulted in a rough ride over potholes.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 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 improved performance. The Trailhawk version featured a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system with a 20:1 crawl ratio, enhancing its off-road capabilities. While the new engine transformed the Compass from gutless to gutsy, it wasn't as powerful as it could be, prioritizing fuel economy. The Compass averaged 23.8 mpg in varied driving conditions, slightly below the EPA rating of 27 mpg.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 20.2 cubic feet with the seats in use. The Turbo Premium Plus model included a power rear liftgate, adding convenience. The front seats featured a sliding center console cover, though it could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats offered solid headroom for short-to-medium trips but lacked the space of larger models like the CX-5.

The 2023 Jeep Compass accommodated adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone automatic climate control. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather available on higher trims. The Limited trim offered a luxurious feel, though the hard plastic edge of the center console was uncomfortable. The rear seat provided enough space for adults, with generous foot room and supportive seat cushions. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash. Controlled by a rotary dial and toggle buttons, the system lacked touch functionality, making it challenging to use. Inspired by older luxury-car systems, the setup was not user-friendly, especially when navigating Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The 2023 Jeep Compass boasted a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM services. The system could be paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The Alexa Built-in digital assistant was responsive and accurate, enhancing the user experience. The Compass also featured a parking assist system and a surround-view camera, though the vehicle's size made the parking assist less necessary.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came equipped with standard driver-assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking camera. The CX-30 earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

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. The Trailhawk, Limited, and High Altitude trims offered Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. The Compass had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, and the IIHS had incomplete test results, making it ineligible for a Top Safety Pick rating.