2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market since its North American debut in 1996, evolved significantly over its five generations. Initially embraced by young buyers as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 set the stage for a new category of "cute-utes," alongside competitors like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue. By 2022, the RAV4 had matured into a sophisticated crossover, often topping U.S. sales charts. Its exterior design, while blending with contemporary crossover aesthetics, featured distinctive angular wheel arches and expressive headlights, giving it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass embraced a refined design ethos, moving away from the rugged Jeep aesthetic. It shared design elements with larger Jeep models like the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, offering a more upscale appearance. The 2023 Compass introduced new wheel designs and special edition models, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Compass provided a comfortable environment for adults in both rows, with options for leather upholstery and advanced climate control systems. The Limited trim, in particular, offered a luxurious feel with sophisticated digital displays and metallic trim, though some hard plastic elements detracted from the overall experience. Despite its upscale ambitions, the Compass's pricing positioned it as an expensive choice in the small SUV segment.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth power delivery without turbo lag. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a similar engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and impressive fuel economy of 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 42 miles on electricity alone, achieving 94 MPGe. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and available all-wheel drive with Multi-Terrain Select for varied road conditions.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, transformed the Compass's performance. The Trailhawk version offered enhanced off-road capabilities with a low-range AWD system and increased ground clearance. Despite improvements, the Compass's engine prioritized fuel economy over power, achieving 27 mpg combined. While the new powertrain improved the driving experience, the Compass's tall and narrow design contributed to noticeable body motions on uneven surfaces. The Trailhawk excelled off-road but struggled with standard tires in challenging conditions.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered generous cargo space with 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models able to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with a comfortable front row and practical storage solutions throughout the cabin.

The 2023 Jeep Compass accommodated adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. It featured an air filtration system and available dual-zone climate control for added comfort. Depending on the trim, the Compass offered cloth or leather upholstery, with options for heated and ventilated seats. Interior storage was adequate, though the center armrest bin was small. The Compass provided 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. An adjustable load floor added versatility, and a foldable front passenger seat allowed for transporting longer items.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Higher trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology with multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a bird’s-eye view camera system.

The 2023 Jeep Compass boasted a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, an Alpine premium sound system, and Alexa Built-in technology. The Compass also featured a parking assist system and a surround-view camera, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the RAV4 Prime achieving a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

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. Higher trims offered Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. While NHTSA ratings were pending, the Compass previously earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.