2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a sophisticated design, riding on the proven Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. This midsize crossover SUV, measuring 186.6 inches in length, boasted a modern exterior with a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than rugged terrains. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials, a layered dash, and a well-placed touchscreen display. The front seats provided comfort and support, while the rear seats accommodated three adults with ease.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass adopted a refined design ethos, aligning with the larger Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models. The Compass featured new wheel designs and special edition models, with prices ranging from under $32,000 to over $40,000. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim, showcased a sophisticated interior with a two-tone cabin and metallic trim. However, the high price point of $45,800 made it less appealing compared to other small luxury SUVs. Despite its upscale appearance, the Compass struggled to justify its cost.

The 2022 Toyota Venza combined a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with three electric motors, delivering a total of 219 horsepower. This hybrid setup allowed for electric-only operation for short distances and offered Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to the Venza's agile handling and sprightly performance. While not designed for aggressive cornering, the Venza excelled as a midsize family hauler, providing a comfortable and efficient ride.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep Active Drive AWD, the Compass offered improved performance over previous models. The Trailhawk version featured enhanced off-road capabilities with a lifted suspension and specialized driving modes. However, the engine's power was limited by a focus on fuel economy, resulting in an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined. Despite improvements, the Compass still exhibited significant body motions on uneven surfaces and slow AWD engagement.

The 2022 Toyota Venza provided seating for five, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 45.2 inches of hip room, ensuring comfort for three adults. The cabin featured numerous convenience elements, including an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a spacious glove compartment. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack had minimal impact on cargo capacity, offering 28.8 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. Toyota prioritized a quiet cabin, incorporating sound-blocking materials for a serene driving experience.

The 2023 Jeep Compass accommodated adults in both rows, with standard air filtration and available dual-zone climate control. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather options available on higher trims. The Limited trim offered a luxurious feel, though the hard plastic edge of the center console was uncomfortable. Rear seat space was adequate, and the Compass provided 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Interior storage was limited, but a wireless charging pad was available.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure, offering over 500 miles of range on a full tank. The infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Limited trim added a nine-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Toyota Connected Services provided various connectivity options, and an Advanced Technology Package offered a head-up display and rain-sensing wipers.

The 2023 Jeep Compass came equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Uconnect 5 technology. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with SiriusXM and Alexa Built-in. The system offered over-the-air updates and paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel. The Limited trim included a nine-speaker Alpine sound system and a parking assist system. While the surround-view camera was useful, the parking assist was less necessary due to the Compass's compact size.

The 2022 Toyota Venza included the Toyota Star Safety System with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which offered forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with parking assist available on higher trims. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added drowsy driver detection and a rear-seat reminder system. Standard ADAS included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Available upgrades featured adaptive cruise control and Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. Our test vehicle's Highway Assist performed well, though it struggled in certain conditions. The Compass had not yet received NHTSA ratings, and its IIHS rating was incomplete, pending further testing.