2023 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over from the previous year with only minor modifications, as Volkswagen had already made significant updates to the 2021 model. The lineup was simplified to include SE, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line trims. Most models came with more standard features than before. The pricing ranged from $34,355 to $51,505, with a $1,195 destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, with additional features, brought the price to $53,790. The Atlas had a big and boxy design, with 21-inch wheels on the SEL Premium R-Line trim enhancing its upscale look. However, the interior, while simple and premium in design, used low-cost materials, which was disappointing for a vehicle priced near $54,000.

The 2023 Jeep Compass adopted a more refined and upscale design, moving away from the rugged Jeep aesthetic. It shared design elements with larger Jeep models like the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The Compass lineup included five core trims and several special editions, with prices ranging from just under $32,000 to over $40,000. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim, was priced at $45,800, including destination charges. The Compass Limited, with its Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, resembled a smaller Grand Cherokee. Inside, the two-tone cabin with caramel accents and digital displays offered a sophisticated feel. However, the high price made it less competitive compared to small luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for the SE, SE with Technology, and SEL trims, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine required premium fuel for optimal performance and had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 22-23 mpg combined. The 3.6-liter V6 engine, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, its fuel economy was lower at 19-20 mpg combined. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations. Despite its size, the Atlas was easy to maneuver, thanks to its cameras and sensors. However, the ride quality was mixed, with a busy ride on rough surfaces and noticeable body float on undulating roads.

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 AWD, improved the Compass's performance. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 27 mpg combined, though our test averaged 23.8 mpg. The Compass offered Selec-Terrain driving modes, with the Trailhawk trim featuring additional off-road capabilities. On-road, the Compass Limited provided good grip, while the Trailhawk excelled off-road. However, the Compass's tall and narrow design led to noticeable body motions on uneven surfaces. The AWD system was slow to engage, causing front wheelspin during hard acceleration.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a spacious interior with comfortable seating for seven adults. The step-in height was low, making it easy to enter and exit. The Atlas provided ample storage space, though many areas were unlined, causing items to rattle. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2023 Jeep Compass accommodated adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and dual-zone climate control. Higher trims offered leather seats, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. The rear seat provided adequate space, though legroom was snug. Interior storage was limited, with a small center armrest bin. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured a standard Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic infotainment features, while other trims offered the MIB3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and Car-Net services. The user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface. The navigation system was unreliable without a Car-Net Hotspot subscription.

The 2023 Jeep Compass came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology. It supported wireless connectivity, SiriusXM services, and OTA updates. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The Alexa Built-in technology was responsive and accurate. The Compass also featured a parking assist system and a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and the full IQ Drive suite with lane-keeping and emergency assist. However, the Lane Assist system struggled with old construction markings, and the Atlas's crash-test ratings were not class-leading.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added drowsy driver detection and a rear-seat reminder system. Standard ADAS included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. The Compass's crash-test ratings were incomplete, but it previously qualified for a Top Safety Pick rating.