2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale appearance compared to its rugged predecessors. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families, offering a sophisticated look with new 17-inch wheel designs for the Sport and Latitude models, and gloss black wheels for the Trailhawk. The Compass lineup included various trims, from the base Sport to the off-road-ready Trailhawk, with prices ranging from just under $32,000 to over $40,000. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim with several optional packages, had a sticker price of $45,800. It featured a Granite Crystal paint job and 19-inch wheels, resembling a scaled-down Grand Cherokee. Inside, the two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents exuded a sense of luxury, though the high price tag seemed a bit steep.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a significant evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from a truck-based off-roader to a sleek, car-based crossover. Built on an EV-specific platform, it shared a long wheelbase with the Cadillac Lyriq, giving it a stretched appearance. The Blazer EV's design featured a tall hood, a scowling front end, and boomerang-shaped taillights, exuding more attitude than its electric SUV rivals. It launched in LT and RS trims, with the RS offering a blacked-out front fascia and 21-inch wheels. The interior of the RS and SS models featured large round air vents and a flat-bottom steering wheel, with optional red leather upholstery adding a fun touch. While some interior components felt flimsy, the Blazer EV mostly avoided the trend of piano-black plastic.

The 2023 Jeep Compass finally addressed its long-standing powertrain issues with 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 Jeep Active Drive AWD, transformed the Compass from gutless to gutsy. The Trailhawk version offered additional off-road capabilities with a low-range AWD system and a 20:1 crawl ratio. Despite improvements, the engine prioritized fuel economy over power, achieving an EPA rating of 27 mpg in combined driving. While the Compass handled well on pavement, its tall and narrow design led to noticeable body motions on uneven surfaces. Off-road, the Trailhawk excelled in challenging terrain, though it could benefit from more aggressive tires.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a choice between single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD powertrains in the LT and RS trims. The RWD model delivered 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD version had 288 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque. The Blazer EV SS, with 557 horsepower and 648 pound-feet of torque, promised exhilarating performance. During our test drive, the RWD model showed strong acceleration but was traction-limited, while the AWD version provided better off-the-line performance. The Blazer EV's handling was precise, but its stiff suspension compromised ride comfort. The steering-wheel paddle allowed for adjustable regenerative braking, enhancing driver involvement.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a comfortable interior with seating for adults in both rows. Despite its narrow design, it provided decent comfort for four passengers. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone climate control. Higher trims offered leather seats, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated options. The rear seat provided adequate space, and the Compass offered competitive cargo capacity with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.8 cubic feet with them folded. Interior storage was limited, but a wireless charging pad was available.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though headroom and legroom were similar to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. The high side sills and deep dashboard created a unique driving experience. Cargo space measured 25.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 59.1 cubic feet with them folded, slightly less than the gasoline Blazer. The Blazer EV featured a "presence activated" liftgate and ample small-item storage. Some controls were moved to the touchscreen, requiring adjustment.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM services. The system offered over-the-air updates and paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel. Our Limited test vehicle included an embedded navigation system, a nine-speaker Alpine sound system, and Alexa Built-in technology. The parking assist system and surround-view camera added convenience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV debuted a Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps, including Maps and Assistant. It lacked standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, offering deeper functionality for Android users. The system featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and an 11-inch digital instrument cluster with sharp graphics. Built-in route planning and over-the-air updates enhanced the user experience. The Blazer EV introduced a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift toward a high-tech feel.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added standard drowsy driver detection and rear-seat reminder systems. It featured advanced driving assistance systems like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Available upgrades included adaptive cruise control and Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. While crash-test ratings were incomplete, the Compass previously earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Optional driver aids included reverse automatic braking and Super Cruise, a hands-free driver assist system. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication.