2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Jeep Compass

The 2023 Jeep Compass presented a more refined and upscale design, moving away from the rugged aesthetic traditionally associated with Jeep. 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 was available in five core trim levels, with special editions like the Altitude, Red, and High Altitude, making it a versatile choice for different preferences. Despite its upscale appearance, the Compass was considered expensive for a small SUV, with prices ranging from just under $32,000 to over $40,000, and our test vehicle reaching $45,800.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic burly, body-on-frame look, with a redesigned grille for improved airflow and an integrated windshield antenna to prevent snagging during off-roading. The Wrangler offered a variety of roof options, including soft-top, hard top, and power-retractable sunroof configurations, allowing for a customizable open-air experience. The Wrangler's rugged design was complemented by 10 new wheel designs and the ability to remove doors and fold down the windshield, enhancing its adventurous appeal. The Wrangler's design remained consistent across its various powertrains and trims, emphasizing its off-road capabilities.

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 Jeep Active Drive AWD, transformed the Compass from a previously underpowered model to a more capable SUV. The Trailhawk version featured a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system with a 20:1 crawl ratio, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Despite improvements, the Compass prioritized fuel economy over power, achieving an EPA rating of 27 mpg in combined driving, though real-world tests averaged 23.8 mpg. The Compass offered a more refined driving experience, with better grip and quieter operation, but still faced challenges with body motions and AWD engagement.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower, a 3.6-liter V6 with 285 horsepower, and a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was supported by various transfer cases, including the Command-Trac, Selec-Trac, and Rock-Trac systems, catering to different levels of off-road capability. The 4xe PHEV model stood out with its combination of electric and gasoline power, offering 21 miles of all-electric range. The Wrangler's solid axles provided excellent articulation, and the addition of features like the Offroad+ mode and BF Goodrich KO2 tires enhanced its off-road performance. However, the Wrangler's ride quality on pavement remained bumpy, though sound deadening improvements made the cabin quieter.

The 2023 Jeep Compass offered a comfortable interior with seating for adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone climate control. Higher trims offered leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. The Compass provided competitive cargo space, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. Interior storage was adequate, though some areas were limited in size.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, with certain models now able to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box for powering accessories. The Wrangler's interior was designed for durability, with features like waterproof seat adjustment mechanisms for off-road adventures. However, ventilated seats were not available, and the ride quality on pavement was less refined compared to the Compass.

The 2023 Jeep Compass came equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered over-the-air updates, a digital instrumentation panel, and an optional nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The Compass also included a parking assist system and a surround-view camera, enhancing its technological appeal.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler featured a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Uconnect5, offering a cleaner interface and faster performance. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation. The Off-Road Pages provided detailed off-road data, and the Trails Offroad feature offered access to numerous trails. The Wrangler also included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store user profiles, enhancing its tech-savvy nature.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder, with standard ADAS features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional upgrades included adaptive cruise control and Highway Assist. The Compass had not yet received crash-test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS for 2023.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced side-curtain airbags and standard forward collision warning on most trims. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Wrangler lacked lane-keeping assist and highway assist features. The 2023 Wrangler received mixed ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with expectations for improved ratings in 2024 due to the addition of side-curtain airbags.