2023 Jeep Compass vs 2023 Jeep Wrangler

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, no-nonsense design with its boxy shape and minimal curves, embodying a classic off-road aesthetic. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. The exterior featured wide fenders, Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille, and round headlights, while the interior maintained a practical, straightforward design with easy-to-clean materials and a body-colored dash. The Wrangler's design was simple yet functional, with unique color options like the limited-edition Reign purple and the new Earl gray.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass offered a more refined and upscale appearance, aligning with the design ethos of the larger Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models. The Compass featured a new 17-inch wheel design for the Sport and Latitude trims, while the Trailhawk's wheels were painted gloss black. The Compass was available in five core trim levels, with special editions like the Altitude and High Altitude offering additional customization. The Limited trim, with its Granite Crystal paint and 19-inch wheels, provided a sophisticated look reminiscent of a scaled-down Grand Cherokee. Inside, the Compass boasted a two-tone cabin with digital displays and metallic trim, creating a more luxurious feel.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler excelled in off-road performance, offering a range of engine options to suit different driving needs. The standard V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder provided 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more torque, the 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 offered 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The high-performance Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower and torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid combined two electric motors with a 17.3 kWh battery, offering 21 miles of all-electric range. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like the Selec-Trac and Rock-Trac transfer cases, providing impressive crawl ratios for tackling tough terrain. However, the 392 model's on-road performance was hindered by inadequate brakes and vague steering.

The 2023 Jeep Compass saw a significant improvement in performance with its 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 underpowered to capable. The Trailhawk trim offered additional off-road features, including a Jeep Active Drive Low AWD system with a 20:1 crawl ratio, skid plates, and recovery hooks. While the Compass's engine prioritized fuel economy, achieving an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined, real-world testing showed slightly lower results. The Compass provided a more enjoyable driving experience than previous models, with improved acceleration and a quieter, smoother engine. However, its tall and narrow design contributed to noticeable body motions on uneven surfaces, and the AWD system was slow to engage.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available in the 392 model or through a cold-weather package. The rear seat was tight, especially in the four-door models, and accessing the back was challenging due to small rear doors. Storage space for small items was limited, with a flat dash and small glove box and center console. The Wrangler provided 72.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, slightly less than its competitor, the Bronco. Various top options allowed for open-air driving, with the Sky One-Touch power soft top offering the most convenience. The Wrangler featured ample charging points, including USB-A and USB-C ports and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2023 Jeep Compass accommodated adults comfortably in both rows, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone climate control. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather options available in higher trims. The Limited trim offered a premium interior with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power-adjustable seats. Rear seat space was adequate, with generous foot room and supportive cushions. Interior storage was limited, with a small bin under the center armrest. The Compass provided 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. An adjustable load floor allowed for additional storage flexibility.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen available. The system, while initially complex, offered intuitive access to features like off-road pages, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler included practical tech features like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories but lacked advanced digital features like a digital key or comprehensive over-the-air updates.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM services. The system allowed for over-the-air updates and paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel in higher trims. Additional features included an embedded navigation system, a nine-speaker Alpine sound system, and Alexa Built-in technology. The Compass also offered a parking assist system and a surround-view camera, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control standard across all models. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard only on the 392 model or available as part of an option package. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims' headlights rated poorly.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added new safety features, including a drowsy driver detection system and rear-seat reminder. Standard ADAS included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system, and adaptive cruise control. The Compass's safety ratings were incomplete at the time of review, but it previously qualified for a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.