2023 Jeep Compass vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh. Its styling was characterized by a blunt nose, long hood, and a rakish windshield, with the cabin positioned towards the rear wheels, embodying the subtle allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged aesthetic with its pronounced fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates, which were common among crossovers mimicking SUVs. The oversized air intakes and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually offensive. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch wheels, these elements created an appealing exterior. The interior of the CX-50 was equally impressive, featuring black leather with caramel stitching, a driver-focused design, and quality materials, though the off-center air vent seemed like an afterthought.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Compass embraced a more refined and upscale design ethos, moving away from the rugged Jeep look. It shared design elements with the larger Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Wagoneer families, offering a sophisticated appearance. The Compass Sport and Latitude models received new 17-inch wheels, 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. Our test vehicle, a Limited trim, featured Granite Crystal paint and multi-spoke 19-inch wheels, resembling a smaller Grand Cherokee. Inside, the two-tone black and gray cabin with caramel accents exuded a sense of luxury, though the price seemed steep for a small SUV.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model featured a 187 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. Mazda estimated a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg for this version. For those seeking more power, the 2.5 Turbo variant provided between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel type, with torque ranging from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. The turbocharged engine offered smooth acceleration and a towing capacity increase from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. Despite a slightly firmer ride quality, the CX-50 handled well on various terrains, though it lacked a downhill assist control system.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard Jeep Active Drive AWD system. The Compass offered Selec-Terrain with Auto, Snow, and Sand/Mud modes, while the Trailhawk version included a Rock mode and a hill descent control system. The new engine transformed the Compass, providing a more enjoyable driving experience. However, the AWD system was slow to engage, and the Trailhawk's tires struggled on certain terrains. The Compass achieved an EPA rating of 27 mpg in combined driving, though our test averaged 23.8 mpg.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was well-equipped, with features like power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control were effective in maintaining comfort. The driver's seat and front passenger's seat were comfortable, though additional side bolstering would have been beneficial. The rear seat offered ample space for adults, and the rear doors opened wide for easy access. Cargo space was 31.4 cubic feet, expandable to 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though the load floor was narrow between the wheel wells.

The 2023 Jeep Compass provided a comfortable interior for adults in both rows, despite its narrow design. Standard features included an air filtration system and available dual-zone automatic climate control. Cloth upholstery was standard, with leather seats available on higher trims. The Limited test vehicle offered a premium interior with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power-adjustable seats. The rear seat provided adequate space, though legroom was limited if the front seats were reclined. Cargo space was 27.2 cubic feet, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and the load floor could be adjusted for additional storage.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with a Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base model had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims included a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect traditionally lacked touchscreen control, relying on center console buttons and knobs, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. However, the 2023 CX-50 introduced touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available Bose 12-speaker sound system provided a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display offered useful information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and SiriusXM services. The system allowed Bluetooth pairing for two devices and received OTA updates. Depending on the trim, it could be paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, embedded navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The Alexa Built-in digital assistant offered natural voice recognition, and the parking assist system could autonomously steer the Compass into parking spaces. The surround-view camera was a useful addition.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though the IIHS had not yet tested it. It offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with additional features available on the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim. These included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera. The adaptive cruise control system had a minor issue with recognizing vehicles cutting in, but overall, the safety systems were effective.

The 2023 Jeep Compass added a drowsy driver detection system and a rear-seat reminder. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Available upgrades included adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and parking sensors. The Trailhawk, Limited, and High Altitude trims offered Highway Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. The Compass had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, and the IIHS had incomplete test results, though it previously qualified for a Top Safety Pick rating.