2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2024 Jeep Compass

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was available starting at $41,995, including the destination charge, for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Buyers could upgrade to higher trims like XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, with all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The test vehicle was a top-tier Platinum trim with AWD, priced at $54,718. Changes for 2023 were minimal, with a new Cypress Green paint option and standard power-folding mirrors on Limited and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid's design was criticized for being overly styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior, despite being quiet on the road, was noted for its lack of quality, with controls and materials feeling inexpensive and storage areas unlined, leading to potential noise issues.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Compass was tested in Michigan, featuring a red two-tone paint job and blacked-out trim. However, the test vehicle was a more basic white Compass Sport, which appeared generic and lacked distinctive Jeep features. The Compass Sport's design was described as invisible, with similarities to other small crossovers. The interior of the Compass, especially in higher trims, was praised for its design and quality, with supportive cloth seats and a cohesive look. The Compass offered a comfortable ride, though its exterior design was considered generic. The interior featured a large 10-inch infotainment screen and appropriate materials for its price, providing a sense of style not found in older models.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. The AWD version included a third electric motor for the rear wheels. Despite its powertrain, the Highlander Hybrid struggled with high-speed passing and towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The SUV offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with an additional Trail mode for light off-road use. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized fuel economy, though it fell short of its EPA-estimated 35 mpg, achieving only 28.7 mpg during testing. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a lack of engaging features.

The 2024 Jeep Compass, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, the Compass offered improved performance over its predecessor. It included three driving modes and a rear-axle disconnect for fuel efficiency. The Compass Trailhawk trim provided additional off-road capabilities, though it came at a higher cost. The Compass's steering and handling were noted as weak points, but its ride comfort was praised. Fuel economy was estimated at 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was designed to accommodate seven or eight passengers, though the third-row seat was best suited for occasional use. The interior featured three-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. The second-row seats offered comfort and flexibility, while the third row was cramped and difficult to access. The Highlander Hybrid provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. However, the storage areas were unlined, and the center armrest storage console was criticized for its complex design.

The 2024 Jeep Compass excelled in utility and ease of use, with clear analog gauges and a large color display. The interior offered ample legroom and headroom, with rear vents, USB ports, and a fold-down center armrest. Cargo space was competitive, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet when folded. The Compass also featured a foldable front passenger seat for carrying longer items. The central cubby and door pockets were small, but overall, the Compass provided a practical and comfortable interior.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The infotainment system offered over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected service plans. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. While the technology was generally easy to use, the graphics could have been bolder for better visibility.

The 2024 Jeep Compass came standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen featuring Uconnect 5 software. The display was clear and easy to navigate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and USB-C ports. Factory navigation was optional, and a wireless charging pad was available. Higher trims offered a 10.3-inch digital instrument panel, panoramic moonroof, and a nine-speaker Alpine stereo. The Compass also featured a semi-automated driving system, Active Driving Assist, on higher trims.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Hybrids also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, though the ADAS occasionally struggled with certain road conditions.

The 2024 Jeep Compass had not been rated by the NHTSA at the time of writing, but the 2022 model received four out of five stars. The 2023 Compass was awarded a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control and parking sensors were available on higher trims.