2026 Jeep Compass

The new Compass, which slots above the Renegade and below the Cherokee, should be better than its uncompetitive and outclassed predecessor. Power comes from a 180-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder--an engine we found to be somewhat unrefined and sluggish in other Jeeps. Three transmission choices are available: six-speed manual, and six- and nine-speed automatics. It has a roomy rear seat and the excellent Uconnect infotainment system. The Trailhawk will be the more robust off-road version, with rock-crawling gearing and off-road tires, and the ability to tow up to 2,000 pounds. The Compass got a refresh for 2022 with altered exterior style and a heavily revised interior design and controls layout. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and lane keeping assistance are now standard on all trim levels. For 2023, Jeep replaced the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 2.0-liter turbochagred four-cylinder. The nine-speed automatic has been replaced by an eight-speed.