The redesigned 2017 Jeep Compass is much improved over its predecessor. It's a good choice if you want a comfortable and affordable crossover SUV that can still handle a dirt road.Jeep produced its previous-generation model for the first part of the model year and then switched over to the fully redesigned Compass. The first one suffers from poor performance, a low-quality interior and a rough ride, among other faults. We don't recommend buying the "old" Compass. The new Jeep Compass, however, is a much more competitive small crossover. Jeep made the new Compass more comfortable and enjoyable to drive on the street, where it knows that owners will spend most of their time.
Pros Solid interior space for such a small vehicle Highly capable off-road for a small crossover Rugged Jeep styling is unique in the segment
Cons Weak power delivery; you're always dipping into the throttle Hard to find a truly comfortable seat position Previous model's poor performance, ride comfort and refinement
Forget what you knew about the old Jeep Compass; this latest model is thoroughly modern, even if it doesn't exactly move the bar far forward in its segment.In its first generation, it went down in history as one of the most unloved crossovers on the road from day one. But that's the past and, aside from its badge, the Jeep Compass is all-new for 2017.
Likes Old Compass? Put out to pasture No more CVT Trailhawk toughness Mini Grand Cherokee looks inside and out Comfortable ride quality and good handling
Dislikes Priced like a larger crossover Narrow inside High cargo area liftover Mediocre visibility Could use more power
The Renegade is more Wrangler-focused, with lots of right angles and round headlights, whereas the Compass is clearly taking styling cues from the Grand Cherokee, so it’s more sleek and progressive.Indeed, you could argue the new Compass’s design looks more traditionally “Cherokee” than the current small Cherokee does. Dimensionally, the Compass has been engineered to fill a relatively narrow space in between the Renegade and Cherokee.The new Compass is a global vehicle.
Pros Crisply styled, off-road capable, nimble handling
Cons Lethargic transmission response, touchy brakes
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is all-new for 2018. It rides on a new chassis, gets an upgraded version of the previous engine, and features a more refined cabin design with additional features.
Pros Precisely tuned suspension delivers sharp handling and a comfortable ride quality Spacious interior for a hatchback of its size Offers optional safety features not typically found in the class High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability
CONS Lower EPA mileage numbers compared to other cars in its class Slow acceleration on the highway
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek ranked #8 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Subaru Crosstrek has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Exceptional rear-seat space for the class Generous cargo room Quiet and fuel-efficient CVT Athletic handling
Cons Slow to accelerate Terrible gas mileage with manual transmission
The Crosstrek’s standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance set the stage for adventure. Acceleration is unhurried from a 152-hp 2.0-liter flat-four paired with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic.
Pros Adventurous aesthetic, solid road manners, genuine off-pavement potential.
Cons Slow and unrefined powertrain, uninspired interior, questionable value.
