The Compass enters 2021 with minor changes. There's a new 80th Anniversary Edition that's based on the Latitude trim level and features Granite Crystal 19-inch wheels, leather seats with contrast stitching, a power-adjustable driver's seat, remote start, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, a 115-volt power outlet, and more. Other flourishes include trim-specific badging, an oak medallion key fob, and piano-black and gunmetal interior accents.
Pros Can actually handle some off-road obstacles, no shortage of popular technology, one of the prettier Jeep designs.
Cons Inferior interior materials, powertrain has apathetic responses, the Cherokee offers more capability.
The 2021 Jeep Compass's #14 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the Jeep Compass has a score of 6.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 34 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Excellent off-roader Adult-friendly seats User-friendly infotainment features
CONS Weak engine and so-so handling Limited standard safety tech and low safety score Below-average cargo room Subpar predicted reliability rating
The 2021 Jeep Compass skimps on safety and seat comfort, but delivers crossover utility in a compact footprint.
Pros Sharp-looking sheetmetal Standard touchscreen with smartphone tech Capable Trailhawk trim Good cargo space
Cons Sloppy 9-speed automatic Sub-par crash test scores Cramped rear seat Automatic emergency braking not standard
The 2018 Nissan Rogue may not be very exciting, but it checks all the right boxes—and then some—for most family needs.
Pros Lots of standard safety tech Can drive itself, at least a little Great interior space utilization Rides well Optional hybrid
Cons Light on power Transmission drones on and on Hardly fun to drive Base model looks very basic Hybrid’s not that thrifty
The 2018 Nissan Rogue ranked #10 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Nissan Rogue has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 44 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Upscale interior Spacious, versatile cargo area Top-tier gas mileage Lots of advanced safety features, even in base model
Cons Underpowered engine Noisy transmission
For most uses — commuter, family and recreational — we'd recommend the SV trim with the optional Premium package. The latter adds useful features such as a surround-view camera system, navigation and a power liftgate. You also get some of the SL trim's more desirable items without the larger wheels that can detract from the ride quality.
PROS Front seats are comfortable on long drives Ride quality remains comfortable over varying terrain Tech options and features are user-friendly Cargo space is vast and versatile
CONS Outward visibility is poor Transmission responds slowly and with an annoying "surge" feeling Acceleration is weak and listless
