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 2017 Lexus NX ranks 7 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. The 2017 Lexus NX 200t is a solid luxury compact SUV with a price that’s lower than many of its competitors. The NX deserves a look from shoppers who want a value-oriented and well-rounded daily driver or family car.
Pros Upscale, modern interior Spacious passenger room Comfortable ride quality
Cons Low cargo volume Difficult infotainment touch controls
The Lexus NX is a new direction for Lexus and a capable, smooth crossover that could use a little more smoothing around the corners. The 2017 Lexus NX doesn't stray too far from the crossover that made its debut just a couple years ago.
Pros Turbo acceleration and driving Hybrid fuel economy Spacious and comfortable up front Revolutionary styling from Lexus
Cons Infotainment system is too fussy to use Road noise can be an issue Nearly as fuel efficient as bigger SUVs
Looking for a small luxury crossover SUV that stands out in a crowd? The 2017 Lexus NX 200t certainly qualifies thanks to its aggressive exterior design. You'll like its impeccably crafted interior and spacious backseat, too. Read more to learn if this Lexus crossover is right for you.For 2017, the NX 200t receives a standard Scout GPS Link navigation app that streams from a smartphone.
Pros Impeccable cabin construction and quality Smooth and quiet engine Generous backseat room Copious high-tech features.
Cons Small cargo capacity Potentially distracting and frustrating Remote Touch tech interface.
