Best Off Road Vehicle?: 2018 Jeep Compass Review and Test Drive

carpreview.com/jeep/
No direction home? It’s a ‘tweener crossover, seeking success in the narrow gap between subcompacts like the Honda HR-V and compacts like the Toyota RAV4. Find out why the 2018 Jeep Compass may also be left looking for an audience. You may find yourself interested in this recently redesigned SUV, or decide its rivals - bigger and smaller - are better values. Our video review covers 2018 changes, prices, features, fuel economy, and more.
Questions we may answer in this review of the Jeep Compass 2018:
How safe is the 2018 Jeep Compass?
How popular is the 2018 Jeep Compass?
How many miles per gallon on a 2018 Jeep Compass?
Will there be any changes in the 2018 Jeep Compass?
Will there be a new 2018 Jeep Compass?
Will the 2018 Jeep Compass have interior upgrades?
Will the 2018 Jeep Compass have a side camera?
Will the Jeep Compass be redesigned in 2016?
Will the 2018 Jeep Compass be redesigned?
Will the 2018 Jeep Compass change?
Will the 2018 Jeep Compass have a CVT transmission?
Will 2018 Jeep Compass offer new colors?
Will gas mileage improve on 2018 Jeep Compass?
Will anything change on the 2018 Jeep Compass?
Will 2018 Jeep Compass have a heated steering wheel?
Will 2018 Jeep Compass be updated?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass be revised?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass come out?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass be made?
When does the 2018 Jeep Compass come out?
When do the 2018 Jeep Compass come out?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass be available?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass hit the car lots?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass hit the market?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass go on sale?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass be in showroom?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass be revealed?
When will the 2018 Jeep Compass be available for purchase?
When is the 2018 Jeep Compass going to be redesigned?
When is the new 2018 Jeep Compass coming?
When is the best time this year to buy a 2018 Jeep Compass?
When is the 2018 Jeep Compass coming out?
When is the 2018 Jeep Compass available?
When does the 2018 Jeep Compass arrive at dealerships?
When can i buy the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What is new price for 2018 Jeep Compass?
What is new on 2018 Jeep Compass?
What is different about the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What will 2018 Jeep Compass look like?
What will be the colors for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What is the gpa for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What is the gvw of a 2018 Jeep Compass in pounds?
What features will 2018 Jeep Compass have?
What does the 2018 Jeep Compass look like?
What changes are coming in the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What changes are in store for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What are the new safety features for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What are the new additions to the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What are the new colors for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What are the standard features for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
What do you think of the 2018 Jeep Compass?
Should I wait to buy the 2018 Jeep Compass?
Should I wait for the 2018 Jeep Compass?
Should I buy a 2018 Jeep Compass?

[@timkline162]

I just got a 2019 and love it so far. I went to the dealership expecting to drive home in a Cherokee, but I felt cramped and uncomfortable driving it. The Compass was a perfect fit for me.

[@jasonnye6087]

The 9-speed is actually quite nice. Only taching 1600 at 80mph. It's not a race car, but it picks up decently and doesn't tach high which is nice. I don't personally want an over torqued vehicle in bad weather.

[@mysticalmisfit1332]

Just purchased a 2018 certified Preowned compass trailhawk 4 days ago. It had 34k miles. Despite all the bad reviews, I love it! I test drove 7 other vehicles in the span of 2 months. I imprinted with my vehicle. I knew it was mine the minute I drove it. 😀 I’ve never driven off road before but off road adventure is appealing to me. I figured this would be a nice vehicle to start out in. Previously owned a 2012 Jetta that now has over 185k miles and still going strong. I absolutely love that car. I gave it to my son who’s in college. VW gets a lot of flack too. Can’t wait to take this baby on some adventures. 😃 My advice (not that anyone cares) if you like the vehicle, get it. Don’t pay too much attention the reviews. Don’t let someone else’s opinion sway you. Everyone raves about Toyota & Honda. Had a Honda (wasn’t impressed) test drove a Toyota (wasn’t impressed)🤷🏽 The certified preowned badge covers me until 02/25 less a $100 deductible. I feel comfortable with my purchase 😊

[@jacobshort5378]

My 2019 is sitting at 25,000 miles. No problems at all. I drive it on and off road, nothing broken.

[@shiftintohigh5564]

We love ours👍👍👍😎 seems like 2020 has improved throttle response. More power than our earlier one. Had to set the speed chime at 75.

[@spazgang5497]

i got one last week this jawn nice

[@waderznutz8605]

Looks good.

[@andrewtanczyk4009]

So I should purchase one ☝🏼 then?

[@MajorOSC]

Correct me if I'm wrong here but I thought these offer the option of four-wheel drive modes for the different terrain settings, but not all wheel drive. As my mechanic friend explained to me once, there is a stark difference between all-wheel drive and selectable four-wheel drive. Depending on the configuration both can have locking differentials that function to serve the same purpose but I believe it is the regular at speed driving characteristics that set all wheel drive apart from 4 wheel drive. And if I completely understand it and I'm not mistaken, this means that on any given day during regular use, a four-wheel drive vehicle will most likely be in 2 wheel drive, and should you decide to go into 4 wheel drive you'll need to slow down or stop and switch it into a four-wheel drive mode of your choice. Where is all-wheel drive is more like unintelligent 4 Way differential system. Sort of like transfers from wheels that slip two wheels that grip at any given time. Maybe somebody can clear up the details for me

[@nigelrowe2204]

The 4x4 models left in AUTO will uses FWD most of the time for economy. However if the car detects a need it with switch to 4x4 or whatever wheel needs assistance. You can lock all the wheels yourself with a simple button press and you can select what terrain you need 4x4 on and the car stays that way until you either deselect it or switch off the engine. You don't need to slow down before using any of the selectors.

[@victorsilva9764]

Love you

[@1.7k90]

I have one and I love it!!!!!!!

[@roofpizza1250]

we cant all have taste or know what we are talking about.

[@yanni2737]

The same here. I switched from a BMW X1 and i love it!

[@IanRM]

Me too, have the 2.00 ltr compass limited with full spec . . . Love it

[@TheMartinez09]

IanRM has it holding up? How long have u had it? I want one but here too many bad reviews on it and how it breaks down ... I scared to invest into it but I really want it.

[@nigelrowe2204]

@@TheMartinez09 So far mines done 5k miles with no issues at all. The previous three cars I had from different makers ALL had some problems - mostly minor but one left me stranded on a highway.

[@pisesobellai7291]

I love sunroof design.....

[@430CMB]

Can you test drive the 6spd manual Latitude, please?

[@julieleblanc4754]

manual only in sport and worth it

[@craigquann]

Why would you want a 6 Manuel. It's only available in front wheel drive not 4x4. Why even get an suv if your not getting a AWD/4x4. If there was a 6 manual and 4x4 it would be a very popular option.

[@kurtratzlaff8732]

i have the manual. it is terrible.. geared very tall, it is actually difficult to drive. and the gap between 1st and 2nd is huge, for a 6 speed they really did not space the gears properly. and it is clearly not well mated to the 2,4 engine. I've owned nothing but manual cars, 9 of them, and this is by far the worst manual I've ever owned. I would love to take it back and get a different car.

[@lewsea70]

Strange I like the twien

[@greggschoof8051]

How many bad reviews does FCA have to hear about the 9 speed auto trans before they fix or scrap it? I haven't heard one good review yet.

[@yanni2737]

Right i m guessing Range Rover and Mercedes that use the same ZF 9gear transmission are also idiots.

[@IanRM]

Gregg, I have an 2018 automatic Limited . . there is nothing wrong with the auto gear box. One of the best ones I have had.

[@nigelrowe2204]

FCA have altered this ZF9 spd especially for the Compass. Ours has been great so far with no issues.

[@lakshmandalpadado9066]

The transmission is made by ZF. It's a bit jerky. The owners manual says that it will smoothen out after 200-300 km-- and it does. The transmission is " self calibrating" and programs itself according to driving conditions. Most reviewers just jump into a new vehicle without reading the owners manual and complains about the gearbox.

[@klaythompson2488]

@@IanRM hey there still good ?

[@EM.1.]

They need to drop the Hurricane engine as an option soon. Also, build this model in the US.

[@jaberosier9853]

The first car I really drove a lot was a first gen compass. I always wanted to do an SRT4 swap into a compass.

[@1.7k90]

It's cheaper to assemble in Mexico. Motor is added in the US

[@roofpizza1250]

Built in America is cheaper and/or better? Go ahead, spend 2-4k more on a possibly inferior product. LOL.

[@spitsoup]

The problem I have always had with Jeeps, and I have owned many, is that the company is a vagabond among owners and does not stick with models. The Compass was going away and woops someone brought it back. Will it stay? Probably not, no matter how well received by owners. The old Cherokee XJ owned the mid size SUV marker for over a decade, but then Jeep opted to get rid of it (dealers said Jeep thot it would generate Cherokee owners to buy the Liberty, they didn't). The Patriot came around and was a lookalike to the old Cherokee but was underpowered (and actually bigger than the old Cherokee). If Jeep had upgraded the Patriot to the V6, IT too would dominate the category. Nope, underpowered and now gone. Jeep is nuts and shoots itself in the foot constantly. This Compass could find a market (especially with the 3.2 option) but Jeep will kill it and the Renegade is on borrowed time too. Jeep is proof that non car executives will be drowned by marketing dumbasses every time. At one time the Cherokee (XJ) sold more models to just gov and businesses as crew vehicles than any of the new stuff sells to anyone. XJ had a 6 cyl engine and real 4WD, was massively popular. Kill that car! Move on. The Jeep brand passes through more owners than does a pecan in a soft colon...with the same result. Its a shame really.

[@PrincessTS01]

2023 has a new turbo model

[@andrewtanczyk4009]

I was told that traction control is no good and makes you skid more.

[@yanni2737]

Rubbish the compass came top on the elk testing. Better than BMW X1 and Audi Q3. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpbHf4uhYtCBadk

[@jacobshort5378]

I have never had that problem, it's actually just at least where I live been very unhelpful as it cuts power too much and when you are in need of more tire spin it won't allow it. I turn it off.

[@cpaul57]

Go with the jeep cherokee

[@kennethcurtis1856]

Go with what is comfortable for you.

[@RoscoeS]

Well I own a Jeep Compass. The Dash board lighting does not auto turn off at night. If you are able to shut it off it has a great chance of coming back on. I have a case going on one now. My Jeep will not be in my hands for they say 45 days as the Programers figure a way to fix this issue. Until this is fixed I can not recommend this Vehicle!

[@EM.1.]

Mine also had major electric issues, my dealer told me it was a lemon. Not sure if I will replace it with another Compass or get another Jeep model at this time.

[@kurtratzlaff8732]

mine has constant problems with the engine sputtering and shutting off randomly. also the touchscreen is inoperable sometimes.. been a lot of problems from day 1 and I can't recommend this car to anyone.

[@letsroll2463]

dont u mean 4 Wheel drive or FWD?

[@DaveJ0826]

Well, Jeep uses the Active Drive 4x4 System that: "The available Jeep® Active Drive 4x4 System features a rear axle disconnect that seamlessly switches between two- and four-wheel drive to help increase efficiency when 4x4 capability isn’t needed." since it switches automatically, I guess would be more of an AWD system than a true 4x4??

[@nivlem131303]

FWD = front wheel drive

[@nigelrowe2204]

@@DaveJ0826 No AWD would be permanent 4WD. As you correctly cut and pasted the description it will use FWD most of the time but switch automatically if needs extra traction. You can also slect 4x4 yourself at any speed.

[@garlictyme2472]

I don't like this guy and his own personal opinion of knocking the Compass. It's the vehicle I plan to get in a couple years.

[@sycodad4483]

The compass trailhawk is NOT an off road vehicle!!! The tire size is 215/65r17. You can get all season tires. You can NOT get off road tires in that size. To put a real trail tire on it you have to go at least one size taller. Jeep will void your warranty if they catch it when you get service.

[@JasonKale]

No on ever mentions jeep compass is made in Mexico????

[@Arckabis]

He actually said that it is.... I have seen it in more than 1 video.

[@nigelrowe2204]

And your point being Jason Kale?

[@badger7275]

They need to stop putting in Fiats 2.4L engine, It’s underpowered and clunky. Both the Compass and Renegade would benefit from the 3.2L V6 or a turbo Diesel engine.

[@ForgotMyOrange]

For once, the Americans get the raw deal, 2L Turbo Diesel Jeep Compass is the one to get - not available in US

[@_lunavisuals]

It comes from MEXICO y'all heard that .. Good.

[@EM.1.]

Belvidere, Ill. facility should take over making this model for the US/Canada

[@1.7k90]

México makes the best vehicles :)

[@andrewtanczyk4009]

Gustavo Luna I missed that ☝🏼. Thanks. Now I’m not sure I’ll get one then!

[@1.7k90]

Andrew Tanczyk you can't afford anyways lol

[@ForgotMyOrange]

Not all of them, Australian models are made in India and there's a few other places

[@joezephyr]

I cannot visit your website. Your website thinks I am attacking your website. Byeeee!

[@martinnehafernandes761]

Stil lack lot of features

[@IanRM]

Plenty of other features. They just weren't mentioned

[@nigelrowe2204]

It depends what version you choose. There's nearly 70 safety features as standard to start with. My Limited has all I need.

[@lackyparker7799]

Jeep Compass is a car not a Jeep. Just like the Renegade it’s a fiat in disguise.

[@nigelrowe2204]

It's based on a strecthed Renegade platform. ALL car makers use their part bins to finish vehicles - VAG, PSA, JLR etc, why should'nt FCA?

[@dapmihinge]

dont like the rim design

[@bosse641]

So it's a Mexican car. Buying an American car is the choice for sure.

[@Arckabis]

What's an American car to you? Cherokee Colorado and canyon are American made but excluding those....

[@Arckabis]

Im pretty sure Honda makes more cars in the USA than any American company lol

[@nigelrowe2204]

And your point being?

[@swanblake]

The engine choice ruins this car. Sad

[@garlictyme2472]

So it doesn't have a race car engine for you men to beat on, some of us like to save on gas. It has more horsepower than a Subaru.

[@liammorgans7329]

That voice is hard to listen to. Sounds like he has a mouth full of saliva. Swallow!