Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially with so many excellent options available. If you’re a fan of rugged capability and iconic design, you’ve likely considered Jeep. Two popular models often compared are the Jeep Compass and the Jeep Cherokee. Both offer Jeep’s renowned off-road prowess and comfortable interiors, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the 2022 Jeep Compass and 2022 Jeep Cherokee, highlighting their similarities and differences to help you determine which SUV best fits your lifestyle.
Whether you need a fuel-efficient daily commuter or a more powerful and spacious vehicle for family adventures, understanding the nuances of the Jeep Compass versus Cherokee is key. Let’s explore these two impressive SUVs head-to-head.
Performance and Engine Options: Jeep Compass vs. Cherokee
When it comes to performance, both the 2022 Jeep Compass and Cherokee offer capable engines, but they cater to different driving needs. The Jeep Compass comes standard with a fuel-efficient 2.4L Tigershark® inline four-cylinder engine. This engine provides a good balance of power and economy for daily driving and commuting.
Jeep Compass Engine Specs:
- Engine: 2.4L Tigershark® Inline Four-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 177 HP
- Torque: 172 lb.-ft.
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs.
- Fuel Economy: Up to 22 city/31 highway MPG
- Transmission: Six- or nine-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: FWD or Jeep Active Drive 4×4
For those seeking more power and enhanced towing capability, the Jeep Cherokee offers a choice of two robust engines. The standard engine is a 3.2L Pentastar® V6, delivering significant horsepower and torque for confident performance in various driving conditions.
Jeep Cherokee Engine Options:
3.2L Pentastar® V6 Engine:
- Horsepower: 271 HP
- Torque: 239 lb.-ft.
- Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs.
- Fuel Economy: Up to 20 city/29 highway MPG
- Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: FWD or Jeep Active Drive 4×4
2.0L Turbo Inline Four-Cylinder Engine:
- Horsepower: 270 HP
- Torque: 295 lb.-ft.
- Towing Capacity: 4,000 lbs.
- Fuel Economy: Up to 23 city/31 highway MPG
- Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: FWD or Jeep Active Drive 4×4
Both the Compass and Cherokee offer the Trailhawk® trim, designed for off-road enthusiasts. Trailhawk models boast features like increased ground clearance, off-road suspension, and skid plates, enhancing their capability on challenging terrains. This makes both the Compass and Cherokee Trailhawk versions excellent choices for adventure seekers.
Exterior Design and Styling: Compass vs. Cherokee
The exterior designs of the 2022 Jeep Compass and Cherokee are distinctly Jeep, featuring the iconic seven-slot grille and bold styling cues. Both SUVs are instantly recognizable and project a sense of ruggedness and adventure. LED lighting enhances visibility and adds a modern touch to their front fascias.
The Compass showcases a more contemporary and youthful design, with available two-tone paint options and a unique hood design, especially on the Trailhawk trim. Its subcompact size makes it nimble and easy to maneuver in urban environments.
The Cherokee, while still distinctly Jeep, presents a more mature and substantial look. The Cherokee Trailhawk also features a unique hood design and eye-catching paint options, emphasizing its off-road readiness. Wheel options for both models range from 17-inch to 19-inch, allowing for personalization of their stance and style.
Shared Exterior Features:
- Iconic Seven-Slot Grille
- Available LED Lighting
- Heated Side Mirrors
- Side Roof Rails
- Windshield Wiper De-Icer
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space: Jeep SUVs Compared
Inside, both the Jeep Compass and Cherokee offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins. The interiors are designed with user-friendly layouts and utilize quality materials, creating a pleasant environment for both driver and passengers. Seating options range from cloth to premium leather, allowing buyers to customize the level of luxury and comfort.
When it comes to cargo space, the Jeep Compass surprisingly offers slightly more maximum cargo volume, with 59.8 cubic feet compared to the Cherokee’s 54.7 cubic feet. However, the Cherokee, being a compact SUV, generally provides more passenger space and a more spacious feel overall, particularly in the rear seats. Both models offer an under-floor cargo area for secure storage of valuables.
Key Interior Features:
- Cloth, Premium Cloth, Leather, and Premium Leather Seating Options
- Available Heated Front Seats
- Available Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Available Leather-Wrapped Heated Steering Wheel
- Full-Length Floor Console (Cherokee)
Technology and Connectivity: Jeep Compass and Cherokee
Staying connected is crucial in today’s world, and both the 2022 Jeep Compass and Cherokee excel in providing advanced technology features. Standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration ensures seamless smartphone connectivity, allowing access to navigation, music, and contacts via the Uconnect infotainment system.
The Compass features the newer Uconnect 5 system with an 8.4-inch or optional 10.1-inch touchscreen, offering enhanced speed and functionality. The Cherokee utilizes the Uconnect 4 system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen. 4G LTE Wi-Fi® is standard on the Cherokee and available on higher Compass trims, keeping you connected on the go.
Technology Highlights:
- Standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio Available
- Wireless Charging Available
- Alpine® Premium Audio System Available
- Available 7-inch Color Driver Information Screen
- Uconnect 5 with 8.4- or 10.1-inch Touchscreen (Compass)
- Uconnect 4 with 8.4-inch Touchscreen (Cherokee)
Safety and Driver Assistance: Prioritizing Security in Jeep SUVs
Jeep prioritizes safety, and both the Compass and Cherokee are equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety and driver-assistance features. Both models include essential safety features like all-speed traction control, daytime running lamps, and tire pressure monitoring systems.
Advanced safety technologies available on both models include forward collision warning, rear back-up camera, and park assist systems. The Compass further offers features like parallel and perpendicular park assist, highway assist system, and traffic sign recognition, while the Cherokee includes side distance warning.
Safety Feature Highlights:
- Full Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus Available
- ParkView® Rear Back-Up Camera Standard
- ParkSense® Front and Rear Park Assist System Available
- Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist (Compass)
- Highway Assist System (Compass)
- Traffic Sign Recognition (Compass)
- Side Distance Warning (Cherokee)
Jeep Compass or Cherokee: Which SUV to Choose?
Choosing between the Jeep Compass and Cherokee ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Choose the Jeep Compass if:
- You prioritize fuel efficiency and a lower starting price.
- You need a nimble subcompact SUV for city driving and easier parking.
- Maximum cargo space is a key concern.
- You appreciate a more modern and youthful exterior design.
Choose the Jeep Cherokee if:
- You require more powerful engine options and higher towing capacity.
- You prefer a more spacious interior and a larger vehicle feel.
- Off-road capability and Trailhawk trim are important to you.
- You desire standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity.
Both the 2022 Jeep Compass and Cherokee are excellent SUVs, each offering a unique blend of Jeep capability, comfort, and technology. By carefully considering your driving needs and preferences, you can confidently choose the Jeep SUV that perfectly complements your lifestyle. To experience these vehicles firsthand, visit your local Jeep dealership for a test drive and explore the available trim levels and options.
