Jeep Compass Two Generations (2007-present)
Two gens. MK polarising soft-roader 2007-2016. MP completely redesigned 2017+. Trailhawk + 4xe variants.
Two distinct generations. MK (2007-2017): DaimlerChrysler/Mitsubishi GS platform shared with Dodge Caliber and Jeep Patriot. 2.0L (158 hp) or 2.4L (172 hp) World Engine I4. Five-speed manual or CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) — the CVT was widely criticised for poor durability and shudder. FWD or Freedom Drive I 4WD (with optional Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package adding low-range, all-terrain tires, skid plates). 2011 mid-cycle restyling tried to align with Grand Cherokee aesthetic — successful but didn't fix underlying platform shortcomings. 70th Anniversary Edition (2011) limited trim. MP (2017-present): completely new platform — stretched Small US-Wide architecture shared with Renegade. Built at Toluca, Mexico. Engines: 2.4L Tigershark I4 (180 hp / 175 lb-ft) 2017-2022, 1.3L Hurricane turbo I4 (177 hp / 210 lb-ft) 2022+, 2.0L Hurricane turbo I4 (200 hp from 2024 on top trims). Transmissions: 6-speed manual (early years on FWD only), 6-speed or 9-speed automatic. Trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, Trailhawk (with rear-locking differential, off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plates, 8.6-inch ground clearance). High Altitude / Altitude / Upland special editions. 4xe PHEV (Europe + global, not US): 1.3L turbo + electric motor (240 hp combined, ~30-mile EV range). 2022 mid-cycle facelift redesigned interior dashboard, added Uconnect 5 infotainment with 10.1-inch touchscreen. 2024+ models: 2024 became Jeep's entry-level model in North America after Renegade discontinuation. Currently the volume Jeep CUV in the brand's lineup.
Strengths
- Trailhawk trim genuinely off-road capable
- MP 2.0L Hurricane turbo (200 hp from 2024)
- 4xe PHEV variant (240 hp, ~30-mile EV range)
- Affordable entry-Jeep pricing
- Uconnect 5 infotainment (post-2022)
Weaknesses
- MK CVT durability issues (2007-2017)
- 2.4L Tigershark oil consumption
- 9-speed automatic shift quality (MP early years)
- Cabin tech behind RAV4 / CR-V on MK
- Resale value below segment leaders
Notable tech
- 1.3L Hurricane turbo I4 (177 hp, MP 2022+)
- 2.0L Hurricane turbo I4 (200 hp, MP 2024+)
- 9-speed automatic (MP)
- 4xe PHEV (240 hp combined)
- Active Drive Low 4WD with locking rear differential (Trailhawk)
- Uconnect 5 + 10.1-inch touchscreen (MP 2022+)
Common issues
- MK CVT shudder / failure (2007-2017)
- 2.4L Tigershark oil consumption
- 9-speed automatic harsh shifts (MP early)
- Stop/start system battery drain
- Power liftgate motor failures
Used-market budget
$15,000
MK $5-9k. MP 2017-2021 $11-22k. MP 2022+ post-facelift $16-28k. Trailhawk commands modest premium. 4xe (US-grey-import) very rare.
