2016 Jeep Compass Expert Review
Reviewed by Michael Cantu
Jeep adds Uconnect handsfree and satellite radio as standard equipment and the Latitude trim receives automatic headlights as standard. The Sport SE package and a Mojave Sand exterior color were also added for this model year.
Vehicle Summary
The Compass slots toward the bottom of Jeep's SUV lineup, above the Patriot and Renegade but below the Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee in both price and size. The Compass is one of the most affordable SUVs on the market.
Overview
The 2016 Jeep Compass comes standard with a 2.0-liter I-4 that produces 158 hp and 141 lb-ft of torque and is paired to either a five-speed manual that delivers an EPA-rated 23/30 mpg city/highway or to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers 22/26 mpg. The 2.0-liter engine is only available in the front-drive models. The available 172-hp, 165-lb-ft, 2.4-liter I-4 can be paired to a six-speed automatic or a five-speed manual and delivers 21/27 mpg and 23/28 mpg respectively when equipped with front-wheel drive. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the 2.4-liter delivers 20/23 mpg with the CVT, 20/25 mpg with the six-speed automatic, and 22/27 mpg with the five-speed manual.
If you plan to trek off-road in your 2016 Jeep Compass, opt for the Freedom-Drive II Off-Road Group that consists of an all-wheel drive with off-road mode, 140-amp alternator, 17-inch alloy wheels, all-season floor mats, brake-lock differential, engine oil cooler, fuel tank skid plate shield, full size spare tire, hill-descent control, hill-start assist, Goodyear all-terrain tires, tow hooks, trailer-tow wiring harness, and a Trail Rated badge. However, if you plan to stay on-road, the Security and Cargo Convenience group will add a few luxuries to your Compass including a remote start system, USB port, auto-diming rearview mirror with microphone, security alarm, soft tonneau cover, tire-pressure monitoring display, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, universal garage door opener, and an Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).
Safety
The 2016 Jeep Compass received three stars out of five from the NHSTA for the frontal crash rating and four stars for the rollover rating. An overall and side crash rating were not conducted. The IIHS issued the highest rating of Good for the head restraints and seats test and the second highest rating of Acceptable for Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) east of use. Standard safety features include electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, six airbags, and traction control.
What We Think
The 2016 Jeep Compass has not had a significant update in several years, however, the all-new 2017 Compass has been completely resigned. When we last tested a Compass in a 2013 First Test review, we felt that the 2.4-liter paired to the CVT lacked power and made quick highway lane changes difficult. The powertrain was whiny at full throttle but once the SUV got to highway speeds it became more comfortable. The interior had adequate features and the seats were soft and comfortable.
"While the revamped 2011 front grille design makes the 'ute look like its older, larger sibling, it still has some catching up to do to be a real competitor in the crossover segment," we wrote in the review. If you are in the market for a compact Jeep, make sure not to miss out on the all-new 2017 Jeep Compass or the Jeep Renegade.
Cool Fact
When properly equipped, the 2016 Jeep Compass can tow up to 2,000 pounds.
