2026 Jeep Compass Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
When you don't want to go full Wrangler but still want to drive a Jeep, the Compass could be the answer. And it's clear the 2026 Jeep Compass wears styling elements inspired by the Grand Cherokee while offering gas and electrified powertrains.
The 2026 Compass rides on a new platform, and we expect it will offer gas and electrified powertrains. Small SUV rivals include the Ford Bronco Sport, Subaru Crosstrek, and Honda HR-V.
Need a bit more space? The next size up Jeep is the Cherokee—read about it here.
What’s New
Production versions of the all-new Jeep Compass are expected to start rolling off assembly lines in North America in 2026.
Basics
- Potential for gas and hybrid variants, likely including a Compass 4xe plug-in hybrid
- An electric variant could eventually join the lineup
Exterior
- New exterior design with updated wheel designs
Interior
- New interior layout with more interior space
- Updated, modern technology features
Performance
Performance for the last Compass was disappointing. Its turbo-four made 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque and with standard 4WD, it took the baby ute 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph. Steering felt vague, and braking produced lots of front-end dive. Fuel economy was EPA-rated at 24/32 mpg city/highway, about average for the class.
The STLA Medium platform that will underpin the 2026 Compass provides flexibility for the vehicle to have gas, hybrid, and all-electric powertrains. Gas models could get a rehash of the outgoing models’ 2.0-liter turbo-four, or something from Stellantis Global Small Engine family, which is made up of I-3 and I-4 engines under 1.5 liters in displacement.
Fuel economy from these small engines could be decent, but they appear to max out at 178 and 210 lb-ft of torque, less than what the current 2.0-liter produces. Some eTorque mild-hybrid boost like the Wrangler gets could be a useful fit here.
Will There Be a Compass 4xe?
The plug-in hybrid powertrain in the Alfa Romeo Tonale seems like a natural fit for a 2026 Compass 4xe model. In the Alfa, the plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a 1.3-liter turbo-four engine with a 90-kW electric motor to make a healthy 285 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. It also features a battery that enables about 33 miles of all-electric driving.
If a 2026 Compass 4xe does come to the market, we hope Jeep can increase that range to better match the plug-in hybrid versions of the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage.
All-Electric Jeep Compass?
To expand its EV offerings beyond the Wagoneer S, Jeep could offer the Compass as a small all-electric SUV. The Compass’ STLA Medium platform supports an electric powertrain, so Jeep has the option to create a Compass EV.
Considering the delays we’ve seen on the all-electric Wagoneer S and Recon, it could be a while before we see a fully electric Compass. One thing's for sure, if a Compass EV ever shows up, it'll be the most expensive version in the range.
How About a New Compass Trailhawk?
An off-road version of the new Compass seems like a given, but what would it look like? Equipment for a 2026 Compass Trailhawk would probably resemble the last one, with a modest lift, skid plates, all-terrain tires, hill descent control, as well as front and rear tow hooks.
A 4WD system with an ultra-low crawl ratio seems probable, as do LED lights and a driving mode for rocky surfaces.
How Big Will the Next Compass Be?
There’s a decent chance the next Compass gets longer, wider, and taller.
At about 173 inches long, 74 inches wide, and 65 inches tall, the outgoing Compass delivered decent rear legroom and competitive cargo space among subcompact SUVs. A bigger new Compass could improve on that interior spaciousness and then possibly compete directly with compacts like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
Technology
New tech will be showcased in the 2026 Compass, but the coolest features could be reserved for higher-end models.
Ideally, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and driver display will be standard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will likely be included, and a wireless charging pad should be available to supplement the standard USB ports. Expect Jeep to offer a premium audio system as an upgrade.
When and How Much?
The next-gen Jeep Compass is expected for 2026. Look for a starting price around $30,000 for the entry-level gas model, and a few thousand dollars more for the base hybrid model.
