While the 2020 Jeep Compass looks perfectly suited for the city, beneath that sleek three-piece suit is a weekend warrior that can easily take to the hills. This compact SUV has all the maneuverability of its class but adds off-roading chops that will plaster a smile on your face every three-day weekend. In this preview guide, we’ll dig in to what you can expect from the new model year and what’s so great about a Jeep Compass generally.
What’s New for 2020?
The changes were light this year, but welcome additions. Those watching their budget will be happiest because the entry-level Jeep Compass Sport received the lion’s share of the upgrades. Specifically, two packages became available. You can now order a Compass Sport with the Safety and Security package that includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and more. The other package is the Advanced Safety package that comes with adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, forward-collision warning, leather steering wheel, and more.
The Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk trim levels get a new Luxury Seat package this year that offers a power-adjustable driver's seat, memory driver's seat, and ventilated front seats. They also get a new optional Alpine sound system. Finally, the new color on the block is the Velvet Red Pearl Coat.
Why Buy a Jeep Compass?
Far and away, the best thing about the Compass is its off-roading prowess. No other vehicle in its class can wrest the crown from the Compass when it comes to hitting the dusty trails. One stand-out feature is the optional four-wheel drive transmission. Most other manufacturers offer only all-wheel drive. The off-road dedicated Compass Trailhawk trim gets you full-time four-wheel drive, an upgraded 4x4 system with low-range gearing, and Selec-Terrain traction management system with Snow, Sand, and Mud settings. Ground clearance on this lithe beast measures 8.5 inches for fording streams and barreling down a rocky trail.
Master H3
Some people might be understandably concerned about the size of a compact SUV’s cabin. But the the 2020 Compass is surprisingly roomy on the inside. Four adults or a family of five sit comfortably. The seats are quality and thanks to high seat bottoms in the back seat, passengers' legs are fully supported no matter where you sit. Even long road trips can be comfortable.
Finally, the 2020 Compass has impressive tech that includes some top-ticket items, like standard Uconnect infotainment system, 7-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and six-speaker sound system. Upgrade your Compass and you could drive away with satellite radio, keyless entry, heated steering wheel and seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and 8.4-inch screen. That’s plenty of tech for city living, and all you need when you have to get away.