The 2023 Jeep Compass and the 2023 Kia Sportage have emerged as strong contenders in the compact SUV market. With their modern designs, unique features, and adaptable performance capabilities, these vehicles offer enticing options for SUV enthusiasts. Let’s delve into the various aspects of each vehicle to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- The Compass has a sturdy aesthetic while the Sportage has a modern but rugged aesthetic.
- The Compass has a practical interior while the Sportage has a fancier interior.
- The Compass has a higher-performing engine than the Sportage.
- Both SUVs come with impressive technology and safety features.
- The Compass has a market price of $34,000 while the Sportage’s market price is about $30,000.
Exterior
The Compass shows off its sturdy appearance that reflects its Jeep heritage. With its iconic seven-slot grille, high ground clearance, and muscular body lines, it exudes a sense of adventure and off-road prowess. The Compass is a great vehicle for those who want a modern but rugged look to go off-roading in.
The Sportage showcases a modern design that is sure to capture those seeking to be stylish. It comes with a black front grille that stretches the Sportage’s face, crisp LED headlights, and dynamic contours to create a clean, refined look.
The choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a more rugged or a more athletic aesthetic.
Interior and Technology
Both the Compass and the Sportage offer great interiors with comfortable seating and excellent materials. The Compass provides a large cabin that provides comfortable seats that support your legs better for long road trips. It also provides an interior that is functional and simple, which is nice if you want to keep your driving practical. As for technology, the Compass has an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen (depending on trim) with a 7.0-inch instrument cluster. It offers available features like a 6-speaker audio system, 3 USB ports, two 12-volt outlets, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The Sportage also offers a comfortable cabin with more rear-leg room and 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which is about 12.4 cubic feet more than the Compass. As for technology, the Sportage comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It provides features such as wireless charging pad, Harman/Kardon sound system, Wi-Fi hotspots, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Performance and Efficiency
The Compass comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft. of torque, which is also available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Its fuel efficiency is 24 city / 32 hwy MPG with a 13.5-gallon tank. It offers a smooth and well-balanced ride on both city streets and off-road trails, which is thanks to its eight-speed transmission and available driving configurations.
The Sportage has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft. of torque, which is also available in FWD and AWD. Its fuel efficiency is 25 city / 32 hwy with a 14.3-gallon fuel tank. The Sportage provides a refined and engaging driving experience with its responsive steering and agile handling.
Safety
Both SUVs prioritize safety and offer a range of advanced driver-assistance features. The Compass offers features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sportage also provides similar safety features that include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. These SUVs have earned commendable safety ratings, which makes them reliable choices for families and safety-conscious drivers.
Pricing
The Compass has an MSRP range of about $28,000 – $38,000 with a market price of about $34,000. The Kia Sportage has an MSRP range of about $26,000 – $37,000 with a market price of about $30,000. However, pricing may vary based on trim levels, optional features, and regional factors. Though the Compass is more expensive in market price, you pay for better engine performance than you would with the Sportage.
Overview
The Jeep Compass appeals to those seeking an off-road-ready SUV with a spacious cabin while the Kia Sportage offers a more sporty and modern design that comes along with a hybrid option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preferences and budget. Test-driving both SUVs (if available) could help determine which compact SUV best aligns with your needs and lifestyle.