The 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude stands out in the compact SUV world for its blend of affordability, comfort, and classic Jeep style. Many shoppers see it as a practical choice for city driving and light outdoor adventures.
But how does it really perform, and what do owners and experts say about it? This review covers the key strengths, weaknesses, and features you should know before buying a used Compass Latitude from 2014.
Key Features And Performance
Jeep aimed to balance value and utility with the 2014 Compass Latitude. Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 172 horsepower. For daily driving, this offers enough power for city and highway use, though it can feel a bit sluggish when the SUV is fully loaded.
The Compass Latitude comes with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for those who need more traction in bad weather. Fuel economy is average for the class, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for FWD models.
One detail many buyers miss is the Freedom Drive II Off-Road package. This adds a low-range mode for the transmission, skid plates, and tow hooks—making the Compass surprisingly capable off-road, but it does impact fuel efficiency.
Interior Comfort And Technology
Inside, the Compass Latitude offers a comfortable ride for up to five people. The seats are upholstered in premium cloth, and the driver’s seat is height-adjustable for better visibility. Heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are standard, adding to comfort in colder climates.
Cargo space is decent for a small SUV, with 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold the rear seats down, and you get up to 53.6 cubic feet. However, the rear seats don’t fold completely flat, which can make loading large items tricky—a detail many owners only notice after purchase.
Standard tech includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system. The interface is basic but easy to use. Navigation is optional, and higher trims add features like a sunroof and premium audio.
Safety And Reliability
The 2014 Compass Latitude received mixed safety ratings. The NHTSA gave it four out of five stars overall, while the IIHS rated it “Acceptable” in most crash tests. Standard safety features include front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.
One insight often missed is the lack of advanced driver aids. You won’t find features like blind spot monitoring or lane departure warning, which are common in newer SUVs.
This can be a drawback for families or safety-focused buyers.
Reliability is average. According to owner surveys, the Compass Latitude has a fair record for durability, but it’s important to check service records for past transmission or electrical issues.
Driving Experience
On the road, the Compass Latitude delivers a smooth ride over most surfaces. Steering is light and easy for city driving, though it lacks the precise feel of some rivals. The suspension soaks up bumps well, but sharp turns reveal some body roll.
Noise insulation is average; you’ll hear some engine and wind noise at highway speeds. The all-wheel-drive version adds confidence in snow or rain, but don’t expect the same off-road capability as larger Jeeps.
What surprises some drivers is the short turning radius, which makes parking easier than expected for an SUV. However, visibility to the rear can be limited by thick roof pillars.
Ownership Costs
One reason many choose the 2014 Compass Latitude is its affordable price. As a used vehicle, it often costs less than rivals from Toyota or Honda. Insurance rates and maintenance costs are also reasonable.
Resale value is below average, mainly due to stiff competition and Jeep’s mixed reputation for reliability. It’s wise to budget for regular maintenance, especially if buying a high-mileage example.
For buyers in snowy areas, the optional all-wheel drive and heated seats are worth the extra cost. However, adding options can quickly close the price gap with better-equipped competitors.
Comparing The 2014 Compass Latitude
Here’s how the Compass Latitude compares with similar SUVs:
| Model | Horsepower | MPG (City/Hwy) | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude | 172 | 21/28 | 53.6 |
| 2014 Honda CR-V EX | 185 | 23/31 | 70.9 |
| 2014 Ford Escape SE | 178 | 22/31 | 67.8 |
Compared to these rivals, the Compass offers lower cargo space and horsepower, but often costs less on the used market.
Common Issues And Owner Insights
Owners report a few recurring problems:
- Transmission concerns: Some drivers notice rough shifting or hesitation, especially on older, higher-mileage models.
- Electrical glitches: Issues with power windows or audio systems can appear.
- Interior wear: The cloth seats and dashboard materials may show signs of aging faster than expected.
A practical tip: Always check for recalls and ask for a full service history before buying. This helps spot hidden problems early.
Value And Who Should Buy
The 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude is best for buyers who want a budget-friendly SUV with Jeep style and simple features. It works well for city drivers, students, or small families who don’t need advanced tech or lots of power.
It’s not the top choice for serious off-road use or those needing lots of cargo space. For those needs, models like the Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester may fit better.
For an in-depth look at crash test results and more specs, check the official NHTSA website.
At-a-glance: Pros And Cons
This summary highlights the key strengths and weaknesses:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low used price | Average reliability |
| Heated seats standard | No advanced safety tech |
| Simple, rugged design | Low resale value |
| Optional AWD | Limited cargo space |
Frequently Asked Questions
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“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-2dd1ceaf09e1″,”title”:”What Is The Fuel Economy Of The 2014 Compass Latitude?”,”content”:”Front-wheel-drive models get 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. All-wheel-drive versions are slightly less efficient.
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The 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude delivers solid value for drivers who want a practical SUV without stretching their budget. Just be sure to check for common issues and consider your needs before buying.
“,”visible”:true}]} –>Is The 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude Reliable?
Reliability is average. Most owners have few major issues, but some report transmission and electrical problems. Checking service history is important before buying.
What Is The Fuel Economy Of The 2014 Compass Latitude?
Front-wheel-drive models get 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. All-wheel-drive versions are slightly less efficient.
Does The 2014 Compass Latitude Have Bluetooth And A Touchscreen?
Yes, the Latitude trim includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth as standard features.
Is The 2014 Compass Latitude Good For Winter Driving?
With all-wheel drive and heated seats, it handles snow and cold well. The base front-wheel-drive model is less ideal for harsh winters.
How Does The Compass Latitude Compare To The Honda Cr-v?
The Honda CR-V offers more cargo space, better fuel economy, and higher resale value. The Compass Latitude is cheaper and includes features like heated seats as standard.
The 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude delivers solid value for drivers who want a practical SUV without stretching their budget. Just be sure to check for common issues and consider your needs before buying.
