Buying a used car is never simple. Many people ask, “Is the 2019 Jeep Compass a good car?” It’s a fair question, especially if you want a reliable, affordable, and practical SUV. The Compass sits between the smaller Renegade and the larger Cherokee, making it a popular choice for city drivers and small families. But how does it really perform? Let’s explore its strengths, weaknesses, and what you should know before buying.
Performance And Handling
The 2019 Jeep Compass comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. These numbers are enough for daily driving, but the engine can feel slow when you want quick acceleration. Most models use a six-speed automatic or nine-speed automatic transmission. The nine-speed is only available with all-wheel drive.
While driving, the Compass feels stable on city roads and light off-roading. It’s not as sporty as some competitors, but the steering is responsive and easy to control. The ride quality is comfortable, though you may notice some road noise at higher speeds.
Key performance facts:
- 0–60 mph in about 9 seconds
- Front-wheel or all-wheel drive options
- Towing capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs
Interior And Comfort
Inside, the Compass offers a modern cabin with soft-touch materials and smart design. The layout is simple, and the Uconnect infotainment system is user-friendly. You get a 7-inch touchscreen as standard, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Seating is comfortable for four adults. The rear seats fold down for extra cargo space. Some trims offer leather upholstery and heated seats, making them more luxurious.
Interior features:
- Cargo space: 27.2 cubic feet (with seats up)
- Folding rear seats for larger items
- Available dual-zone climate control
One thing that surprises many buyers is the limited rear legroom. If you often drive with adults in the back, the Compass may feel cramped.
Safety And Reliability
Safety is a big concern for any car buyer. The 2019 Jeep Compass received four stars out of five from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It offers several advanced safety features, but some are only available on higher trims.
Available safety tech:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
- Forward collision warning
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the Compass “Good” in most crash tests. Reliability is average for this model. Some owners report minor issues with electronics and the transmission, but major breakdowns are rare.
Fuel Economy And Running Costs
When it comes to fuel economy, the Compass is average for its class. The EPA rates it at 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for front-wheel drive, and slightly less for all-wheel drive models. Maintenance costs are typical for a compact SUV.
Estimated yearly costs:
- Fuel: $1,400–$1,600 (depending on driving habits)
- Insurance: $1,100–$1,300
- Maintenance: $600–$900
A common mistake is ignoring the cost of repairs after warranty. Jeep parts can be more expensive than Japanese brands, so plan ahead.
Trim Levels And Features
The 2019 Compass comes in four main trims:
- Sport – Basic features, best for budget buyers
- Latitude – Adds more comfort and tech
- Limited – Luxury touches, leather seats, advanced safety
- Trailhawk – Special for off-road, higher ground clearance
Most buyers choose the Latitude or Limited for their balance of price and features. The Trailhawk is popular among those who want real off-road ability.
Here’s a simple table comparing the trims:
| Trim | Main Features | Price (Used) |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | Basic tech, cloth seats | $16,000–$18,000 |
| Latitude | Touchscreen, alloy wheels | $18,500–$21,000 |
| Limited | Leather, advanced safety | $21,500–$24,000 |
| Trailhawk | Off-road, tow hooks | $20,000–$23,500 |
How Does The Compass Compare?
Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Compass offers good value but lags in reliability and resale value. The CR-V is more spacious and fuel-efficient, while the RAV4 is famous for its durability.
See how the Compass stacks up:
| Model | MPG (City/Highway) | Reliability | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Compass | 22/31 | Average | 27.2 cu ft |
| Honda CR-V | 28/34 | Above average | 39.2 cu ft |
| Toyota RAV4 | 26/35 | Excellent | 37.6 cu ft |
Many beginners overlook resale value. Jeeps tend to lose value faster than Hondas or Toyotas. If you plan to sell after a few years, this is important.
Smart Buying Tips
If you’re considering a 2019 Compass, keep these tips in mind:
- Check for recalls. Some models had recalls for the transmission and electrical systems.
- Test all electronics during your inspection.
- Ask for service records. A well-maintained Compass is less likely to have problems.
- Consider extended warranty if buying from a dealer.
- Compare prices in your local area. Sometimes, the same trim costs less in different regions.
A non-obvious tip: The Trailhawk trim often has fewer owners, so it may be in better condition. Also, many Compass owners forget to check the spare tire and tools—make sure they are included.
Final Thoughts
The 2019 Jeep Compass is a solid choice for drivers who want a stylish, comfortable, and affordable SUV. It’s not the fastest or most reliable, but it offers good tech and off-road ability, especially in the Trailhawk trim. If you value comfort and design more than speed or resale value, the Compass fits well. Always check the car’s history, and compare with rivals before buying. For more detailed specs and reviews, visit the Edmunds Jeep Compass 2019 page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2019 Jeep Compass Good For Off-roading?
The Trailhawk trim is made for off-road driving. It has higher ground clearance, skid plates, and tow hooks. Other trims are best for city or highway driving.
What Are Common Problems With The 2019 Jeep Compass?
Owners report issues like transmission hesitation, electrical glitches, and noisy brakes. Most problems are minor but check for recalls before buying.
How Much Does It Cost To Own A 2019 Jeep Compass?
Annual costs include fuel ($1,400–$1,600), insurance ($1,100–$1,300), and maintenance ($600–$900). Repairs can be pricier than Japanese brands.
Is The Compass Safe For Families?
The Compass has four stars from NHTSA and “Good” ratings from IIHS. Advanced safety tech is available, but not standard on all trims.
How Does The Compass Compare To The Honda Cr-v?
The CR-V is more reliable and spacious, with better fuel economy. The Compass is stylish and offers better off-road options but loses value faster.
