The 2017 Jeep Compass arrived at a moment when the compact SUV market was heating up. Jeep wanted a model that combined the brand’s off-road DNA with comfort for daily driving. Many buyers wondered if this new Compass could meet those expectations. Let’s explore the reviews, strengths, and weaknesses that shaped the reputation of the 2017 Compass.
Design And Interior Quality
The 2017 Compass took inspiration from the larger Grand Cherokee, giving it a bold and modern look. The exterior lines are sharp, with the classic seven-slot Jeep grille in front. Drivers appreciated the higher ground clearance, which offered a more commanding view of the road.
Inside, the cabin felt more upscale than the previous Compass model. Soft-touch materials covered most surfaces, and the dashboard layout was simple and easy to use. The rear seat gave enough space for adults, but taller passengers sometimes found the back seats a bit tight. Cargo space stood at 27.2 cubic feet with rear seats up, expanding to over 60 cubic feet when folded, which is decent for this segment.
Performance And Handling
Under the hood, the 2017 Compass featured a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Buyers could choose between a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or a 9-speed automatic transmission, depending on trim and drivetrain.
The Compass was not a speedster. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took about 9.3 seconds, slower than some rivals like the Honda CR-V. Still, the steering felt responsive, and the suspension smoothed out most bumps. The Trailhawk trim stood out, offering real off-road abilities with higher ground clearance, skid plates, and Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4×4 system.
Technology And Features
Jeep improved technology in the Compass. The base Sport trim came with a 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims, like the Limited, offered an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The infotainment system was praised for being fast and easy to navigate.
Other available features included a dual-pane sunroof, heated front seats, keyless entry, and a power liftgate. Safety options included blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert, but some features were only available on the higher trims.
Fuel Economy
The EPA ratings put the 2017 Compass at 22-23 mpg city and 30-32 mpg highway, depending on drivetrain and transmission. Real-world drivers usually reported results close to these numbers. For a compact SUV, these ratings were average but not class-leading.
Here’s a quick comparison with some main competitors:
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 Jeep Compass | 22-23 | 30-32 |
| 2017 Honda CR-V | 26-28 | 32-34 |
| 2017 Mazda CX-5 | 24-26 | 31-33 |
Safety Ratings
Safety was a strong point for the 2017 Compass. It earned four out of five stars overall from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS when equipped with certain optional features. Standard safety equipment included a rearview camera and multiple airbags.
Here is a summary of major safety features available:
- Rearview camera
- Electronic stability control
- Multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain)
- Available blind-spot monitoring
- Available forward collision warning
Owner Impressions
Many owners highlighted the comfortable ride and quiet cabin. They liked the Uconnect system and the flexibility of the rear seats. Owners of the Trailhawk trim were especially satisfied with its off-road capabilities, saying it handled dirt roads and rough weather with ease.
However, some reported issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, noting rough or slow shifts. A few also mentioned that the base engine felt underpowered for quick highway merging. While the Compass scored well for reliability in its first year, long-term data was still building in 2017.
Value And Trim Comparison
The 2017 Compass came in four main trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. Prices started around $20,995 for the base Sport and went up to about $28,995 for the Trailhawk.
Here’s a brief look at how the trims compared:
| Trim | Key Features | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | Manual transmission, basic infotainment | $20,995 |
| Latitude | Alloy wheels, upgraded interior | $24,295 |
| Limited | 8.4-inch touchscreen, leather seats | $27,395 |
| Trailhawk | Off-road package, special 4×4 system | $28,995 |
Non-obvious Insights
- The Trailhawk trim included a unique crawl ratio for tough off-road situations. Most buyers overlook this, but it makes a real difference on steep climbs or rocky trails.
- The Compass used two different rear suspensions: 4×2 models had a torsion beam, while 4×4 models got an independent setup. This small change made the 4×4 versions smoother and more stable on rough roads.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many first-time buyers confused the old-generation Compass (still sold as Compass in 2017) with the new model. Always check for the VIN or look for the newer body style.
Another mistake was expecting high performance this is an SUV for comfort and light off-roading, not sports car speed.
How It Stacks Up
The Compass sits between the smaller Renegade and the bigger Cherokee in Jeep’s lineup. It offers better off-road ability than most compact SUVs, but buyers who want the best fuel economy or the quickest acceleration might want to look elsewhere.
However, for those who need a mix of city comfort and the ability to tackle rough roads, the Compass fits the bill well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2017 Jeep Compass Reliable?
Most owners report good reliability for the 2017 Compass, especially compared to older Jeep models. However, some have mentioned problems with the automatic transmission. Checking the service history before buying a used one is smart.
How Does The 2017 Compass Perform Off-road?
The Trailhawk version is especially strong off-road, with features like skid plates, tow hooks, and Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4×4 system. Other trims can handle dirt and gravel, but the Trailhawk is the best choice for rough terrain.
What Are Common Problems With The 2017 Compass?
Some drivers noticed rough shifting or hesitation from the 9-speed automatic transmission. Others reported minor electrical issues. Most problems are covered by warranty if you buy certified pre-owned.
How Does The Compass Compare To The Honda Cr-v?
The Honda CR-V is quicker and gets better fuel economy. The Compass offers better off-road ability and a more rugged look. If you want a city-focused SUV, the CR-V is a strong pick. For adventure, the Compass has the edge.
Where Can I Find More Detailed Specs?
For full technical data and official specs, visit the Jeep official website.
The 2017 Jeep Compass is a balanced compact SUV, blending Jeep’s classic style with everyday comfort. It isn’t perfect, but for drivers who want a small SUV that can handle more than just city streets, the Compass deserves a closer look.
