The 2016 Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that attracts many buyers with its affordable price and classic Jeep look. But is it really a good car?
This is a question many people ask when shopping for a used SUV.
While the Compass has some strengths, it also has a few weak points you need to consider. Let’s look closer at the 2016 Jeep Compass to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
What The 2016 Jeep Compass Offers
The 2016 Jeep Compass is a small SUV that can seat up to five people. It comes in several trims: Sport, Latitude, and High Altitude. You can choose either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which is good if you need more grip in bad weather.
Engine choices include a 2.0-liter and a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. The smaller engine produces 158 horsepower, while the 2.4-liter gives you 172 horsepower. Neither engine is very fast, but they are enough for daily driving.
The Compass has a simple interior with basic controls. There’s enough room in the front, but the back seat can feel tight for adults. The cargo space is about 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and you can fold the seats for more space.
Performance And Driving Experience
You shouldn’t expect a sporty drive with the 2016 Compass. The steering is light, and the ride is comfortable on smooth roads.
However, the Compass can feel rough on bumpy roads, and the engine gets noisy when you push it hard.
The all-wheel-drive system is a plus for snow or light off-roading, but it’s not made for serious trails. Most drivers will be fine with the front-wheel-drive version for city and highway use.
Fuel Economy And Maintenance Costs
Fuel economy is one reason people pick the Compass. The 2.0-liter engine with front-wheel drive gets about 26 mpg combined (23 city/30 highway). The 2.4-liter with all-wheel drive averages 22 mpg combined (20 city/26 highway).
Insurance and repair costs are usually low because parts are easy to find. Still, the Compass is known for needing more repairs as it gets older, especially with high mileage.
Common Problems And Reliability
The 2016 Compass has average reliability. According to many owners, the most common problems are:
- Transmission issues: Some models with the CVT automatic can have shifting problems.
- Electrical glitches: Things like the radio or power windows may stop working.
- Suspension noise: You might hear clunks over bumps as the car ages.
Most problems are not dangerous, but they can be annoying and cost money to fix. Before you buy, ask for a vehicle history report and have a mechanic check the car.
Safety Features And Crash Test Ratings
The Compass comes with basic safety features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and front/side airbags. However, it does not offer advanced features like blind-spot warning or lane departure warning, which are common in newer SUVs.
In crash tests, the 2016 Compass received mixed results. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it 4 out of 5 stars for overall safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated it “Acceptable” in most tests but “Poor” for small overlap front crashes.
Interior Comfort And Tech
Inside, the Compass feels simple and practical. The seats are comfortable enough for short trips, but they may feel stiff on long drives.
Some models come with heated seats and a sunroof, but don’t expect luxury materials.
Tech features are basic, with options like a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. There is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which you’ll find in newer cars.
How The 2016 Compass Compares To Competitors
When looking at other compact SUVs, the Compass stands out for its price and Jeep styling. But it falls behind in performance and features compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Model | Horsepower | Fuel Economy (mpg combined) | Cargo Space (cu ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Jeep Compass | 158-172 | 22-26 | 22.7 |
| 2016 Honda CR-V | 185 | 29 | 37.2 |
| 2016 Toyota RAV4 | 176 | 26 | 38.4 |
| 2016 Mazda CX-5 | 155-184 | 28 | 34.1 |
Price And Value For Money
The main reason people choose the 2016 Compass is the affordable price. Used models often cost less than similar SUVs. You can usually find a good one for $10,000-$13,000 depending on mileage and condition.
Here’s what you get for your money:
- Jeep styling and off-road image
- Lower price than most rivals
- Basic features for daily driving
But you may give up on comfort, performance, and advanced tech.
Two Insights Many Buyers Overlook
- Resale value drops quickly: The Compass loses value faster than Japanese rivals. If you plan to sell after a few years, you may not get a high price.
- Older design: The 2016 Compass was near the end of its model life. The next generation (2017+) is much improved, so the 2016 feels older in design and tech.
Should You Buy A 2016 Jeep Compass?
If you need a cheap, simple SUV for city driving or winter weather, the 2016 Compass can work for you. It’s best for buyers on a tight budget who want the Jeep look and don’t need advanced features.
However, if you want more comfort, better gas mileage, or the latest safety tech, it’s smart to look at other SUVs. Always check the car’s history and have a mechanic inspect it before buying.
