If you're considering a Jeep Compass and wondering about its features, one question often comes up: Does the Jeep Compass have cruise control? Many drivers look for this feature to make long drives more comfortable.
Cruise control can reduce fatigue and help you maintain a steady speed on highways. But not every car or trim level includes it.
Let's take a closer look at the Jeep Compass, its cruise control options, and what you need to know before making a decision.
Cruise Control In The Jeep Compass: An Overview
The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that first appeared in 2007. Since then, it has gained popularity for its mix of city comfort and off-road ability. But technology and features can change across models and years.
Most recent Jeep Compass models, especially from 2017 onward, come with cruise control as a standard feature on most trims. Earlier models (before 2017) sometimes offered cruise control only on higher trims or as part of optional packages.
So, if you are looking at a newer Compass, you can expect cruise control to be included. However, the type of cruise control you get can vary. Some trims offer standard cruise control, while higher trims may include adaptive cruise control for more advanced driving assistance.
Standard Vs. Adaptive Cruise Control
Understanding the difference between standard and adaptive cruise control is important. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Standard Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
|---|---|---|
| Speed Set Manually | Yes | Yes |
| Maintains Distance | No | Yes |
| Automatic Braking/Acceleration | No | Yes |
| Available on All Trims | Most | Higher trims |
Standard cruise control lets you set your speed, but you still need to brake and accelerate if traffic changes. Adaptive cruise control adjusts your speed automatically to keep a safe distance from the car ahead. This feature is becoming more common in SUVs like the Compass, especially in top trims.
Which Jeep Compass Models Include Cruise Control?
Jeep Compass trims and features can change each year. Here’s a look at recent model years and their cruise control options:
| Model Year | Base Trim Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Standard | Available (Limited/Trailhawk) |
| 2023 | Standard | Available (Limited/Trailhawk) |
| 2022 | Standard | Optional (Higher trims) |
| 2019-2021 | Standard on most | Optional (Select trims) |
| 2017-2018 | Standard on most | Rare/Optional |
| Pre-2017 | Optional/Higher trims | Not available |
As you can see, most Jeep Compass vehicles from 2017 onward include cruise control on the base trim. Adaptive cruise control appears mainly on higher trims like Limited or Trailhawk, or as part of safety packages.
How To Use Cruise Control In The Jeep Compass
Using cruise control in the Jeep Compass is simple, but knowing how it works can help you avoid common mistakes:
- Turn on Cruise Control: Press the cruise control button on the steering wheel.
- Set Your Speed: When you reach your desired speed, press the ‘Set’ button.
- Adjust Speed: Use the ‘+’ or ‘–’ buttons to increase or decrease your set speed.
- Cancel/Resume: To cancel, tap the brakes or press the ‘Cancel’ button. To resume, press ‘Resume.’
For adaptive cruise control (if equipped), you can also set the distance you want to keep from the car ahead. The car will then slow down or speed up as needed.
Common mistake: Some drivers forget to check if the system is on or set correctly. Always look for a cruise control icon on your instrument cluster.
Real-world Benefits Of Cruise Control
Cruise control offers more than just comfort. Here are a few benefits:
- Reduces driver fatigue during long highway drives.
- Helps maintain steady speeds, which can improve fuel economy.
- Minimizes the risk of speeding tickets by keeping you at a set speed.
- In adaptive systems, it increases safety by reducing the need for constant speed adjustments.
Non-obvious insight: On some Compass trims, the cruise control system will disengage automatically if you drive up or down steep hills. Always be ready to take control in these situations.
What To Watch Out For
While cruise control is useful, there are some things to keep in mind:
- Not all trims have adaptive cruise control. Double-check the exact trim and package before you buy.
- Cruise control doesn’t work well in heavy traffic or on winding roads. It’s best for open highways.
- Weather conditions like rain or snow can affect how well adaptive systems work, because sensors may be blocked or less accurate.
Another common oversight: Some buyers assume all features are standard. Always confirm with your dealer or check the owner’s manual for your specific Compass model.
How Jeep Compass Compares To Other Suvs
If you’re also looking at other compact SUVs, you may wonder how the Compass stacks up for cruise control features. Here’s a quick comparison with similar models:
| Model | Standard Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Compass | Most trims | Higher trims/options |
| Toyota RAV4 | All trims | All trims |
| Honda CR-V | All trims | All trims |
| Hyundai Tucson | All trims | Most trims |
| Mazda CX-5 | All trims | Higher trims/options |
Some competitors now include adaptive cruise control on all trims, while Jeep usually reserves it for higher Compass trims. This is important if advanced driver assistance is a top priority for you.
