Jeep Compass Longitude: Considered the best in its category, even after seven years since its launch, we conducted a test of 2,200 km to assess its attributes.
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During the assessment, we analyzed the performance, comfort, technology, and design of the Compass, as well as its performance in different terrains and situations.
Jeep's mid-size SUV stands out for its robustness and ability to tackle challenging terrains, remaining relevant over the years.
In terms of technology, the Compass offers an intuitive interface and modern features, providing a connected experience.
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The design of the Compass is striking and imposing, with quality materials that convey durability and sophistication.
After the test, we concluded that the Jeep Compass Longitude remains an attractive option in the segment, maintaining its relevant attributes even in the face of the category's renewal.
For those looking for a nearly new used car, the Jeep Compass is an option to consider, given its established reputation in the market.
History and Versions of the Jeep Compass Longitude
The Jeep Compass Longitude had a discreet presence in Brazil during its first generation, but the story began to change with the launch of the second generation in 2016.
Now locally manufactured, the Compass features a more sophisticated design and options for flex, diesel, and hybrid engines. It is the only option on the market with a turbocharged diesel engine and all-wheel drive.
In terms of sales, the Compass leads the category, with around 45 thousand units sold in 2022, surpassing its competitors, such as the Corolla Cross, Taos and Tiggo 8/Tiggo 7.
The success of the Compass is due to the variety of versions and engines offered, as well as the quality and reputation of the Jeep brand, which has earned consumer trust over the years.
The Jeep Compass is one of the most sought-after vehicles by medium SUV buyers in Brazil, solidifying its position as a market leader.
Mechanics of the Jeep Compass Longitude
The Jeep Compass stands out in the Brazilian market for incorporating successful mechanical and engine components from other models of the brand, such as the Renegade and the Toro.
The vehicle uses the Small Wide 4×4 platform, shared with other models such as the Renegade and Toro, and also utilized by other brands like Alfa Romeo and Tiggo.
With a length of 4.40 meters, the Compass offers a good size for its purposes. It features McPherson suspension at the front and multilink at the rear, as well as disc brakes on all four wheels.
The highlight of the Compass is the GSE Fire T270 engine, featuring MultiAir III technology, which provides fuel efficiency and power. With up to 180 horsepower, the engine is modern, made of aluminum, and has direct injection.
Regarding the finish, the Compass features interesting details, such as foam protection on the oil dipstick and acoustic and thermal insulation. However, the lighting system has received criticism, especially the headlights, which do not provide adequate illumination.
In summary, the Jeep Compass stands out for its tested and approved mechanics, sharing components with other successful models from the brand. Its platform, size, and engine offer good performance and efficiency, but the lighting system, especially the headlights, falls short compared to the competition.
Interior and Equipment
The car's interior features a simple finish, with padded covering on the dashboard and doors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and seats covered in lower quality leather.
Some details indicate the vehicle's simple origin in Brazil. The exterior of the compact SUV reveals a plastic finish that conveys a sense of simplicity, which is disappointing considering its price range.
The multimedia center and steering wheel controls can be imprecise and cumbersome, and the turn signal switch is problematic. The instrument panel is better than in the top-of-the-line versions, featuring analog indicators, a digital screen with various information, and good usability.
The multimedia system features a 10-inch screen with native navigation and wireless mirroring for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The physical air conditioning controls are mirrored on the screen.
The interior offers cup holders, a key holder, an adjustable armrest, and a small storage compartment. The seats are comfortable, with good lumbar support and side bolsters, but the headrest can push forward.
The steering wheel has telescopic adjustment, but it is offset in relation to the seat, which can be uncomfortable. The pedals are well positioned, with good support for the left foot. Overall, the car offers good ergonomics, despite some points of simplicity and oversights in the design.
Interior Space and Safety
In terms of internal space, the Jeep Compass offers good legroom, but the seat can be uncomfortable on longer trips. There is a good armrest and individual air vents for rear passengers, along with USB and 12-volt outlets. Headroom and lateral space are adequate, and the car is equipped with safety handles on all four sides.
Regarding safety, the Compass has a solid package, including six airbags, headrests, and seatbelts for all occupants, ISOFIX hooks for child seats, and traction and stability control. However, it has not yet been evaluated by Euro NCAP in terms of structural behavior.
Regarding the options, the Compass offers a panoramic sunroof, electric operation, and a curtain that completely blocks the entry of sunlight. There is also a Premium package, featuring front and side parking sensors, an automatic parking system, a wireless charger, and a Premium Beats sound system.
After evaluating the interior space and safety of the Jeep Compass, we can conclude that, despite the discomfort of the seat, the car offers a good environment for rear passengers. As for safety, it has a complete package, although it has not been assessed by the etnam Cap. Options like the sunroof and the Premium package add value to the vehicle.
Trunk
In terms of the trunk, the Jeep Compass offers a capacity of 410 liters, which is smaller compared to other midsize SUVs. The payload capacity is also limited, with only 400 kilograms. The trunk finishing is good, featuring plastic lining on the sides and the lid. The floor is adjustable to two levels, allowing for the storage of spare wheels. Additionally, there are tools and a small space for emergency fuel. Although the volume is slightly below expectations, the fuel tank has a capacity of 60 liters.
However, it is important to mention that the fuel consumption of the Compass may reduce the vehicle's range in certain cases, as it tends to be a bit thirstier.
In summary, although the trunk of the Jeep Compass is smaller compared to other mid-size SUVs, the finish is good and there are adjustment options for better space utilization. The load capacity is limited, and fuel consumption may affect the range.
Driveability
The handling of the Compass is one of its strong points. With a well-measured and easy-to-use accelerator, the car offers a smooth driving experience, especially in urban environments. In addition, the sport mode available on the central console allows for a more responsive accelerator, making the driving experience even more engaging.
Performance:
The performance of the Compass is remarkable, especially in specific situations. The brake, just like the accelerator, is well calibrated, providing safe and efficient braking. The sport mode does not necessarily increase the vehicle's performance but makes the responses a bit more agile.
Transmission and gearbox:
The transmission of the Compass is smooth and efficient. In drive mode, the gear shifts are seamless, while in manual mode, the shifts are crisper. However, some users may notice a feeling of slipping during gear changes, especially in rapid acceleration situations.
Suspension:
The suspension of the Compass is firm yet comfortable. The car absorbs the irregularities of the terrain well, without transmitting discomfort to the occupants. Even on potholed roads, the suspension maintains stability and comfort without reaching the end of its travel.
Engine and performance:
The Compass engine delivers good performance, even though it is a heavy vehicle. The turbo shows its power from 1,800 RPM, providing strong acceleration and quick recoveries. Even on uphill climbs and with a full car, the 180-horsepower engine does not disappoint, allowing for fast and safe driving.
Fuel consumption of the Jeep Compass Longitude
In lighter traffic conditions, such as in January, the car showed an average fuel consumption of 9 to 9.5 km/l with ethanol and 9.5 to 10 km/l with gasoline, traveling between 50 and 60 km/h on avenues in São Paulo.
On the road, at speeds of 110 to 115 km/h, the vehicle, with two passengers and the air conditioning on, achieved an average fuel consumption of 9.5 to 10 km/l with ethanol and 12 to 12.5 km/l with gasoline.
Under similar light traffic conditions in the city, the car achieved an average of 12 to 12.5 km/l, while on the highway, with four passengers and the air conditioning on, it obtained an average of 13 km/l.
Despite being considered a heavy car with a small engine, the vehicle's fuel consumption is not as efficient as expected. Compared to other cars in the same category, such as the Peugeot 3008, the car in question has a higher consumption. The Peugeot 3008, with similar weight and size and a larger displacement engine (1.6), achieved an average of 17 km/l at highway speeds, even with the air conditioning on.
Considering the official numbers from Inmetro, this car is considered one of the most fuel-consuming in its category. While it is understandable that a heavy car has a lower average, there is still a sense that fuel consumption could be better. Compared to other similar models, the difference in fuel consumption is significant, indicating a possible area for improvement for the car in question.
Positive and Negative Points of the Jeep Compass Longitude
The car's performance is a highlight, even being a mid-size SUV with a weight of 1,600 kg. The GSE turbo engine provides excellent performance, making the Compass a great choice for those looking for a powerful vehicle.
The suspension of the Compass also receives praise, whether in terms of ride comfort or dynamic behavior. The car features a suspension setup that offers a firm driving experience without being uncomfortable, and excellent cornering capability.
Among the negative points, fuel consumption is a known factor. The Firefly turbo GSE engine is not known for being economical, and the car's heavy weight makes the situation even more challenging. Compared to its direct competitors, such as the 3008 and the Corolla, the Compass has a disadvantageous consumption.
Another negative point is the quality of the headlights. Although it features LED technology, the headlight set leaves much to be desired, with a short and narrow beam, resulting in unsatisfactory illumination. This aspect is incompatible with the category and price of the car, especially considering the almost Premium positioning attributed to the Compass.
After evaluating the positive and negative points, the Jeep Compass stands out for its performance and well-tuned suspension. However, fuel consumption and the quality of the headlights are aspects that need to be considered before purchasing the vehicle. If you are looking for power and a comfortable drive, but are willing to deal with relatively high fuel consumption and less efficient headlights, the Compass could be a viable option for you.
Conclusion
The Jeep Compass, equipped with optional packages and metallic paint, has a high price of 197 thousand reais in Brazil. While it is understandable that cars are not cheap nowadays, the Compass gives the impression of being a simpler vehicle than it should be, especially compared to high-end compact models that offer more space, trunk, versatility, and sometimes even more features, for a price 20 to 30 thousand reais lower.
In the Flex versions, the Compass may not be as advantageous in terms of cost-benefit. However, if the preference is for a mid-size SUV with a turbo diesel engine, the situation may change a bit. Nonetheless, this could be indicative of a category facing some stagnation and decline, where the Compass and its competitors leave the impression of being simple cars; the Corolla Cross is even worse in this regard, the Peugeot 3008 is good but expensive and not suited for our terrain, while other models in the competition are merely figurative.
The conclusion is not limited to the Compass, but also extends to the category of mid-size SUVs as a whole. Is it worth paying so much more for a car that, often, will just be larger? Wouldn't it be more advantageous to save money and choose a more equipped compact SUV, with better performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for driving in big cities? The impression is that the mid-size SUV category is losing its appeal, but it's important to emphasize that each case is unique and that, if someone is determined to have a mid-size SUV and doesn't mind the aspects...
