Jeep Compass Vs. Jeep Cherokee Comprehensive Comparison

When you're shopping for a new compact SUV and only a legendary Jeep vehicle will do, consider the Jeep Compass vs. Cherokee SUV. These two small SUVs for sale feature the capability you expect from a Jeep vehicle with the modern tech and features you crave.
With the Jeep brand offering multiple small SUV models for sale, how do you determine which vehicle is right for you? South Shore CDJR is here for you with a comprehensive comparison of the Jeep Cherokee vs. Compass. Continue reading to see how these two sports-utes stack up in critical areas like specs, size, and more.

Jeep Compass vs. Jeep Cherokee Specs
If you're after a compact SUV that provides confident all-terrain performance, you're in good hands with either the new Jeep Compass or Jeep Cherokee. However, there are significant differences between these two Jeep SUVs regarding their specs, so let's take a look.
The latest Jeep Compass compact SUV comes equipped with a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, replacing its previously standard powertrain with greater performance and efficiency. This new turbocharged four-cylinder engine develops a healthy 200 horsepower and sends 221 pound-feet of torque to each wheel through a Jeep 4x4 system.
An eight-speed automatic is standard, ensuring this small SUV can shift smoothly and confidently through its gears and provide optimized performance and efficiency, whether on the road or the trail.
While the new Jeep Compass offers just one engine, its compact SUV sibling, the Cherokee, is available with a choice of two powertrains. First is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder producing 171 pound-feet of torque and 180 horsepower.
Opt for the Trail Rated Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, and this SUV's standard 2.4-liter engine is swapped for a 2.0-liter turbo-four motor generating 270 horsepower. Both engines are connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission and Jeep 4x4 system.
When properly equipped, both the Jeep Compass and Jeep Cherokee come with a maximum towing rating of 2,000 pounds. Cargo-hauling capabilities differ between the two, so let's look at their size and dimensions to see which model has the advantage.
The Jeep Compass MPG ratings top the fuel economy ratings of the Jeep Cherokee, but not by a wide margin, so you can enjoy efficient all-terrain performance with either model.
Jeep Compass vs. Jeep Cherokee Size
Comparing the Jeep Cherokee vs. Jeep Compass, you'll find that the Cherokee SUV is substantially longer, at 183.1 inches long, compared to the Compass SUV at 173.4 inches. It is also taller and rides on a longer wheelbase.
The Cherokee SUV's larger dimensions aid it in providing more room for occupants: its 128 cubic feet of passenger volume tops the Compass SUV's 99.6 cubic feet by a substantial margin.
However, comparing the Jeep Compass vs. Cherokee cargo capacity is a different story. The smaller Compass SUV actually tops the Cherokee model in both standard cargo space with all seats upright and maximum cargo volume when the rear seating is folded. The Jeep Cherokee cargo capacity tops out at 54.7 cubic feet, while the Jeep Compass can hold up to 59.8 cubic feet of your gear.

2023 Jeep Compass | 2023 Jeep Cherokee | |
2.0-liter Turbo I-4 | Engine | 2.4-liter I-4 |
200 | Horsepower | 180 |
221 | Torque | 171 |
Automatic | Transmission | Automatic |
4WD | Drive Type | 4WD |
99.6 cubic feet | Passenger Volume | 128 cubic feet |
27.2 cubic feet | Standard Cargo Volume | 25.8 cubic feet |
59.8 cubic feet | Maximum Cargo Capacity | 54.7 cubic feet |
2,000 pounds1 | Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds1 |

Jeep Compass vs. Jeep Cherokee Reliability
Regarding reliability, the Jeep Compass and Jeep Cherokee are neck and neck. That's because both models rely on proven Jeep powertrains, including fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, modern automatic transmission, and a Jeep 4x4 system to provide dependable performance and all-terrain capability.
Whether you opt for the Jeep Compass and its eight-speed automatic or the Jeep Cherokee and its nine-speed unit, you'll enjoy effortless acceleration and efficient transportation in both city and highway driving situations. With a Jeep 4x4 system at the ready, you can be confident driving either of these compact SUVs in all sorts of weather, road, and trail conditions.
Shop for Your Preferred Jeep Compact SUV Today
Now that you have read our Jeep Compass vs. Jeep Cherokee comparison, which of these compact SUVs do you prefer? Whether you are after a new Jeep Cherokee or Jeep Compass for sale, shop and visit your local Jeep dealer to find your ideal small SUV at a budget-friendly price.
Remember to see the latest Jeep lease deals for your opportunity to upgrade to a new Jeep SUV even more affordably than you imagined. You can also contact the South Shore CDJR sales team if you're looking for more details on how the Jeep Compass, Cherokee, or any other Jeep SUVs stack up against one another. We're here to help drivers and families find their ideal new Jeep SUV at a competitive price.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Jeep Cherokee the same as a Compass?
A Jeep Cherokee is not the same as a Jeep Compass. They are two separate models but are both classified as compact SUVs. The Jeep Cherokee is a classic Jeep compact SUV model that has been available on and off in the Jeep vehicle lineup for many decades, while the Jeep Compass is a relative newcomer to the lineup. These models are powered by different engines and offer different benefits.
Is Jeep Cherokee or Jeep Compass bigger?
The Jeep Cherokee is bigger than the Jeep Compass. The larger Jeep Cherokee measures 183.1 inches long, rides on a 106.6-inch wheelbase, and stands 66.2 inches tall in its base model. In contrast, the smaller Jeep Compass SUV is 173.4 inches long, 64.6 inches tall, and features a 103.8-inch wheelbase. Visit your Jeep dealer to compare the sizes of these SUVs.
Does the Jeep Cherokee or Jeep Compass have better MPG?
The Jeep Compass has better MPG ratings than the Jeep Cherokee. However, the differences in city and highway MPG ratings between the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass SUV models are not substantial. Both models provide highly efficient performance in both city and highway driving, thanks to a fuel-sipping four-cylinder engine and modern eight- or nine-speed automatic transmission.
1When properly equipped.