Jeep Compass Longitude: Considered the best in its category, even after seven years of launch, we carried out a 2.200 km test to evaluate its attributes.
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During the evaluation, we analyze the performance, comfort, technology and design of the Compass, as well as its performance in different terrains and situations.
Jeep's midsize SUV stands out for its robustness and ability to tackle challenging terrain, remaining relevant over the years.
In terms of technology, 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 testing, we concluded that the Jeep Compass Longitude continues to be an attractive option in the segment, maintaining its relevant attributes even before the category renewal.
For those looking for a pre-owned car, the Jeep Compass is an option to consider, given its consolidated reputation in the market.
History and Versions of the Jeep Compass Longitude
The Jeep Compass Longitude had a discreet presence in Brazil in its first generation, but its history began to change with the launch of the second generation in 2016.
Now manufactured locally, the Compass has a more elaborate design and flex, diesel and hybrid engine options. It is the only option on the market with a turbodiesel engine and traction on four wheels.
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, in addition to the quality and reputation of the Jeep brand, which has gained the trust of consumers over the years.
The Jeep Compass is one of the most desired vehicles by buyers of mid-size SUVs in Brazil, consolidating its position as a market leader.
Jeep Compass Longitude Mechanics
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 Toro.
The vehicle uses the Small Wide 4×4 platform, shared with other models, such as the Renegade and Toro, and also used by other brands such as Alfa Romeo and Tiggo.
At 4,40 meters long, the Compass presents a good size for its purposes. It has McPherson suspension at the front and multilink at the rear, plus disc brakes on four wheels.
The highlight of the Compass is the GSE Fire T270 engine, with MultiAir III technology, which provides fuel economy and power. With up to 180 horsepower, the engine is modern, made of aluminum and has direct injection.
When finished, the Compass presents interesting details, such as foam protection on the oil wand and acoustic and thermal blanket. However, the lighting system has received criticism, especially the headlights, which do not offer adequate lighting.
In short, the Jeep Compass stands out for its proven and approved mechanics, sharing components with other successful models of the brand. Its platform, size and motorization offer good performance and efficiency, but the lighting system, especially the headlights, leaves much to be desired in comparison with the competence.
Interior and Equipment
The interior of the car has a simple finish, with padded covering on the floor and doors, steering wheel covered in leather and seats with leather upholstery of inferior quality.
Some details denote the simple origin of the vehicle in Brazil. The exterior of the compact SUV reveals a plastic finish that conveys a feeling of simplicity, which is disappointing considering its price range.
The controls for the multimedia center and steering wheel can be imprecise and heavy, and the flashing switch is problematic. The instrument panel is better than the top of the range versions, with analog indicators, digital display with various information and good usability.
A central 10-inch multimedia display with native navigation and wireless duplication for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The physical controls of the air conditioning are reflected on the screen.
The interior offers pot holders, space for keys, an adjustable armrest and a small storage chest. The seats are comfortable, with good lumbar support and lateral support, but the headrest can be pushed upwards.
The steering wheel has telescopic adjustment, but it is displaced in relation to the seat, which can be uncomfortable. The pedals are well positioned, with good support for the left foot. In general, the coach offers good ergonomics, despite some points of simplicity and design flaws.
Internal Space and Security
In terms of interior space, the Jeep Compass offers plenty of space for the legs, but the seat can be uncomfortable on long journeys. There is good arm support and individual air outlets for the rear passengers, as well as USB and 12 volt sockets. The space for the head and sides is adequate, and the car has safety wings on four sides.
Regarding safety, the Compass has a solid package that includes six airbags, headrests and safety belts for all occupants, isofix hooks for child seats and traction and stability control. However, it has not yet been evaluated by etnam Cap in terms of structural behavior.
As for options, the Compass offers a panoramic solar roof, electric drive and a curtain that completely blocks out sunlight. There is also a Premium package, with front and side parking sensors, automatic parking system, wireless charger and Premium Beats sound system.
After evaluating the interior space and safety of the Jeep Compass, we can conclude that, despite the inconvenience of seating, the car offers a good environment for rear passengers. Regarding security, it counts with a complete package, although it has not been evaluated by the Captain. Optional options, such as the solar technology and the Premium package, add more value to the vehicle.
Trunk
Regarding the trunk, the Jeep Compass has a capacity of 410 liters, which is smaller compared to other medium SUVs. The load capacity is also limited, with only 400 kilos. The finish of the trunk is good, with plastic coating on the sides and on the cover. The floor is adjustable to two levels, allowing the storage of spare parts. Additionally, there are tools and a small space for emergency fuel. Despite having a little less volume than expected, the fuel tank has a capacity of 60 liters.
However, it is important to mention that the fuel consumption of the Compass can reduce the vehicle's autonomy in certain cases, which tends to be a little more wasteful.
In short, although the trunk of the Jeep Compass is smaller compared to other average SUVs, the finish is good and there are adjustment options for better use of space. Cargo capacity is limited and fuel consumption can affect range.
Manageability
The Compass's drivability is one of its strong points. With a well-dosed and easy-to-use accelerator, the car offers a peaceful drive, especially in urban environments. Furthermore, the sport mode available on the central console allows for a more agile response from the accelerator, making the driving experience more engaging.
Performance:
Compass performance is notable, especially in specific situations. The brake, like the accelerator, is well-dosed, providing safe and efficient braking. The sport mode does not necessarily increase the vehicle's performance, but the responses are a little more agile.
Transmission and gearbox:
Compass transmission is smooth and efficient. In driving mode, gearshifts are smooth, whereas in manual mode, gearshifts are drier. However, some users may notice a slipping sensation during gear changes, especially in situations of rapid acceleration.
Suspension:
The Compass suspension is firm, but comfortable. The car absorbs irregularities in the terrain well, without transmitting discomfort to the occupants. Even on roads with seats, the suspension maintains stability and comfort, without reaching the end of your route.
Engine and performance:
The Compass engine offers good performance, even with a heavy vehicle. The turbine has power from 1,800 revolutions, providing strong acceleration and agile recovery. Even with pendants and a full car, the 180-horsepower engine doesn't disappoint, allowing for fast and safe driving.
Fuel consumption of the Jeep Compass Longitude
In lighter traffic conditions, such as during heavy months, the car had an average consumption of 9 to 9,5 km/l with alcohol and 9,5 to 10 km/l with gasoline, when traveling between 50 and 60 km/h along the avenues of São Paulo.
On the road, with speeds of 110 to 115 km/h, the vehicle, with the passengers and air conditioning on, obtains an average consumption of 9,5 to 10 km/l with ethanol and 12 to 12,5 km/l with gasoline.
In similar conditions of light traffic 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 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 more flexible engine (1.6), achieved an average of 17 km/l at road speeds, even with the air conditioning on.
Considering the official Inmetro figures, this car is considered one of those that consumes the most fuel in its category. Although it is understandable that a heavy car has a lower average, there is no feeling that consumption could be better. Compared to other similar models, the difference in fuel consumption is significant, which indicates a possible area of improvement for the car in cuestion.
Positive and Negative Points of the Jeep Compass Longitude
The performance of the car is outstanding, even if it is a medium SUV weighing 1.600 kg. El GSE turbo engine It offers excellent performance, making the Compass a great option for those looking for a powerful vehicle.
The Compass suspension also receives praise, and in terms of driving comfort and dynamic behavior. The car features a suspension adjustment that offers a firm, hassle-free ride and an excellent ability to take curves.
Among the negative points, fuel consumption is a well-known factor. The Firefly turbo GSE engine is not known for being economical, and the high weight of the car 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. Even though it features LED technology, the set of headlights takes as much as you want, with a short and narrow haze, resulting in unsatisfactory lighting. This aspect is incompatible with the category and price of the car, especially considering the Premium positioning that is attributed to the Compass.
After evaluating the positive and negative points, the Jeep Compass stands out for its performance and well-adjusted suspension. However, fuel consumption and headlight quality are aspects that must be considered before purchasing the vehicle. If you are looking for power and comfortable driving, but are willing to deal with relatively high 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. Although it is understandable that coaches are not cheap nowadays, the Compass has the impression of being a simpler vehicle than it should be, especially in comparison with high-end compact models that offer more space, trunk, versatility and, sometimes, including more equipment, for a value of 20 to 30 thousand reais less.
In the Flex versions, the Compass may not be as advantageous in terms of cost-benefit. However, if the preference is for a medium SUV with a turbo diesel engine, the situation can change a little. However, this could be indicative of a category that faces certain stagnation and decadence, where the Compass and its competitors give the impression of being simple coaches; The Corolla Cross is even worse in this aspect, the Peugeot 3008 is good, but expensive and not adapted to our floor, although other models in competition are only figurative.
The conclusion is not limited to the Compass alone, but it also extends to the category of average SUVs as a whole. Is it worth paying so much more for a car that, many times, will be just bigger? Wouldn't it be more advantageous to save and choose a better-equipped compact SUV, with better performance, consumption and practicality for traveling in large cities? The impression is that the category of average SUVs is losing attractiveness, but it is important to highlight that each case is unique and that, if someone is determined to have an average SUV and the aspects don't matter.
