Jeep Compass Longitude: Elegance and Power in an SUV

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.

During the evaluation, we analyzed the Compass' performance, comfort, technology and design, as well as its performance in different terrains and situations.

Jeep's medium SUV stands out for its robustness and ability to face challenging terrain, remaining relevant over the years.

In terms of technology, Compass offers an intuitive interface and modern features, providing a connected experience.

The Compass' design is striking and imposing, with quality materials that convey durability and sophistication.

After the test, we concluded that the Jeep Compass Longitude continues to be an attractive option in the segment, maintaining its relevant attributes even in the face of category renewal.

For those looking for a pre-owned car, the Jeep Compass is an option worth considering, 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 in its first generation, but history began to change with the launch of the second generation in 2016.

Now manufactured locally, the Compass features a more refined design and flex, diesel and hybrid engine options. It is the only option on the market with a turbodiesel engine and four-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, in addition to the quality and reputation of the Jeep brand, which has earned the trust of consumers over the years.

The Jeep Compass is one of the most desired vehicles by mid-size SUV buyers 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 is a good size for your purposes. It has McPherson strut suspension at the front and multilink suspension at the rear, as well as disc brakes on all four wheels.

The highlight of the Compass is the GSE Fire T270 engine, with MultiAir III technology, which provides fuel and power savings. 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 blanket. However, the lighting system has received criticism, especially the headlights, which do not provide adequate illumination.

In short, the Jeep Compass stands out for its tried and tested mechanics, sharing components with the brand's other successful models. Its platform, size and engine offer good performance and efficiency, but the lighting system, especially the headlights, leave something to be desired compared to the competition.

Interior and Equipment

The interior of the car has a simple finish, with padded coverings on the dashboard and doors, a leather-covered steering wheel and seats covered in lower quality leather. 

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 multimedia center and steering wheel controls can be imprecise and cumbersome, and the arrow key is problematic. The instrument panel is better than in the top-of-the-line versions, with analog indicators, a digital screen with various information and good usability. 

The multimedia center has a 10-inch screen with native navigation and wireless mirroring for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The physical controls for the air conditioning are mirrored on the screen. 

The interior offers cup holders, a key niche, an adjustable armrest and a small storage trunk. The seats are comfortable, with good lumbar support and side support, 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 simplicity and design flaws.

Internal Space and Security

In terms of interior space, the Jeep Compass offers good legroom, but the seat cushion can be uncomfortable on longer trips. There is a good armrest and individual air vents for rear passengers, as well as USB and 12-volt sockets. Head and side space is adequate, and the car has safety straps on all four sides.

As for safety, the Compass has a solid package, including six airbags, head restraints and seat 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.

Regarding options, the Compass offers a panoramic sunroof, electric drive and curtain that completely blocks the entry of 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 discomfort of the seat cushion, the car offers a good environment for rear passengers. As for safety, it has a complete package, although it has not been evaluated by etnam Cap. Options, such as the sunroof and the Premium package, add value to the vehicle.

Trunk

When it comes to the trunk, the Jeep Compass has a capacity of 410 liters, which is smaller compared to other medium SUVs. Load capacity is also limited, at just 400 kilograms. The trunk finish is good, with plastic covering on the sides and lid. The floor is adjustable at two levels, allowing storage of spare wheels. Additionally, there are tools and a small space for emergency fuel. Despite being a little lower than expected, the fuel tank has a capacity of 60 liters.

However, it is important to mention that the Compass' fuel consumption can reduce the vehicle's range in certain cases, as it tends to be a little more wasteful.

In summary, although the Jeep Compass' trunk is smaller compared to other medium SUVs, the finish is good and there are adjustment options to make better use of the space. Load capacity is limited and fuel consumption may influence range.

drivability

The Compass' handling is one of its strong points. With a well-balanced and easy-to-use accelerator, the car offers a calm drive, especially in urban environments. Furthermore, the sport mode available on the center console allows for a more agile throttle response, making the driving experience even more engaging.

Performance:

The Compass' performance is remarkable, especially in specific situations. The brake, like the accelerator, is well dosed, providing safe and efficient braking. Sport mode does not necessarily increase the vehicle's performance, but it makes responses a little more agile.

Transmission and exchange:

The Compass' transmission is smooth and efficient. In drive mode, gear changes are smooth, while in manual mode, gear changes are smoother. However, some users may notice a slipping sensation during gear changes, especially in fast acceleration situations.

Suspension:

The Compass' suspension is firm but comfortable. The car absorbs terrain irregularities well, without causing discomfort to the occupants. Even on roads with holes, the suspension maintains stability and comfort, without reaching the end of its travel.

Engine and performance:

The Compass' engine offers good performance, despite being a heavy vehicle. The turbine shows its power from 1.800 revolutions onwards, providing strong acceleration and agile restarts. Even on hills and with a full car, the 180 horsepower engine leaves nothing to be desired, allowing for fast and safe driving.

Jeep Compass Longitude fuel consumption

In lighter traffic conditions, such as in January, 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 driven 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 air conditioning on, achieved an average consumption of 9,5 to 10 km/l with alcohol and 12 to 12,5 km/l with Gasoline.

In 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 air conditioning on, it achieved 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 larger displacement engine (1.6), achieved an average of 17 km/l at highway speeds, even with the air conditioning on.

Taking into account official Inmetro figures, this car is considered one of the most fuel-consuming in its category. Although it is understandable that a heavy car has a lower average, there is still the 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 question.

Positive and Negative Points of the Jeep Compass Longitude

The car's performance is a highlight, even though it is a medium SUV weighing 1.600 kg. O GSE turbo engine provides excellent performance, making the Compass a great option for those looking for a powerful vehicle.

The Compass' suspension also receives praise, whether in terms of ride comfort or dynamic behavior. The car features a suspension setup that offers a firm, non-disturbing ride and excellent cornering ability.

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 Corolla, the Compass has a disadvantageous consumption.

Another negative point is the quality of the headlights. Although it features LED technology, the headlight assembly leaves something to be desired, with a short and narrow beam, resulting in unsatisfactory lighting. This aspect is incompatible with the car's category and price, 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-adjusted suspension. However, fuel consumption and the quality of the headlights are aspects that need to be considered before purchasing the vehicle. If you're looking for power and a comfortable drive, but are willing to deal with relatively high consumption and less efficient headlights, the Compass may 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's understandable that cars aren't cheap these days, the Compass leaves the impression of being a simpler vehicle than it should be, especially compared to top-of-the-line compact models that offer more space, trunk space, versatility, and sometimes , even more equipment, for a price 20 to 30 thousand reais lower.

In 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 may change a little. However, this could be indicative of a category that is facing a certain stagnation and decadence, where the Compass and its competitors leave the impression of being simple cars, the Corolla Cross is even worse in this aspect, the Peugeot 3008 is good but expensive and not adapted to our floor, while other models in the competition are only figurative.

The conclusion is not just limited to the Compass, but also extends to the midsize SUV category as a whole. Is it worth paying so much more for a car that will often just be bigger? Wouldn't it be more advantageous to save money and choose a more equipped compact SUV, with better performance, consumption and practicality for driving in big cities? The impression is that the medium SUV category is losing its appeal, but it is important to highlight that each case is unique and that, if someone is determined to have a medium SUV and doesn't care about the aspects