Jeep Compass and Chevrolet Trax: The War of Diminutive SUVs with Large Personalities
Photo Source: Jeep
Witnessing two subcompact SUVs go head-to-head is about as close as readers will ever get to watching small children fight – legally, at least. The 2023 Jeep Compass has gone from strength to strength since the 2021 model year. Last year (2022) brought a much-needed interior and systems update, and for 2023, the SUV receives a brand-new powertrain.
As for the 2024 Chevrolet Trax, many consumers thought the end had come for the Golden Bowtie’s entry-level crossover SUV after the Chevrolet Trailblazer arrived in 2021. However, in a relatively unconventional and shocking move, the Detroit-based automaker decided to continue the Trax for a second generation, which it revealed as a 2024 year model.
The subcompact SUV segment has garnered immense popularity in recent years due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. These tiny utes are extremely affordable, yet the ways these two brands approach the idea of assembling a small SUV are entirely different. In this comparison, the 2023 Jeep Compass and the 2024 Chevrolet Trax are pitted against each other to determine which vehicle offers the best value for money.
Exterior Styles
The Chevrolet Trax boasts a sleek and modern design with clean lines and a bold front grille. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for urban environments. On the other hand, the Jeep Compass features a rugged and muscular appearance, with its iconic seven-slot grille and aggressive stance. Even though both vehicles possess a unique appeal, the Jeep Compass undoubtedly offers a more adventurous and off-road-ready aesthetic.
Interior Styles
The inside of the 2024 Trax carries the DNA of most of the latest Chevy vehicles, with two digital color screens that are quite bright at night and clearly laid out, with exceptions. An 8-inch infotainment screen, aimed at the driver, comes standard. Indeed, the SUV has a well-designed cabin with comfortable seating and ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear occupants. As mentioned, the Trax also provides a user-friendly infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
In contrast, the Jeep Compass offers a more upscale interior with premium materials along with a higher degree of sophistication. As a matter of fact, for an SUV that is relatively small on the outside, the Compass offers capacious front and rear seats. The automobile’s soft springs, meant to absorb shocks and bumps on rugged trails, also offer a smooth and fairly quiet ride. The vehicle’s hold is healthy by the standards of its rivals. Last year’s (2022) interior upgrade vastly improved the furnishings, and the Compass holds its own on interior design. In addition, it boasts plenty of cargo room and advanced technology features such as an available 10.1-inch touchscreen display unit.
Under the Hoods
According to sources, “the Trax doesn’t have a whole lot of motivation underfoot. Its turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder makes a paltry 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, all of which is routed forward through a six-speed automatic transmission.” For example, when a driver steps on the gas pedal from a dead stop, there is no adrenaline – the person simply has to wait. That said, the vehicle offers a smooth and comfortable ride and provides adequate power for daily commuting.
On the other hand, the Jeep Compass utilizes a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, making 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, up from 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque in the 2022 model year. There is also a new eight-speed automatic transmission. By far, the Compass delivers a more engaging driving experience with its available off-road capabilities and responsive handling.
Overall Evaluation
Granted, with a starting price tag of $21,495 MSRP (Plus destination fee), the Chevrolet Trax is inexpensive for a young or newer driver, but it comes at the expense of available all-wheel drive and a robust engine. The 2023 Jeep Compass, however, offers a higher level of refinement, an upscale interior, and a more rugged and adventurous experience with its off-road capabilities that leaves the 2024 Chevrolet Trax in the dust.
If you would like to see the 2023 Jeep Compass for yourself, please come visit Cape Coral Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Above all, we want our customers to enjoy their shopping experience. We have a friendly and passionate sales team that will make your buying, leasing, or selling needs simple for any of our new vehicle inventory. If you are considering a used vehicle, we have plenty to choose from.