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Want an affordable off-roader? Well, there might not be a Jeep SUV or truck in your price range. The cheapest Jeep model is currently the 2024 Jeep Compass and may require some financing. Let’s see if it’s worth it. 

The cheapest Jeep model is still pretty expensive 

The cheapest Jeep model is the 2024 Jeep Compass. The Compass starts at $27,485 with the $1.595 destination fee included. The MSRP says $25,900 but dealership markups and other fees may be included like the destination fee. 

Back in the day, around 2015, the Jeep Renegade had an MSRP of $15,000 for the basics. Today there isn’t really an entry-level Jeep model anymore. 

Meanwhile, the Nissan Kicks starts at $22,705, the Hyundai Venus starts at $21,275, and the Toyota Corolla Cross starts at $24,690 with the destination fees included. Should Jeep make a cheaper model to allow people to save while still gaining some off-roading capabilities? 

The 2024 Jeep Compass has a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.3 seconds. 

So it has more power than cheaper entry-level models and it’s a bit faster. It’s also faster than the RAV4, but isn’t as fun to drive. 

The 2024 Jeep Compass off-roading
2024 Jeep Compass | Jeep

The transmission is lazy, there’s noticeable body roll-around curves, and the brakes are tight at lower speeds, which may lead to lurching. 

Also, the Compass doesn’t have the best track record for comfort due to stiff seats, a firm ride, and an incredibly loud interior. 

However, the standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 10.1-inch infotainment system, 17-inch alloy wheels, and roof rails. That’s a solid start, but the Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-30 both have standard AWD. 

The Compass Trailhawk takes the price up to $$35,490 but includes off-roading upgrades. For example, it has a suspension lift, all-terrain tires, protective skid plates, low-range gearing, and a Rock driving mode. 

Is this Jeep model worth it? For the price of a Compass Trailhawk, you could get started with a two-door Wrangler or Grand Cherokee.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.