Despite enjoying reasonably good sales, the Jeep Compass still gets its fair share of flack for a few reasons. It hasn’t had a significant redesign since 2017, leaving it less refined than its siblings and competitors.

It’s also still stuck with the same engine that has garnered many complaints from critics and Compass owners. Fortunately, according to Carbuzz, some exciting changes are on the horizon. Is the 2023 Jeep Compass worth waiting for?

What we know about the 2023 Jeep Compass

Currently, the Jeep Compass utilizes a 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder, making 177 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. That’s paired with either a six-speed automatic for FWD models or a nine-speed automatic if you have 4WD.

The engine is notorious for being too sluggish, and both transmissions stutter between shifts. Carbuzz is hopeful that this engine will replace the same turbo-four found inside the Jeep Renegade. 

This one is capable of 177 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque, though the exact specifications inside the Compass would likely be different. Still, an excellent low-end torque increase would solve both of the car’s most significant drivetrain issues. 

The 2022 Jeep Compass shows potential for improvement

The 2022 Jeep Compass received a completely revamped interior. Most higher Compass trims have a ten-inch touchscreen that looks more like a tablet than the boxy eight-inch standard offering. Both have the latest Uconnect software and wireless smartphone integration regardless of screen size.

A 10.25-inch gauge display is also new for this year inside certain trims. The simple dashboard has been replaced with a more modern design, featuring soft padded surfaces and chrome trim.

The front of the SUV has also been smoothed out with compact headlights and a new grille. While the engine remains unchanged, this Compass got a suspension upgrade to improve its ride quality. The newly-available Altitude Package provides black accents throughout the vehicle’s exterior and interior, plus 18-inch black wheels.

The Jeep Compass Latitude Lux, a new trim that debuted this year, slots nicely between Latitude and upscale Limited. It comes with the more significant touchscreen standard, plus 4WD and leather seats. 

This trim can also have a panoramic sunroof, a surround-view camera system, and premium Alpine stereo speakers through optional packages. Even the standard Sport trim received some new safety features this year.

Is the 2022 Compass still a good option?

If you can’t wait until 2023, we’d argue that the 2022 Jeep Compass is still worth your money. Besides its latest features, it also provides one of the best off-roading experiences in the subcompact SUV segment.

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk can take on mild or moderate rock-crawling with confidence thanks to its Active Drive Low 4WD. This system also provides off-road suspension upgrades and hill descent control. The Trailhawk also has an enhanced ground clearance of 8.5 inches, nearly an inch more than other trims.

The Jeep Compass isn’t exactly great to drive for everyday adventures, but it’s not terrible either. According to Consumer Reports, the Compass doesn’t have a lot of body lean and exhibits excellent braking performance. However, the steering wheel doesn’t have much feedback, and large bumps can send shakes throughout the cabin.

Still, the cabin also provides generous seating accommodations thanks to the Compass’s boxy body. Adults can fit comfortably in both rows, but the low rear seats can compromise comfort on longer trips. The Jeep Compass is still vacation-friendly, with almost 60 cubic feet of cargo area.

Despite its upgrades, there are still a few areas where the Jeep Compass could grow. If 2022 was just the teaser, the 2023 Jeep Compass could be close to perfection.