Corolla or compass: the ultimate buyer’s guide to compact suvs

The Toyota Corolla and Jeep Compass stand as formidable contenders in the compact car segment, each offering a unique blend of attributes that cater to distinct consumer preferences. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, versatility, or ruggedness, understanding the key differences between these two vehicles is crucial for making an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into a detailed comparison of the Toyota Corolla vs Jeep Compass, examining their performance, features, pricing, and more to help you determine the perfect fit for your automotive needs.

Performance:

Engine and Power:

The Toyota Corolla offers a choice between two engine options: a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 139 horsepower and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 169 horsepower. The Jeep Compass, on the other hand, provides three engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 237 horsepower, and a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 177 horsepower.

Fuel Economy:

The Toyota Corolla excels in fuel efficiency, with the 1.8-liter engine delivering an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter engine offers slightly lower fuel economy, rated at 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The Jeep Compass has lower fuel economy ratings, with the 2.4-liter engine achieving 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is rated at 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 1.3-liter turbocharged engine offers the best fuel economy among the Compass variants, with ratings of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Ride Quality:

The Toyota Corolla offers a responsive and agile driving experience, with precise steering and a well-balanced suspension that provides a comfortable ride. The Jeep Compass, with its available all-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance, provides enhanced stability and off-road capabilities, but it may compromise on-road handling and ride smoothness compared to the Corolla.

Features:

Interior Design and Comfort:

The Toyota Corolla’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable seats and a user-friendly dashboard layout. The Jeep Compass offers a more rugged interior design, with durable materials and a focus on practicality. Both vehicles offer a range of comfort features, such as heated seats, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof.

Technology and Connectivity:

The Toyota Corolla comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. The Jeep Compass offers a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen display, as well as features such as satellite radio, a nine-speaker Alpine audio system, and a navigation system.

Safety Features:

Both the Toyota Corolla and Jeep Compass offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Corolla also comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Jeep Compass offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a forward collision warning system.

Pricing:

The Toyota Corolla has a more affordable starting price than the Jeep Compass. The Corolla starts at around $20,000, while the Compass starts at around $24,000. However, the Compass offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which can increase its price significantly.

Which Car is Right for You?

The Toyota Corolla is an excellent choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency, affordability, and a comfortable driving experience. The Jeep Compass, on the other hand, is a better option for those who need a more rugged and versatile vehicle with off-road capabilities.

Takeaways:

The Toyota Corolla and Jeep Compass offer distinct advantages and cater to different consumer needs. The Corolla provides a fuel-efficient, comfortable, and affordable option, while the Compass offers versatility, off-road capabilities, and a more rugged design. By carefully considering your priorities and preferences, you can determine which of these compact cars is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Which car has better fuel economy?

The Toyota Corolla offers better fuel economy than the Jeep Compass.

2. Which car is more spacious?

The Jeep Compass offers a more spacious interior than the Toyota Corolla.

3. Which car has more off-road capabilities?

The Jeep Compass offers enhanced off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance.

4. Which car has a better safety rating?

Both the Toyota Corolla and Jeep Compass have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

5. Which car is more affordable?

The Toyota Corolla has a more affordable starting price than the Jeep Compass.