The 2024 Jeep Compass is a versatile compact SUV that offers great value for the money, offering attractive base features like all-wheel drive. The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee mixes luxury with off-road capabilities. Which of these SUVs is the best fit for your family? This guide compares Jeep Compass Vs. Cherokee in terms of performance, reliability, ownership costs, space, and features.
What Are the Main Differences Between the Jeep Compass Vs. the Cherokee?
Trying to decide between the Jeep Compass and Jeep Grand Cherokee? The Jeep Compass is a compact, fuel-efficient SUV, while the Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV offering more power, towing capacity, and luxury features.
Engine Specs for Jeep Compass Vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Here’s how the 2024 models stack up:
- Engine: The Compass rocks a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder intercooled DOHC engine. The Grand Cherokee comes standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 DOHC engine.
- Power: The Grand Cherokee’s V-6 puts out 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Compass delivers an impressive 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque.
- Towing capacity: With its 6,200 lbs. of towing capacity, the Grand Cherokee is a favorite of boat owners and camping enthusiasts. The Compass can tow up to 2,000 lbs., more than the popular Honda CR-V.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee also offers a hybrid engine that can get up to 375 hp and 470 lb.-ft. of torque.
Fuel Economy
The Compass wins in fuel economy against the Grand Cherokee’s standard V-6, getting a fantastic 24/32 mpg with its all-wheel drive. The Grand Cherokee gets 19/26 mpg, or 23/24 mpg with the hybrid engine.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee Bigger Than the Jeep Compass?
Even though the Jeep Compass and the Jeep Grand Cherokee look like identical twins in photos, there’s a big size difference between the two.
Total Size
The Compass is about 174 inches long and 65 inches high, with a shorter wheelbase of 103 inches. The Grand Cherokee measures about 194 inches in length and 71 inches in height.
Passenger Space
The Grand Cherokee is slightly roomier, offering 145 cu. ft. of passenger volume vs. the Compass’s 100 cu. ft. You can mainly feel the difference in hip/shoulder space; the legroom is practically identical. Both vehicles seat five passengers comfortably.
Cargo Space
The Grand Cherokee also offers more cargo space for running errands, buying groceries, loading up sports gear, or prepping for family road trips. It especially stands out in standard cargo space, delivering 37 cu. ft. to the Compass’s 27.
Folding down the rear seats gives you 71 cu. ft. with the Grand Cherokee; the Compass maxes out at 60 cu. ft. for storage.
If you need extra cargo room for road trips, sports gear, or family hauls, the Grand Cherokee is the better choice. However, the Compass is still spacious for a compact SUV and is easier to maneuver in city driving.
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What Are the Advantages of the Jeep Compass and the Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The Jeep Compass’s smaller profile gives it a tighter turn radius, easier maneuverability, and a sportier feel. It’s perfect for individuals, couples, and small families living in the big city. The Grand Cherokee is ideal for parents with teens, family vacations, and weekend trips to the lake.
Is cost your deciding factor? With a base sticker price under $30,000, the Compass comes in at nearly $10,000 cheaper than the base price for the Grand Cherokee. That said, the Grand Cherokee delivers greater luxury for the money, even earning a Car and Driver Editor’s Choice award.
What Is the Reliability Rating of the Jeep Compass Vs. the Jeep Cherokee?
Overall, the Jeep Compass has a great reputation for reliability with consumers, scoring higher than average in real-world repair statistics. Owners can expect average repair costs of $525 a year. One exception is the 2018 Compass, which appears to have issues with excessive oil consumption and engine issues. Newer models don’t have this issue.
The Grand Cherokee costs about $650 a year in ownership costs. Newer Grand Cherokees are also highly rated for reliability, though older models (2011 to 2015) have a rougher reputation because of TPM and transmission defects.
Compare Vehicle Protection Plans for the Jeep Compass Vs. Grand Cherokee
At the end of the day, choosing between the Jeep Compass and the Grand Cherokee comes down to your lifestyle, family size, budget, and driving habits. Both Jeep models are reliable, capable in hot and cold climates, and enjoyable to drive. However, as with any vehicle, repairs can be costly, especially as the vehicle ages. A Vehicle Protection Plan (VPP) can help cover expensive repairs and give you peace of mind on the road. Find an affordable vehicle protection plan at autopom! so you can have fun in your Jeep for ages.
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