2019 Jeep Compass Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

With so many small crossovers on today's market, it's hard for some car shoppers to make a choice. Nevertheless, the 2019 Jeep Compass has some admiring qualities that help it to stick out from the rest. Very few competitors are better at toppling off-road terrain. Roomy seating also makes the new Compass a practical family vehicle. User-friendly interior features add to this crossover's appeal.

While no big changes were made to the SUV's exterior design, you can take advantage of the new appearance packages. Meanwhile, an updated automatic transmission seeks to enhance performance. For the first time, adaptive cruise control is offered.

Let's examine the differences between each 2019 Jeep Compass trim.

Compare the 2019 Jeep Compass Sport vs Latitude Trims. What is the difference?

Don't be misled by the Compass Sport's name. It does not look or perform better than any of the other trims. In fact, this is the least expensive version of the Compass. Of the standard features found on the Compass Sport, Jeep's 7.0-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system stands out the most. You won't find this nicety on last year's base model. Bluetooth streaming, a ParkView backup camera and a six-speaker stereo system come standard as well. Cold-weather features, like heated front seats and remote start, are also available on the Compass Sport in an optional package.

For the drivers who desire a more adventurous look, Jeep offers a new Upland appearance package. It outfits the Compass Sport with black tow hooks and front skid plates. A black roof further bolsters the SUV's curb appeal.

Like every new 2019 Jeep Compass, the Sport trim comes standard with a four-cylinder "Tigershark" engine. It's rated to produce 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. This is the only trim in the lineup that offers a manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Drivers living in snow-prone regions will want the optional 4x4 system.

With an MSRP of $24,845, the Jeep Compass Latitude is more expensive than the base Compass Sport. However, dit does have a tad nicer interior. Upgraded cloth and simulated leather seat upholstery adorns the cabin. Ambient LED interior lighting livens up the cabin. You'll also enjoy keyless entry and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. A set of 17-inch alloy wheels replace the Compass Sport's 16-inch black steel wheels.

If you are not satisfied with the Compass Limited's equipment, there are some tempting options available. A lot of drivers will be interested in the upgraded 8.4-inch touch screen with navigation.

By spending more money, you can outfit the Compass Latitude with an Advanced Safety package. It includes lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Meanwhile, the automatic high beams dim when approaching traffic at night.

Compare the 2019 Compass Latitude vs Altitude Trims. What is the difference?

While the same engine rests under the hood of the Compass Altitude, it benefits from an updated nine-speed transmission. From a performance standpoint, this feature gives the Altitude a slight advantage over the Compass Latitude. On the inside, piano black interior accents give the interior a more exciting vibe. Meanwhile, black aluminum wheels and blacked-out exterior treatments give the Altitude trim a bit more flair.

Compare the Compass Altitude vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

The Compass Limited is more luxurious than all of the available trims. It comes equipped with heated leather seats and a heated steering wheel. You'll also enjoy some other other high-end features, including a more exciting Beats premium sound system. Optional on the lower trims, Jeep's 8.4-inch touch screen comes standard on the Compass Limited.

In terms of exterior styling, the Compass comes equipped with a unique set of 18-inch wheels. You'll also notice the chrome exterior trim.

Compare the Compass Limited vs Trailhawk Trims. What is the difference?

For the drivers who love off-roading, Jeep offers the Compass Trailhawk. It's specially engineered for hardcore terrain. A raised suspension and underbody skid plates help you to better tackle the great outdoors. You'll also benefit from the Compass Trailhawk's more aggressive 4x4 system.

Distinctive styling cues further separate the Compass Trailhawk from the rest of the lineup. When traveling off the beaten path, a matte black hood helps prevent sun glare. Red tow hook also highlight the Compass Trailhawk's uniqueness. Bucket seats with perforated leather are optional.

Final Thoughts

The 2019 Jeep Compass Sport starts at less than $22,000. This price makes it a good choice for cost-cutting buyers. Despite being at the foot of the Compass lineup, it still brings some positive traits to the table. Most buyers will find the black steel wheels to look quite nice. By replacing last year's basic display with a smartphone-friendly touch screen, Jeep has made the Compass Sport even more rewarding. If you desire a manual gearbox, the Compass Sport is the only trim that offers one.

For some buyers, upgrading to the more expensive Compass Limited is a questionable choice. You can save more than $3,000 by sticking with the base Sport trim. However, you can get the Limited trim with the Advanced Safety Group package. While the Altitude trim is similarly equipped, it has a cooler look and comes equipped with an updated nine-speed transmission.

For the drivers who crave all of the available niceties, the Limited trim isn't a bad buy. However, keep in mind that some of the Compass Limited's features are optional on the lower trims.

If you're an outdoor lover who enjoys driving through the deep forest, make the Compass Trailhawk your top pick. Its advanced 4x4 system, raised suspension, and protective skid plates will help you to confidently venture off the beaten path. Although a leather package is offered on the Trailhawk trim, adventure seekers won't miss it. Before you get the Compass Trailhawk, be aware of its tad lower fuel economy.

2019 Jeep Compass Key Features

When shopping for a new 2019 Jeep Compass, you won't have the opportunity to get an optional engine. All trims are powered by the same 180-horsepower engine. While the Compass is far from quick, you can take advantage of the upgraded nine-speed transmission. Jeep designed it to downshift quicker, which translates to a slightly more responsive performance on the street. Remember, only the base Sport trim can can fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox. Fuel economy doesn't vary much between the FWD and 4X4 models. All models can return at least 30 mpg on the open road.

Jeep gives you two different Active Drive 4x4 systems to choose from. Even the base system is great for tackling the snow and basic off-road trails. However, drivers who plan to maneuver on more challenging terrain should go for the Compass Trailhawk. It comes equipped with a more advanced Active Drive Low 4x4 system. When churning through the mud, you'll appreciate the system's low-range gearing.

This year, Jeep decided to equip every new Compass with its praiseworthy Uconnect infotainment system. This means even the least expensive trim will feature a 7.0-inch touch-controlled display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. After linking your smartphone to the interface, you'll be able to easy select mobile apps from the display screen. According to testers, it ranks among the most user-friendly infotainment systems on the market. Even people who aren't big on technology will grow to love the Uconnect interface. A larger 8.4-inch display with navigation is available on most trims.

The standard six-speaker stereo system doesn't sound bad for the price. Music listeners can actually enjoy themselves. However, drivers who like bass-heavy music such as rock and hip-hop should strongly consider getting the eight-speaker Beats premium audio system. A 12-channel amp and a powerful subwoofer help ensure a great bass response. Even if you're a fan of classical music, you'll still appreciate the enhanced clarity.

Unfortunately, front-seat ventilation isn't available on the 2019 Jeep Compass. Nevertheless, the features found in the optional Cold Weather Group package promise to make winter commuting more enjoyable. Expect the heated front seats to warm up quickly even on the coldest of days. You'll also enjoy the cozy feel of the heated steering wheel. Meanwhile, remote start enables you to warm the engine before heading out on an icy morning.

Automatic dual-zone climate control comes standard on the more luxurious Limited trim. Like so many of the SUV's other features, this system is a breeze to use. Dialing up the temperature only takes a few seconds. When traveling with a passenger, you'll appreciate the added convenience.

There are a competitive number of safety technologies available for the 2019 Jeep Compass. Unlike some rivals, the Compass does not come standard with any advanced driving aids. However, moving past the base Sport model gives you access to Jeep's Advanced Safety package. The $895 will be money well spent. You'll find that the forward collision system works very well at anticipating accidents. Reviewers were also impressed by the enhanced awareness provided by the blind-spot monitor. On the downside, lane-keep assist can be sensitive at time. Because of this issue, many owners prefer to leave lane-keep assist turned off.