Key Features of the 2026 Jeep Compass
2.0-liter Turbo I-4 and 8-speed Automatic
Under the hood, the Compass uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission to deliver smooth, accessible power. The powertrain’s character is tuned for everyday drivability—strong low-end torque helps you pull away from lights cleanly, while the eight-speed shifts unobtrusively to keep the engine in its sweet spot. On-ramp confidence is equally important, and the transmission’s gearing helps the Compass settle into highway speed without fuss. This setup also plays nicely with the standard all-wheel drive, distributing torque where it is needed without constant driver intervention. The overall feel is composed rather than flashy—exactly what most drivers want when the day swings from errands to weekend plans. When properly equipped, the powertrain also supports up to 2,000 pounds of towing, useful for a small utility trailer or compact toys.
Standard All-Wheel Drive with Selec-Terrain
All-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup, and that decision pays off the first time you drive in a downpour, hit a slick patch near a construction zone, or leave pavement for a rutted parking area at a trailhead. Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system helps you tailor the vehicle’s response to changing surfaces, with modes that optimize throttle, transmission mapping, and torque distribution for conditions like Snow, Sand/Mud, or Auto. The real benefit shows up in feel—less wheelspin when starting off, less hunting for traction, and a more settled response when you crest a damp speed bump or deal with patchy shoulder gravel. This thoughtful calibration makes the Compass easy to trust, regardless of how unpredictable the day’s route becomes.
Trailhawk All-Terrain Enhancements
Drivers who want the most confidence off pavement should look closely at the Trailhawk. It upgrades the driveline with a more serious all-wheel-drive system that includes a crawler gear ratio for slow-speed control and adds a dedicated Rock mode to the Selec-Terrain system. These hardware and software changes help the Compass manage moderate obstacles, uneven surfaces, and steep, loose grades with composure. Steering and pedal responses are tuned to be more deliberate off-road, making it easier to place the vehicle and ease over obstacles. For drivers who regularly navigate unmaintained roads to campsites, boat launches, or trail networks, the Trailhawk specification turns an already capable compact SUV into a confident partner when the route becomes a path.
Uconnect 5 with 10.1-inch Touchscreen and Wireless Integration
The Compass cabin revolves around Uconnect 5, an interface known for clear menus, fast processing, and thoughtful customization. An 8.4-inch touchscreen is standard, while an available 10.1-inch display adds extra real estate for split-screen layouts and navigation maps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto simplify daily life—no cable hunting, instant pairing, and a clean console. Natural voice recognition reduces distraction by letting you set a destination, place a call, or pull up a playlist with simple commands. Available Alpine audio adds depth and clarity that make podcasts and playlists feel roomier. USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt power points keep everyone’s devices charged. Altogether, the technology suite complements the Compass’s easy-driving character with an equally easy-to-use digital experience.
Driver-Assistance and Safety Suite
Key safety and assistance features come standard to help with daily driving, including Automated Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts. For 2026, Adaptive Cruise Control is standard on Limited and Trailhawk, easing long highway drives by maintaining distance and helping manage speed changes smoothly. Available Traffic Sign Recognition can reinforce posted limits and key warnings, and available camera systems broaden visibility in tight space maneuvers. The design intent is obvious—deliver support you can feel without requiring constant setup. Whether you are commuting at rush hour or navigating a crowded shopping center, the Compass’s driver-assistance suite works to reduce fatigue while maintaining driver engagement.