2022 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2022 Jeep Compass Comparison

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The 2022 Mazda CX-30 and 2022 Jeep Compass are from two different ends of the compact SUV spectrum. Here’s how they compare.
2022 Mazda CX-30
2022 Mazda CX-30 Starting Price: $22,200 | Price yours or View listings near you
Above Average: Upscale styling; premium interior; most power in class; standard all-wheel drive; sporty and enthusiastic handling; comprehensive driver assists; available 2.5 Turbo model.
Below Average: Infotainment system learning curve; snug rear seating; some desirable features require purchasing top trim level.
Consensus: The CX-30 bridges the gap between a sports car and an SUV. Its lively driving manners and high seating position provide the best of both worlds. A long list of options includes a peppy 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine.
2022 Jeep Compass
2022 Jeep Compass Starting Price: $26,020 | Price yours or View listings near you
Above Average: Off-road capability; roomy rear seat; active-safety features standard on all trims.
Below Average: Only one engine choice; just-average fuel economy.
Consensus: The Jeep Compass looks like a Jeep, and this crossover also has Jeep-like capability when the pavement ends. The sole engine offering leaves us wanting, however.
CX-30 vs. Compass: Urban vs. Country?
Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact SUV that pushes the envelope in what we expect from such a vehicle. Smaller than the CX-5 compact but larger than the discontinued subcompact CX-3, it offers style, an engaging character, and a wide array of standard technology and safety features.
The interior has a near-luxury vibe and feels larger and airier than the CX-30’s size would suggest. Still, some second-row passengers may feel slightly cramped. With its enthusiastic road manners and handling characteristics, this could be the best-driving subcompact SUV in the segment today.
The CX-30’s standard power comes from a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G inline-4, producing 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Those with a taste for more power can choose the 2.5-liter turbo inline-4 to get 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with 87 octane or 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with 93-octane fuel.
A new trim for the 2022 model year is the Carbon Edition based on the CX-30 2.5S with the normally aspirated engine. This appearance package includes black alloy wheels and exterior accents along with red interior contract stitching and carbon fiber trim.
The models with the turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-4, leather seating, Bose premium audio system, head-up display, navigation, start at $30,200.
Jeep Compass
The 2022 Jeep Compass goes where other small SUVs might fear to tread. That’s particularly true of the Trailhawk version, which includes all-wheel drive (AWD) with low-range gearing, hill-descent control, lifted suspension, and skidplates. Other Compass trims come standard with front-wheel drive and offer AWD as an option.
All Compass models are powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with either a 6-speed automatic in front-drive or a 9-speed with all-wheel drive. Its 177 horsepower is adequate but little more, and fuel economy averages 25 mpg with either drivetrain. The on-road ride can be stiff, although handling is not bad.
Inside, a new center console boasts more storage space, and the finishes have received a needed upgrade. Passenger space is good, as is luggage space with 27 cubic feet behind the rear seats and nearly 60 cubic feet with the seatbacks folded. An 8.4-inch touchscreen is now standard and includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; a 10.1-inch display is in the upper three trims.
The standard active driver aids list now includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control, automated parking, and surround-view camera arrive with the Latitude trim. Additional available features include a digital instrument cluster, automated parking, and wireless charging.
Similarities
Four-cylinder drivetrains; seating for five; warranty.
Mazda CX-30 Advantages
Sleek styling; sporty handling; more powerful engine option; lower price.
Jeep Compass Advantages
Cargo space; larger rear seat; off-road capability.
Which One is Right for Me?
The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offers an alternative to the segment’s boxy standard looks. It has a premium look inside and out and offers great power and crisp handling.
The 2022 Jeep Compass is more off-road-ready than most small crossovers, and it’s well equipped and affordable.
Ready to buy a Mazda CX-30 or Jeep Compass? Shop for one on sale now near you.
2022 Mazda CX-30 | 2022 Jeep Compass | |
Popular Powertrains | ||
Engine | 2.5-liter I4 | 2.4-liter I4 |
Horsepower | 186 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 177 hp @ 6,400 rpm |
Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 172 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm |
Transmission | 6-spd automatic | 6-spd automatic |
Fuel Economy | 28 mpg (25 city/33 hwy) | 25 mpg (22 city/31 hwy) |
Also Available | 2.5-liter turbo I4 | 9-spd automatic; AWD |
Specs | ||
Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | n/a |
Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Wheelbase | 104.4 inches | 103.8 inches |
Overall Length | 173.0 inches | 173.0 inches |
Width | 70.7 inches | 73.8 inches |
Height | 61.7 inches | 64.6 inches |
Turning Diameter | 34.8 feet | 36.3 feet |
Headroom, Front | 38.1 inches | 39.2 inches |
Headroom, Rear | 38.3 inches | 38.5 inches |
Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 41.8 inches |
Legroom, Rear | 36.3 inches | 38.3 inches |
Shoulder Room, Front | 55.6 inches | 56.7 inches |
Shoulder Room, Rear | 53.6 inches | 55.1 inches |
EPA Passenger Volume | 94.1 cubic feet | 100.0 cubic feet |
EPA Cargo Volume | 20.2/45.2 cubic feet | 27.0/59.8 cubic feet |