2023 Jeep Compass vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Jeep Compass showcased a refined design, moving away from the rugged Jeep aesthetic. It adopted a more upscale appearance, similar to the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models. The Compass Sport and Latitude models featured new 17-inch wheels, while the Trailhawk's wheels were gloss black. The Compass lineup included various trims, with the Limited trim offering a sophisticated interior with digital displays and metallic accents. However, the high price point made it less appealing compared to luxury SUVs.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented a luxury SUV look. The TX had a toned-down design, appealing to those who found previous Lexus models too bold. The Luxury trim featured 22-inch wheels, enhancing its upscale presence. The TX offered a conservative yet elegant appearance, making it a suitable choice for luxury SUV enthusiasts.

The 2023 Jeep Compass introduced a new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine improved the driving experience, offering better acceleration and a quieter ride. The Compass featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep Active Drive AWD system. The Trailhawk model excelled off-road with its enhanced capabilities. However, the Compass still experienced body motions on uneven surfaces, and the AWD system was slow to engage.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in about eight seconds. The TX offered a comfortable ride with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The FWD model showed hints of torque steer, but the AWD option improved traction. The TX's fuel economy was slightly better than its predecessor, averaging 20.4 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Jeep Compass provided a comfortable interior for adults in both rows. It featured an air filtration system and optional dual-zone climate control. The Limited trim offered leather seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The rear seat was spacious enough for adults, and the cargo space was competitive, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury trim included premium leather upholstery, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with captain’s chairs as an option. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, offering better comfort than previous models. The TX provided ample cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row and 97 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Jeep Compass featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 technology, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Limited trim included a digital instrumentation panel, navigation, and a nine-speaker Alpine sound system. The parking assist system and surround-view camera were useful additions.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with a Technology Package, offering a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and surround-view camera. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TX provided a digital assistant with natural voice recognition and various connectivity options. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system delivered impressive audio quality.

The 2023 Jeep Compass included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Highway Assist system offered semi-autonomous driving on highways. However, the Compass had incomplete crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and road sign assist. Proactive Drive Assist provided additional braking and steering support. The TX offered traffic jam assist for hands-free driving at low speeds. The safety systems were generally smooth and effective, though some adjustments were needed for optimal performance.