Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Jeep Compass
With an overall Carivo score of 6.8/10, the 2021 Jeep Compass earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.7/10, while Performance at 7.1/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.7/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a strength too — 8.7/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.1/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 8.6/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $28,291–$36,587, 23 MPG, seating 5, the Jeep Compass sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The 8.6/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this suv delivers more than most of the class. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2021 Jeep Compass, but it needs the right buyer. and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2021 Jeep Compass ranks #2205 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 10% of the segment. Its 6.8/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $28,291 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 22%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Compass Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Jeep Compass scores 6.6/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 6.8 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2021 Jeep Compass
Is the 2021 Jeep Compass reliable?
We rate the 2021 Jeep Compass's reliability 7.7/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2021 Jeep Compass worth buying?
It scores 6.8/10 overall, ranking #2205 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 10% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Jeep Compass cost?
The 2021 Jeep Compass starts at $28,291 and ranges up to $36,587 across trims (MSRP when new). At 23 MPG, expect roughly $2,283/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Compass years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Compass years we've rated are 2017 (6.5/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.0/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Jeep Compass
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More Jeep Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Jeep models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year