Jeep Compass Vs. Grand Cherokee Side-by-Side Comparison

Comparing the Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee gives you two ways to experience legendary Jeep capability. One is an agile, turbocharged compact SUV with standard 4WD, while the other is an iconic midsize model that offers an array of all-terrain-ready editions, along with a choice of 2WD or a Jeep 4x4 system. Which of these adventurous Jeep SUVs will you prefer? Discover the differences below before booking a test drive at our McGee CDJR of Barre showroom.

Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee at a Glance

Turbocharged performance and 4WD come standard on the 200-horsepower Jeep Compass
A 293-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 is paired with RWD or 4WD in the new Jeep Grand Cherokee
The larger Grand Cherokee proves greater towing capacity and cargo space than its compact SUV stablemate
The 2025 Jeep Compass features four trim levels, while the 2025 Grand Cherokee comes in a choice of nine trims

Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee: Specs Comparison

	2025 Jeep Compass Sport	2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
Engine	2.0L I-4 turbo	3.6L V-6
Horsepower	200	293
Torque	221 lb-ft	257 lb-ft
Drive Type	4WD	2WD or 4WD
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy)	24 / 32¹	19 / 26²
Fuel Tank Size	13.5 gal	23 gal
Towing Capacity	2,000 lbs³	6,200 lbs³
Seating Capacity	5	5
Passenger Volume	100 cu ft	145 cu ft
Cargo Space (Min / Max)	27.2 / 59.8 cu ft	37.7 / 70.8 cu ft
Wheelbase	103.8 in	116.7 in
Length	173.4 in	193.5 in
Width	73.8 in	77.5 in
Height	64.6 in	70.8 in

Which Jeep SUV Is Best for You?

Jeep Compass:

Best Jeep SUV for city drivers
Best Jeep SUV for budget-conscious all-terrain-driving enthusiasts
Best Jeep SUV for those seeking agile and fuel-efficient performance

Jeep Grand Cherokee:

Best Jeep SUV for adventure seekers
Best Jeep SUV for families of five or fewer
Best Jeep SUV for towing and hauling

2025 Compass Trims

The new Jeep Compass offers four trim levels, from the Sport base model to the Trail-Rated Compass Trailhawk and the luxe Limited. Consider all Jeep Compass trim levels to locate your favorite:

Compass Sport
Compass Latitude
Compass Trailhawk
Compass Limited

2025 Grand Cherokee Trims

With nine unique trim levels to choose from, including the high-end Summit and range-topping Summit Reserve, the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers more premium editions and amenities than its smaller sibling.

Explore all available Jeep Grand Cherokee trims:

Grand Cherokee Laredo A
Grand Cherokee Laredo
Grand Cherokee Laredo X
Grand Cherokee Altitude
Grand Cherokee Altitude X
Grand Cherokee Limited
Grand Cherokee Overland
Grand Cherokee Summit
Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve

Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee Performance

Both the new Jeep Grand Cherokee for sale and the Compass SUV deliver all-terrain capability, but they do so in different ways. The Compass compact SUV sports a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to standard 4WD. This smaller SUV, with its four-cylinder turbo powertrain, excels in agility and efficiency. The available Trailhawk trim level brings Jeep Trail Rated status to this fun-loving sport-ute.

Alternatively, you can choose the larger Grand Cherokee model, fitted with a standard V-6 engine. Power your all-terrain excursions with a Pentastar V-6 that produces a healthy 293 horsepower. This midsize SUV's 257 pound-feet of torque is directed to the rear wheels in two-wheel-drive models or all four when equipped with a legendary Jeep 4x4 system.

Compass vs. Grand Cherokee Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is one of the many areas where the Compass compact sport-ute excels. It earns up to an EPA-estimated 24/32 MPG (City/Highway)¹ rating with its standard 4WD system, eight-speed automatic transmission, and 200-horsepower turbo engine.

The more potent and performance-oriented model, the Grand Cherokee, isn't far off the Compass' mark. The bigger Grand Cherokee still achieves up to an EPA-estimated 19/26 MPG (City/Highway),² which is competitive for the midsize SUV segment.

Compass vs. Grand Cherokee Towing Capacity

Drivers looking to maximize their towing capabilities within the compact or midsize Jeep SUV lines will likely prefer the Grand Cherokee and its V-6 engine. When properly equipped, this model can pull up to 6,200 pounds, far exceeding the compact Compass and its 2,000-pound tow rating.³ See our Jeep Grand Cherokee towing guide for complete details on this SUV's trailering capabilities by configuration.

Compass vs. Grand Cherokee: Interior Space and Features

If you're seeking a roomy ride for up to five, both the Jeep Compass and Grand Cherokee fit the bill. The smaller Jeep SUV accommodates you and your crew with 100 cubic feet of passenger volume, plus 27.2 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row. The larger Grand Cherokee midsize SUV takes space and comfort a step further with 145 cubic feet of passenger space and 37.7 cubic feet for cargo behind the back bench seating.

In terms of comparing the Compass vs. Grand Cherokee features, the latter provides more premium leather-upholstered seating options, including upscale quilted Nappa leather trim throughout the cabin. Contact us to learn everything you need to know about the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee: Safety Systems

Both of these new Jeep SUVs come with standard and available advanced safety and driver-assist systems, including technologies like:

Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Active Lane Management
Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Automatic Braking

The premium new Grand Cherokee lineup is highlighted by even more available technologies and safety features, including standouts like:

Hands-Free Active Driving Assist
Night Vision Camera
Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist System
Drowsy Driver Detection
Surround View Camera

Help maximize your on-road safety and alertness with a Grand Cherokee and these high-tech features. Or, enjoy the peace of mind of a generous standard safety suite in the value-packed Compass. You can compare Compass vs. Grand Cherokee pricing and their included safety systems online or with your local Jeep dealership team.

Frequently Asked Questions Comparing the Jeep Compass & Grand Cherokee

Which Jeep vehicle has better off-road capability, the Compass or Grand Cherokee?

The Grand Cherokee generally has better off-road capability across its lineup. However, the Jeep Compass Trailhawk is an especially capable version of the compact SUV. The Grand Cherokee is not only more powerful, it also offers more advanced Jeep 4x4 systems that are engineered to take you farther off the beaten trail. While both are off-road worthy, consider a Grand Cherokee for greater all-terrain performance.

How do the fuel economy ratings compare between the Compass and Grand Cherokee?

The Jeep Compass is more fuel-efficient, but the Grand Cherokee isn't too far behind in terms of overall gas mileage ratings. Compass SUVs achieve up to an EPA-estimated 24/32 MPG (City/Highway)¹ rating, thanks to a fuel-sipping turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Grand Cherokee returns up to an EPA-estimated 19/26 MPG (City/Highway)² with 2WD and its 3.6-liter V-6.

How do the interior features differ between the Compass and Grand Cherokee?

The interior features of the Compass and Grand Cherokee are quite similar, as both feature a Uconnect infotainment system, supportive front bucket seats offering heating elements, and classic Jeep cabin styling. The Grand Cherokee is available with a more upscale interior, however, as this model can be fitted with quilted Nappa leather trim, for instance. Compare their cabins at your Jeep dealer.

Which Jeep vehicle is better for families or daily commuting?

The larger Jeep Grand Cherokee midsize SUV is better suited for families of up to five, while the compact Jeep Compass is best for daily commuting. Families will love the roomier interior of the Grand Cherokee, but the Compass also offers an accommodating and comforting cabin, along with the bonus of better fuel economy for commuting. Test-drive these impressive SUVs at McGee CDJR of Barre.

Which Jeep SUV has more advanced technology and infotainment features?

The Grand Cherokee is the Jeep SUV with more advanced technology and infotainment features. As the more premium option in this comparison, the new Grand Cherokee midsize SUV is available with larger digital displays and even more advanced driver-assist tech than the compact Compass. For instance, the Grand Cherokee is available with a Hands-Free Active Driving Assist and Night Vision.

It's Time to Book Your Test Drive

We hope this detailed Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee comparison, courtesy of McGee CDJR of Barre, has helped you determine which of these adventurous and authentic Jeep SUVs is better suited for your driving style.

When it's time to test-drive a 2025 Grand Cherokee or the new Jeep Compass for sale in Central Vermont, turn to our team. We'll gladly set you up with a tour of either (or both) models so you can become more familiar with the Jeep features we've covered in our Jeep Compass vs. Grand Cherokee guide.

Schedule Your Test Drive Today

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¹EPA-estimated 24 city MPG with 2.0-liter turbo and eight-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary. EPA-estimated 32 hwy MPG with 2.0-liter turbo and eight-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary.

²EPA-estimated 19 city MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary. EPA-estimated 26 hwy MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic. Actual mileage may vary.

³When properly equipped. See dealer for details.