Affordable Excellence: 2020 Jeep Compass for Sale

The 2020 Jeep Compass strikes a unique balance between sleek design and rugged capability, making it a fantastic option if you're shopping for an affordable SUV with off-road chops and urban comfort. While it doesn’t boast the extreme off-roading prowess of the Wrangler or the large cargo space of a Grand Cherokee, the Compass holds its own with a blend of versatility, performance, and modern technology. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the 2020 Compass a worthy contender if you’re in the market for a reliable pre-owned vehicle.

Overview of the 2020 Jeep Compass

Jeep’s Compass has been positioned as a compact SUV offering a taste of the brand’s off-road DNA, packaged in a city-friendly size. It fits neatly between smaller subcompacts like the Renegade and larger offerings like the Cherokee. The 2020 model is part of the second generation Compass lineup, introduced in 2017, and continues to deliver modern tech with a stylish, updated look.

Key Features of the 2020 Compass

• Powertrain Options:
  The Compass comes with a 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine, which produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. You’ll find three transmission options depending on the trim and drivetrain:

  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • 6-speed automatic (FWD models)
  • 9-speed automatic (4WD models)

• Trim Levels:
  The Compass offers a variety of trims, ensuring there’s something for everyone:

  • Sport
  • Latitude
  • Limited
  • Trailhawk

• Infotainment System:
  Jeep's Uconnect system is standard across all trims, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available. A 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen gives access to entertainment, navigation, and connectivity options.

• 4x4 Capability:
  With Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system, drivers can switch between five modes – Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock – which adjusts throttle, transmission, and traction to suit various terrains.

Performance: Road and Off-Road

The 2.4-liter Tigershark engine powering the Compass offers smooth performance for daily commutes, although some drivers may find it a bit sluggish when merging on highways. Its off-road abilities are respectable compared to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, thanks to the Trailhawk trim that includes:

• Increased ground clearance
• Skid plates for underbody protection
• A low-range gear setting for rock crawling

However, the Tigershark engine doesn’t deliver the snappy acceleration some buyers may expect, and fuel economy hovers around 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which is about average but not outstanding.

Pros and Cons of the 2020 Jeep Compass

Pros:

1. Stylish Design
   The exterior styling stands out with its sleek grille and sharp headlights, giving it a premium look compared to other compact SUVs.

2. Trail-Rated Capability
   The Trailhawk trim provides exceptional off-road features, making the Compass a great choice if you like weekend getaways.

3. Comfortable Interior with Modern Tech
   Drivers and passengers will appreciate the comfortable seats and soft-touch materials in higher trims, along with the intuitive Uconnect infotainment system.

4. Affordable Pricing
   Compared to its rivals, the 2020 Compass is attractively priced, especially on the used car market, where you can often find it for $20,000 to $25,000, depending on mileage and condition.

Cons:

1. Limited Engine Power
   One downside is the underwhelming engine performance. The 2.4-liter engine can feel strained under heavy acceleration or when overtaking on the highway.

2. Average Cargo Space
   With 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.8 cubic feet with them folded, the Compass offers decent but not class-leading cargo space. Some rivals like the Honda CR-V provide more room.

3. Fuel Economy Could Be Better
   The gas mileage is decent but not impressive for the segment. If you’re looking for an SUV with top-tier fuel efficiency, you might want to explore hybrid options from other brands.

4. Rear Seat Comfort Can Be Tight
   While front passengers will enjoy spacious legroom, the rear seats might feel a bit cramped for taller adults, especially on longer trips.

What Makes the Compass a Good Buy in 2024?

The 2020 Jeep Compass continues to offer excellent value on the used car market. Its combination of affordable pricing, rugged capability, and city-friendly dimensions makes it an appealing choice for buyers who need versatility without breaking the bank. Alex Collantes, a car enthusiast and off-road adventurer, shares his take:

"The Compass hits the sweet spot for people like me who want some weekend adventure capability without having to buy a massive SUV. I drive it daily, and while it’s not the fastest thing on the highway, it handles rough trails with ease. The Trailhawk trim is worth every penny if you love the outdoors."

Comparing the Compass to Its Rivals

Honda CR-V vs. Jeep Compass

• The CR-V offers better cargo space and fuel efficiency but lacks the off-road capability of the Compass.

Toyota RAV4 vs. Jeep Compass

• The RAV4 delivers more powerful engine options and hybrid versions but comes at a higher price point.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Jeep Compass

• The Crosstrek provides standard all-wheel drive and better resale value, though it lacks the refined interior of the Compass.

Available Options and Trims for the 2020 Jeep Compass

Sport

• Entry-level trim with basic features
• 16-inch wheels
• Manual transmission available

Latitude

• Adds more convenience features
• Fog lights and roof rails

Limited

• Premium trim with leather seats and a larger touchscreen
• 18-inch wheels

Trailhawk

• Off-road focused with tow hooks and skid plates
• Best choice for adventurous drivers

Maintenance and Reliability

The 2020 Compass holds a fair reliability score compared to its segment, but buyers should be aware of some common issues that might arise:

• Transmission quirks with the 9-speed automatic in early models
• Occasional electrical gremlins reported by owners

Regular oil changes and proper maintenance will keep it running smoothly. Jeep offers basic warranties, but it’s a good idea to check if any extended coverage is available when buying pre-owned.

Financing and Deals for the 2020 Jeep Compass

You’ll find plenty of 2020 Jeep Compass models for sale through both dealerships and private sellers. Many certified pre-owned (CPO) models are available, offering peace of mind with extended warranties. If you’re lucky, you might snag a 0% APR financing deal through some lenders or dealerships with promotions.

Final Thoughts

The 2020 Jeep Compass offers a well-rounded package for buyers seeking a compact SUV with both style and off-road abilities. While it may not excel in engine power or cargo space compared to some of its competitors, it stands out for its rugged charm and affordable pricing. As Alex Collantes summed it up: “If you want a car that can handle both city traffic and light trails without being too bulky or expensive, the Compass is a great choice.”

Whether you're looking for a daily driver with some weekend adventure capability or simply want an affordable SUV with character, the 2020 Jeep Compass for sale should be on your radar. You can expect good value for your money especially if you find a certified pre-owned one with some warranty coverage left.

FAQs about the 2020 Jeep Compass

1. Does the 2020 Compass come with 4WD?
Yes most trims offer a 4WD option including the off-road ready Trailhawk.

2. What kind of fuel economy does the Compass get?
The 2020 Compass averages 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway depending on your driving style and conditions.

3. Is the Jeep Compass good for off-roading?
While it won’t match the Wrangler the Trailhawk trim offers impressive off-road capability for a compact SUV.

For buyers looking for a stylish and capable SUV at an accessible price point the 2020 Jeep Compass deserves serious consideration. Make sure to test drive a few trims and compare available deals before making your decision.