The Incredible 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk: An Off-Road Champion Worth Every Penny

Introduction to the 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk

For adventure lovers and those in need of a compact SUV with off-road capability the 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk stands out as a practical choice that balances rugged performance with everyday comfort. Jeep's Trailhawk models carry the brand’s Trail Rated badge promising superior off-road features — and the Compass Trailhawk is no exception.

In this review we’ll dive deep into everything that makes this SUV unique from its impressive design and off-road capabilities to its technology offerings while also addressing any drawbacks you might need to keep in mind.

Overview of Key Features and What Sets It Apart

Exterior Design That Makes a Statement

The 2020 Compass Trailhawk grabs attention with a distinctive and aggressive look setting it apart from the standard Compass trims. With 17-inch off-road tires a raised suspension and signature red tow hooks this vehicle means business. The blacked-out hood decal isn’t just for aesthetics — it helps reduce glare during off-road driving under the sun.

Pros:

• Red tow hooks give it that rugged look while serving functional purposes.
• All-terrain tires boost its off-road capability.
• Unique Trailhawk badging provides a sense of identity.

Cons:

• Bulky tires and raised suspension may result in lower fuel efficiency compared to other Compass trims.
• Some drivers feel the black hood decal might not appeal to everyone’s taste.

“Personally I love the way the hood decal makes it feel ready for battle” says Alex Collantes a Jeep enthusiast. "It makes the Trailhawk look like it's always prepared for adventure".

Interior Comfort: A Blend of Practicality and Style

Stepping inside the Trailhawk surprises you with its thoughtful design. The leather-trimmed seats and heated front seats make cold-weather driving bearable. Jeep offers an 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system that works well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeping drivers connected while out on the trail or city streets.

Key Interior Features:

• Dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
• Adjustable lumbar support for long drives.
• Ample cargo space that increases with the rear seats folded down.

Minor Drawbacks:

• Interior materials feel a bit plasticky in some areas not quite matching the premium feel of competitors like the Mazda CX-5.
• Rear-seat legroom is tight for taller passengers making it better suited for families with children.

"I wouldn’t say it’s perfect on the inside but it gets the job done” adds Alex. “It’s like wearing your favorite old pair of boots — comfy but with a few scuffs here and there.”

Performance That Goes Beyond Pavement

The Trailhawk’s off-road capabilities are where it truly shines. Featuring Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4x4 system and a 9-speed automatic transmission this model tackles challenging terrains without hesitation. The Selec-Terrain system allows drivers to choose modes such as Snow Rock Sand Mud and Auto adjusting the powertrain and traction settings to suit different environments.

Engine Specifications:

• 2.4-liter Tigershark I-4 engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque.
• Towing capacity of up to 2000 pounds.
• Comes with Hill Descent Control for added safety on steep descents.

Potential Drawbacks:

• The 2.4-liter engine can feel underpowered during highway merging especially when the car is fully loaded.
• Transmission response is sometimes sluggish when shifting between gears.

Despite these minor flaws Alex believes it’s a worthy trade-off for the off-road prowess. "If you’re worried about highway merging just plan your overtakes better” they chuckle.

Fuel Efficiency: A Practical Daily Driver?

The 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk has an EPA rating of 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway. While these numbers are decent for an off-road SUV you may find it thirstier compared to its front-wheel-drive competitors.

Important to Note:

• You might experience a slight drop in fuel economy when using the 4x4 system consistently.
• Some owners report that urban stop-and-go traffic pushes consumption closer to the 20-mpg mark.

What Owners Say About Fuel Economy:

“I’m not driving this thing to save fuel I bought it to go places” says Alex. “If I wanted fuel efficiency I’d buy a Prius.”

Infotainment and Technology: Keeping You Connected

The Uconnect system is one of the most user-friendly systems in the market. The 8.4-inch touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate even with gloves on — a detail outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate.

Noteworthy Features:

1. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
2. Available navigation system with 3D graphics.
3. Voice command integration for hands-free control.

Minor Gripes:

• Some users mention that software updates occasionally cause lag in the system.
• The built-in navigation option feels outdated compared to using smartphone apps.

"Honestly I just stick to Google Maps” says Alex. “But the screen is still great for music controls and checking messages.”

Safety Features: Peace of Mind for Every Adventure

The Trailhawk offers a solid set of safety features from blind-spot monitoring to rear cross-traffic alert. It also comes with Jeep’s ParkView rear backup camera which proves essential in tight spots.

Top Safety Technologies:

• Adaptive cruise control for stress-free highway driving.
• Lane-keeping assist keeps you from drifting off course.
• Automatic emergency braking adds extra security.

While the safety features are impressive the Trailhawk does not offer full semi-autonomous driving capabilities which are now becoming more common in the segment. This might disappoint tech-savvy buyers.

Comparing the 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk with Competitors

It’s always helpful to compare options before making a decision. Here’s how the Compass Trailhawk stacks up against some of its key competitors:

Jeep Compass Trailhawk vs Subaru Crosstrek

• Jeep Compass: Better off-road capability with 4x4 low gearing.
• Crosstrek: Superior fuel economy and more rear-seat legroom.

Jeep Compass Trailhawk vs Mazda CX-5

• Jeep Compass: More rugged and capable off-road.
• Mazda CX-5: Premium interior feel with more responsive handling.

"Look if you're not planning to hit the trails there's no point in getting a Trailhawk” says Alex. "But if you are it’s a no-brainer."

Conclusion: Is the 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk the Right SUV for You?

In summary the 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk is an excellent option for anyone seeking a small SUV with genuine off-road abilities. Its rugged design practical technology and off-road chops make it a standout choice. However the fuel efficiency and limited rear-seat space might not suit everyone.

If you prioritize adventure over luxury and prefer performance over fuel savings this vehicle deserves a spot on your shortlist. As Alex puts it "It’s not perfect but it’s perfectly Jeep."

Final Thoughts

The 2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk is best suited for drivers who love off-road adventures and need a vehicle capable of handling both trails and daily commutes. It offers a unique balance of performance style and technology wrapped in a compact SUV format. Sure it’s not the most refined vehicle in its class but its character and off-road potential are hard to beat.

“Would I buy it again?" Alex says with a grin. "In a heartbeat. No regrets."