2023 Jeep Compass Trailhawk: The Baby Grand Cherokee Gets a New Heart

Image courtesy of capturingthemachine.com

For 2023 the baby version of the popular Jeep Grand Cherokee gets an updated powertrain that fixes some of the lingering issues the platform has had and makes it a strong competitor to the likes of the Subaru Forester Wilderness.

NEED TO KNOW

  • The 2.0L turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic are a substantial improvement over the outgoing powertrain.
  • Trail-rated certification means it can handle genuine off-road conditions, not just dirt roads.
  • The interior punches above its class with features typically found in pricier vehicles.
  • At its price point, the Compass Trailhawk offers strong value against mainstream compact SUV rivals.

Yes, for the 2023 model year, the Jeep Compass gets a re-tuned version of the 2.0L 4-cylinder power plant that can be found under the hood of the renowned Wrangler. The transmission is also swapped out, no more clunky 9-speed automatic here. The new 8-speed automatic is much more refined in its operation and, coming from someone who owns a Cherokee with the 9-speed transmission, is a welcome addition to the Compass platform. All 2023 Compass SUVs are 4×4 models for added traction in any situation.

The new engine and transmission make this spunky little crossover feel more alive. With best-in-class 200 horsepower and best-in-class 221 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle finally has the power it needs and, in this Trailhawk trim, allows you to do obstacles many larger SUVs may struggle to complete.

The trail-rated Trailhawk features a one-inch factory lift, better approach and departure angles, underbody protection, aggressive off-road tires, Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System, Jeep Active Drive Low 4×4 System, and hill descent control.

Inside, this Trailhawk is a mixture version of the much-beloved Grand Cherokee with its design and technology. Our model features the standard 10.1-inch Connect 5 HD infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as the 10.25-inch frameless digital gauge cluster. Seats are comfortable and supportive while also featuring heat and ventilation.

2023 Jeep Compass Trailhawk Features:

  • 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine
  • 227 Horsepower
  • 310 lb-ft of Torque
  • 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System
  • Jeep Active Drive Low 4×4 System
  • Hill Descent Control
  • One-inch Factory Lift
  • Skid Plates
  • 17-inch Black Aluminum Wheels
  • 215/65R17 BSW All-Season On/Off Road Tires
  • Full-Size Spare
  • 30-degree Approach Angle
  • 24-degree Breakover Angle
  • 34-degree Departure Angle
  • 19-inches of Water Fording
  • Up to 2,000 lb. Towing Capacity (when properly equipped)
  • Seating for 5
  • Leather Seats
  • 8-way Power Front Seats Driver’s Seat Memory Settings
  • Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
  • Heated Outboard Rear Seats
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Windshield Wiper De-Icer
  • LED Exterior Lighting
  • 10.1-inch Connect 5 Infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • 10.25-inch Frameless Digital Gauge Cluster
  • 31.4 Cubic Feet of Storage Behind 2nd Row
  • 56.3 Cubic Feet of Storage with the 2nd Row Folded
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Proximity Key with Push Button Start
  • EPA Fuel Economy 24/32(city/hwy)
  • Starting MSRP $34,190
  • Price as tested: $44,465
  • All images courtesy of Capturing the Machine .

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    2023 Jeep Compass Trailhawk

    4
    OVERALL SCORE

    PROS

    • New 2.0L engine paired with an 8-speed automatic replaces the previous clunky 9-speed combo
    • Best-in-class 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque for the segment
    • Trail-rated off-road capability with Selec-Terrain traction modes
    • Comfortable, well-appointed interior with 10.1-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats

    CONS

    • No explicit criticism offered in the text; smaller footprint than the Grand Cherokee it echoes
    • Still carries the Compass's sub-compact proportions which limit interior and cargo space vs. larger Jeeps
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