Jeep Compass vs. MAZDA CX-5

Both models are capable of towing a maximum of 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. Which begs the question, what type of equipment does each one pack under its hood?

The Mazda has a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that yields 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This motor is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While that may be sufficient for your everyday drives, the Jeep has more to offer.

The Compass comes ready to play with its 2.0L Turbo engine that generates 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Plus, it has an 8-speed automatic transmission compared to the 6-speed of the CX-5. Those two additional gears help the Jeep’s engine to perform optimally and help improve fuel economy.

The Mazda CX-5 comes standard with an all-wheel drive system to deliver power to each wheel on the road. If you’re looking for more dynamic capability, however, you may find yourself looking elsewhere.

Continuing the legendary Jeep tradition, for the model year the Compass now offers standard 4×4 on every trim. This lets you head out into the wild or any type of weather with peace of mind. You’ll have power delivered to each wheel as it needs it, making it easy to conquer the land ahead. The incredible 4×4 system in the Compass makes it great for adventurers.

There’s plenty of fun to be had out in nature, so your vehicle should be ready to take on the bumps and unpredictable terrain.

The Jeep Compass was designed with exploration in mind with:

Its high air intake, combined with special water sealing, makes it great for water fording. You can take your Jeep over streams, puddles, creeks, and more thanks to the excellent design. Plus, the increased articulation lets the Compass travel over small rocks and other uneven surfaces with ease.

While the Jeep Compass is made for tackling the off-road, the Mazda CX-5 only offers an off-road mode. You might be limited to the road for your adventures in the CX-5, while the Compass unlocks more opportunities for fun.

Another area where the Jeep Compass continues to prove its readiness to take on nearly anything Mother Nature has to offer is the Trailhawk trim and its Trail Rated® badge.

Plus, it offers several other helpful systems to tackle a variety of driving conditions. Among these features are:

Unfortunately, the CX-5 goes without similar systems to take on the elements and more rugged terrain.

When you’re going on adventures, both on- and off-road, you’ll want to have space to stretch out. In the front, the legroom of the Compass extends to 41.8 inches, while the front legroom in the CX-5 only reaches 41 inches. In the rear row, you’ll find these dimensions:

• Jeep Compass shoulder room (rear): 55.1 inches
• Mazda CX-5 shoulder room (rear): 54.8 inches

Both cars can sport power liftgates to access the trunk. At their maximum, these SUVs provide nearly the same amount of space. The Jeep expands to 59.8 cubic feet of cargo space in the back, while the Mazda offers slightly less at 59.3 cubic feet of cargo space.