Jeep Compass vs Mazda CX-5
The Jeep Compass and Mazda CX-5 both include standard all-wheel drive, which sets them apart in the compact class. The short answer: the Compass adds an off-road Trailhawk and turbocharged power, while the CX-5 leans on an upscale interior and driving refinement. Here is how they compare.
Jeep Compass vs Mazda CX-5: specs compared
Specs compared
| Specification |
Jeep Compass |
Mazda CX-5 |
| Starting MSRP |
About $30,990 |
About $30,000 |
| Standard drive |
All-wheel drive |
All-wheel drive |
| Engine |
2.0L turbo (200 hp) |
2.5L (187 hp) |
| Fuel economy (combined) |
Up to 26 mpg |
Up to 28 mpg |
| Off-road trim |
Trailhawk |
None |
| Interior |
Rugged, functional |
Upscale, driver-focused |
By the numbers
| Specification |
Jeep Compass |
Mazda CX-5 |
| Starting MSRP |
About $30,990 |
About $30,000 |
| Standard all-wheel drive |
Yes |
Yes |
| Off-road trim |
Trailhawk |
None |
| Horsepower |
200 |
187 |
Starting MSRP is the manufacturer’s suggested retail price and may or may not include destination charges; it excludes taxes, title, and dealer fees. Contact us for current pricing.
Two AWD compacts
Both the Compass and CX-5 include all-wheel drive on every trim, which most rivals do not. The Compass adds a functional off-road Trailhawk; the CX-5 focuses on on-road polish.
Interior and driving
The CX-5 is known for an upscale, driver-focused cabin and refined handling. The Compass counters with a more rugged feel, more horsepower, and genuine off-road capability on the Trailhawk.
Power and value
The Compass makes 200 horsepower from its turbo four; the CX-5 makes 187 from its 2.5-liter. The two start close on price, both with all-wheel drive included.
The bottom line for Perry shoppers
Choose the CX-5 for interior feel and driving refinement. Choose the Compass for off-road ability and turbocharged power. At ALM CDJR Perry, a new Compass can add ALM VIP Club benefits and our Included Lifetime Warranty on qualifying vehicles.
See all Compass comparisons
Jeep Compass vs Mazda CX-5 FAQ
Is the Jeep Compass better than the Mazda CX-5?
It depends. Both include standard all-wheel drive. The Compass adds an off-road Trailhawk and more horsepower; the CX-5 offers an upscale interior and refined handling.
Do both come with all-wheel drive?
Yes. The Compass and CX-5 are two of the few compact SUVs with all-wheel drive standard on every trim.
Which has more power?
The Compass, with 200 horsepower from its turbocharged four versus 187 for the CX-5’s 2.5-liter.
Which is better off-road?
The Compass Trailhawk, which adds skid plates, tow hooks, and a low-range mode. The CX-5 has no dedicated off-road trim.
Which has a nicer interior?
The CX-5 is widely praised for its upscale, driver-focused cabin. The Compass interior is more rugged and functional.
Which should I buy?
For interior feel, the CX-5. For off-road ability and power, the Compass. We can arrange a Compass test drive at ALM CDJR Perry.