Compass EV Review: Jeep’s All-Electric Leap into the Future
Jeep’s doing what many thought unlikely—electrifying one of its most compact SUVs. The 2026 Compass EV is not just a badge job. It’s a clean-sheet rethink built on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform, with real electric guts and the same rugged flavor Jeep loyalists crave.
- Manufactured in the USA, with early production for Europe beginning in Italy, and North American models expected in 2026.
- First unveiled in Q4 2025 for Europe, with U.S. availability pushed due to tariff and production shifts.
- Starting around $27,500 (€25,575), the Compass EV promises solid value in the compact electric SUV class.
Compass EV Specs and Tech Breakdown
Battery and Range
The high-output AWD variant gets a hearty 97 kWh battery, delivering up to 650 km (404 miles) on the WLTP cycle—roughly 320 miles (515 km) EPA-estimated. Need a quick top-up? DC fast-charging at 160 kW takes you from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Standard AC charging comes at 11 kW, or step up to 22 kW for home speedsters.
- Battery capacity: 97 kWh
- Charging (DC Fast): 20–80% in ~30 minutes
- Estimated range: 650 km (404 miles WLTP), ~515 km (320 miles EPA)
Performance and Power
Top dog in the lineup pumps out 375 horsepower (280 kW) and zips to 60 mph in just under 5.5 seconds. That’s hot-hatch pace in SUV clothing. You also get a meaty 232 Nm of torque and AWD grip, with off-road credibility baked in.
- Power: 375 hp (280 kW)
- Torque: 232 Nm (171 lb-ft)
- Top speed: 210 km/h (130 mph)
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph in ~5.5 sec (est.)
Mod options? There’s also a front-wheel-drive 213-hp variant with a 73 kWh battery and a mid-tier AWD that splits the difference on power and range.
Exterior and Interior Design Details
Exterior
Jeep kept it unmistakably Compass but added sharper lines and 20-inch wheels. Expect matrix LED headlights, clean aero surfaces, and a boxy silhouette perfect for urban trails or backwoods mischief. Ground clearance sits at 7.9 inches (200 mm), and the angles—20° approach, 15° breakover, 26° departure—say it’s more than city-capable.
Interior
Inside, it’s tech-forward without turning into a spaceship. A massive 16-inch touchscreen anchors the dash, paired with a 10-inch digital cluster. Soft-touch materials, layered trims, and optional leatherette seats with blue stitching bring visual polish. Rear space is improved, though still tight with the sunroof option.
Pros and Cons of the Jeep Compass EV
Pros
- 404-mile (650 km) range from a 97 kWh pack
- Fast 160 kW charging capability
- Off-road specs better than most compact EVs
- Balanced tech and usability with physical controls
- AWD variant delivers 375 hp and strong trail confidence
Cons
- Rear space remains tight for taller passengers
- Boot space still trails competitors like CR-V
- Delayed U.S. launch could dampen early momentum
- Unknown reliability from a new platform and mixed Jeep record
- Top trims push close to $50,000 (€46,500)
Conclusion: Should You Wait for the Compass EV?
If you’ve been hunting for a compact SUV with real electric chops and that signature Jeep flavor, the Compass EV might just hit the sweet spot. With over 400 miles of range, true AWD, and a price that undercuts the Model Y, it walks the talk. Sure, it’s not perfect—rear seating could be more generous, and reliability is a bit of a question mark. But for folks who want to plug in and still play dirty off-road, this rig’s worth a look once it finally lands in the States.
Exterior and Interior photos of Jeep Compass EV
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Comparison:
The Compass EV enters a dense jungle of electric compact SUVs, and it’s swinging at the big hitters. With a 97 kWh battery and 375 hp, it’s going toe-to-toe with the likes of the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4. While each has its edge, Jeep leans into what it knows best—grit and go-anywhere attitude.
Range
The Compass EV offers up to 650 km (404 miles) WLTP. The Tesla Model Y Long Range is close at 533 km (331 miles) EPA. Hyundai Ioniq 5 clocks in at 507 km (315 miles), while the Ford Mustang Mach-E Extended Range manages 490 km (305 miles). Volkswagen ID.4 lags with around 400 km (250 miles). For raw endurance, the Compass takes pole position.
Acceleration
Jeep estimates 0–60 mph in about 5.5 seconds for the AWD Compass EV. That trails the Model Y (4.8 sec) and Mach-E (5.2 sec), but edges past the ID.4 (7.6 sec) and Ioniq 5 (5.8 sec). Quick, but not neck-snapping.
Power
With 375 hp (280 kW), the Compass EV shares top-tier status with the Mach-E AWD (346 hp) and Ioniq 5 AWD (320 hp). ID.4 makes 295 hp, and Model Y pushes 384 hp. Power-wise, it’s competitive but not class-leading.
Charging Time
Jeep’s 160 kW fast-charging matches Ioniq 5 and Model Y, both under 30 minutes 10–80%. Mach-E and ID.4 trail at around 38–45 minutes. Compass keeps pace with the leaders.
Price
The Compass EV’s $27,500 (€25,575) starting price undercuts most rivals. Model Y begins at $44,990 (€41,840), Ioniq 5 at $42,000 (€39,000), Mach-E from $39,995 (€37,200), and ID.4 from $38,995 (€36,200). Jeep’s entry-level positioning is one of the strongest arguments in its corner.
FAQ:
What is the range on a single charge?
The Compass EV delivers up to 650 km (404 miles) WLTP, or roughly 515 km (320 miles) under EPA standards for the AWD variant with the 97 kWh battery.
How long does it take to fully charge?
Using DC fast charging at 160 kW, the Compass EV charges from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes. AC charging at 11 kW takes roughly 8 hours, or 4 hours with the optional 22 kW unit.
What is battery capacity?
The top Compass EV variant includes a 97 kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of delivering over 400 miles (650 km) of range under WLTP testing.
What is the top speed?
The Compass EV has a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph), making it one of the quicker compact electric SUVs available.
What is total power?
The highest-spec AWD model delivers 375 hp (280 kW), providing strong acceleration and off-road readiness.
What is the price of a Compass EV?
The Compass EV starts at $27,500 (€25,575) for base models, with higher AWD trims reaching up to $50,000 (€46,500).
Are electric vehicles more expensive than gasoline cars?
Generally yes upfront, but EVs like the Compass EV offer lower operating costs and qualify for incentives that help offset the higher initial price.
What is total torque?
The top-tier Compass EV AWD version produces 232 Nm (171 lb-ft) of torque, improving off-road capability and hill climbing.
Can electric vehicles be charged at any charging station?
Most EVs including the Compass EV can charge at standard Type 2 or CCS stations, compatible with public and home setups.
Are electric vehicles suitable for cold climates?
Yes, modern EVs like the Compass EV include thermal battery management systems that help retain range in colder temperatures.