The 2020 Jeep Compass, with front-wheel drive and the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, gets an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. This isn’t amazing, but it’s an acceptable compromise for buyers who want Jeep’s styling, practical cargo space, and available off-road capability in other Compass versions. People often consider it if they’re after an affordable crossover with a well-known brand.

City and highway performance

The 25 MPG combined rating breaks down to 22 MPG in the city. Stop-and-go traffic and slower speeds decrease fuel economy, which is typical for a naturally aspirated engine with a conventional automatic transmission. The 31 MPG highway rating is better, making it suitable for commuters who drive a lot on the highway. Keep in mind that constant acceleration or speeds over 70 mph will lower the MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Jeep Compass FWD 2.4L at $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel cost will depend on your driving, local fuel prices, and the fuel type you use. Think about your driving habits to get a more accurate estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but the actual MPG may vary. You can expect numbers close to the EPA’s if you drive normally. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and heavy loads will reduce fuel economy. Cold weather also usually reduces fuel efficiency because of increased engine friction and winter tires, which increase rolling resistance. You’ll get the best MPG on the highway at consistent speeds.

How it compares

Several compact crossovers are available, with different fuel economies. The Honda HR-V gets a more impressive 28 MPG combined. The Nissan Kicks, designed for fuel economy and not all-wheel drive, gets 33 MPG combined. Even the Mazda CX-5, known for sporty handling, gets 28 MPG combined with front-wheel drive, even though some trims have a more powerful engine. However, the Compass appeals to buyers who don’t only care about fuel economy, so the lower MPG is acceptable for Jeep styling and the available Trailhawk off-road trim. For those looking for all Jeep fuel economy data, you can see comparisons among all of the brand’s vehicles.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking help save fuel in any vehicle, but are especially important in the Compass. Don’t accelerate quickly, and try to anticipate traffic instead of braking hard. The Compass’s 2.4L engine works best with a light foot, so accelerate gradually.

Tire pressure affects fuel economy a lot. Make sure your tires are inflated to the pressure on the door sticker, not the maximum pressure on the tire. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel.

Extra weight reduces fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk. Extra weight strains the engine, increasing fuel use. Also, remove aftermarket roof racks when you’re not using them. Headwinds significantly decrease fuel economy, and roof racks make it worse.

Think about the route you take, especially in the city. Choosing routes with fewer traffic lights and less stop-and-go driving can improve your MPG. Avoiding rush hour, even with a longer route, can save fuel. If you are interested in the COMPASS MPG across all years to see how the vehicle compares year-to-year, visit our COMPASS MPG page.