24 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2015 Jeep Compass FWD with the 2.0L four-cylinder, it’s a reasonable compromise between capability and economy that many buyers found acceptable. This wasn’t a vehicle chosen for its cutting-edge efficiency; it was chosen for its iconic Jeep styling, compact size, and relative affordability. The fuel economy was simply part of owning a Jeep.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 22 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the demands placed on the older, naturally aspirated 2.0L engine, which needs to work a bit harder in stop-and-go traffic. The automatic transmission, while offering an infinite number of ratios thanks to its CVT design, isn’t the most responsive, so drivers tend to lean on the throttle more in urban environments. On the highway, however, the Compass settles into a more comfortable and efficient cruising speed, allowing it to achieve the slightly better 26 MPG rating. These figures are for the front-wheel drive model; opting for four-wheel drive invariably takes a further toll on fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,800 for the 2015 Jeep Compass FWD 2.0L. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving and using the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the price of gasoline in your area, and how many miles you actually drive each year. However, it provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Compass to other vehicles in its class and for budgeting your transportation expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. A lot depends on driving style. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will significantly reduce fuel economy. Similarly, consistently driving at speeds above 70 mph on the highway will negatively impact your MPG. Weather conditions also play a role; cold temperatures and winter-blend gasoline can reduce fuel economy, as can using the air conditioning frequently in hot weather. Terrain matters, too. A Compass driven primarily in hilly or mountainous areas isn’t going to achieve the same fuel economy as one driven on flat, even roads.

How it compares

The 2015 Compass’s fuel economy wasn’t class-leading, even back then. A comparable Honda CR-V, for example, achieved 27 MPG combined with its CVT transmission and front-wheel drive. The Subaru Forester, another popular compact SUV known for its standard all-wheel drive, still managed 25 MPG combined in its non-turbocharged variants. Even the Nissan Rogue, with its focus on comfort and space, delivered around 28 MPG combined. The Compass buyer is prioritizing other factors: Jeep’s image, affordability, and potentially its off-road styling over outright fuel efficiency. They’re willing to accept slightly lower MPG in exchange for the brand appeal and the (perceived or real) ruggedness that Jeep offers. For updated COMPASS MPG across all years, be sure to check our data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and maintain it diligently. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. This is especially true given the Compass’s somewhat basic suspension and the need to keep rolling resistance to a minimum.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Accelerate smoothly and brake gently. Anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking and acceleration. Using cruise control on the highway can also help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy. The CVT in the Compass works best with gradual throttle inputs, so resist the urge to floor it.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any items you don’t need from your vehicle, as extra weight reduces fuel economy. Especially in a vehicle with a smaller engine like the 2.0L in the Compass, every extra pound makes a difference.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other services. A clogged air filter, for instance, restricts airflow to the engine, reducing performance and fuel economy. This is critical for keeping any Jeep running smoothly; learn more about all Jeep fuel economy data.