The Subaru Crosstrek and the Jeep Compass want the same title as weekend warriors. While each SUV presents a tough, rugged exterior and a durable off-roading spec sheet to match, subtle differences appear when you look beyond the surface.

While each SUV is powerful, the Crosstrek offers more ground clearance, towing, and hauling potential. With the Subaru, you can more confidently traverse rocky trails and spring runoff while hauling paddleboards, a small trailer, or even setting up a rooftop tent to extend the adventure.

While the Compass Trailhawk trim is officially Trail Rated®, only that specific trim level meets off-road expectations. In contrast, every Crosstrek trim features standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE®, a system that strategically enhances off-roading capabilities by adjusting engine output and throttle response. The result? Every Crosstrek configuration is ready for gravel switchbacks or flooded trailhead adventures.

Specs matter, but so does soul. Your next SUV needs to do more than handle the trail—it needs to inspire adventure from the moment you step inside. Underbody skid plates and an anti-glare hood decal are available on select Subaru Crosstrek and Jeep Compass models, delivering next-level confidence when venturing far beyond the paved streets.

Going beyond these shared features is where the Subaru Crosstrek truly shines. Available StarTex® water-repellent upholstery is made for muddy paws, surprise rain showers, and trail dust. This plant-based, vegan leather upholstery is a smart alternative for those looking for a durable cabin that wants to leave the planet better than they found it.

The Compass has cloth or optional leather options, but nothing as functional as the Crosstrek. Thanks to these features, it's clear that the Crosstrek doesn't simply accommodate your adventurous lifestyle but encourages it.

Undeniably, the Subaru Crosstrek and the Jeep Compass carry their fair share of rugged charisma. The Compass delivers a more geometric look, while the Crosstrek leans into an adventurous silhouette with smoother edges and a confident stance.

Furthermore, you may find yourself drawn to the Crosstrek’s unique color palette, which features earthy tones of Geyser Blue, Sun Blaze, Alpine Green, and Offshore Blue. These tones better reflect your passion for the outdoors.

The Jeep Compass offers four selectable off-road settings for your everyday adventures, but the Subaru Crosstrek builds its system to be intuitive across the board. In addition to its off-road system, SI-DRIVE® (Subaru Intelligent Drive) engine management system lets you switch between two practical modes with a simple dial. Couple this with Active Torque Vectoring, which helps with cornering and on-road traction, and the Crosstrek proves its versatility in all weather conditions and on highway ramps.

Your morning commute is calling, and the Subaru Crosstrek and the Jeep Compass are ready to answer. Either SUV features available wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ integration. Once paired, your device’s familiar interface appears on the central touchscreen, allowing you to toggle through the playlists, podcasts, and compatible apps.

However, the Crosstrek’s available 11.6-inch vertically stacked touchscreen is more intuitive and less cluttered than the horizontal 10.1-inch display available in the Compass. While an inch may not seem like a major difference, the size and layout of these SUVs are invaluable when swapping between navigation, music, and your current audiobook.

Whether commuting to work or heading off-grid for a night under the stars, the Crosstrek turns everyday errands into micro-adventures.

Most modern vehicles offer advanced safety, and the Subaru Crosstrek and the Jeep Compass are no exception. But it’s how they deliver these safety features that differs. Jeep takes a more à la carte approach across its lineup, offering certain features here and there. Conversely, Subaru includes its award-winning EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology suite as standard on every Crosstrek.

EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology bundles key systems—like Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Pre-Collision Braking —into one integrated platform. The Compass offers these features, but often only on higher trims or as package add-ons.

The proof is in the results. The Subaru Crosstrek earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Compass landed a 4-star rating. For someone who often drives on rural highways with unpredictable traffic patterns, that extra star adds daily peace of mind.

The purchase of your Subaru Crosstrek or your Jeep Compass is a long-term investment. You can trust either model, knowing they share nearly identical warranty coverage. While the Crosstrek and the Compass appear as equals on paper, a deeper dive reveals a different story.

Studies show 97% of Subaru Crosstrek vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today.^* But the numbers only tell part of the story. The Crosstrek has earned praise where it matters most:

• Twice-selected Car and Driver Editor’s Choice vehicle^**
• Best New Car by Autotrader^***
• Best New Car for Teens, according to Kelley Blue Book^****

Additionally, Consumer Reports consistently ranks the Crosstrek among its top picks for reliability and ownership experience. The Compass? Not so much. So, when you choose the Crosstrek, you can feel confident that you’re investing 10 years of trails, road trips, and tiny, meaningful moments.