New Turbocharged 2023 Jeep® Compass Gains MPG Across The Board!

Sep 13, 2023

Coming off an impressive redesign in 2022, the 2023 Jeep® Compass (MP) looks to solve the only remaining issue plaguing the compact C-segment SUV: performance.

For 2023, Jeep has given the Compass a new engine and standard four-wheel drive (4×4) across the lineup. Under the hood lies a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission. The combination is good for 200 horsepower and 221 lb.-ft. of torque and alters the Compass’ on-road characteristics making it have better responsiveness and passing capability.

Fitted with Engine Stop-Start (ESS) technology, this new powertrain delivers low emissions and much improved 0 to 60 mph time. The turbo 2.0-liter features a twin-scroll, low inertia turbocharger with an electric actuated waste gate for exceptional responsiveness and performance, even while traversing over difficult terrain. The turbo is mounted directly to the cylinder head to reduce emissions and improve durability. A dedicated cooling circuit lowers the temperature of the intake air, throttle body and turbocharger.

Hydraulic-filled mounts absorb vibrations from the engine, preventing them from being transmitted to the cockpit, for a smooth and premium feel for the driver and passengers. The driver will also notice improved handling via a larger rear stabilizer bar and unique tuning of the Electronic Power Steering system. The engine is part of the Stellantis Global Medium Engine family and features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), dual independent camshaft timing, and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (C-EGR) system.

Direct fuel injection, coupled with turbocharging, enables more efficient combustion, reduced emissions and increased performance. The fuel pump supplies the engine's 2,900-psi high-pressure common-rail injection system. These high pressures produce better fuel atomization and allow for more precise fuel delivery than port fuel-injected systems. The cast-aluminum alloy cylinder head features a central injector and high tumble intake ports. This combination provides high charge motion and balanced air flow to improve fuel efficiency and performance. Integrated into the cylinder head is a water-cooled exhaust manifold to reduce emissions while providing increased engine reliability.

The turbo 2.0-liter features a low-pressure, sand cast-aluminum block with cast-in iron liner with an 84mm bore and 90mm stroke for a total displacement of 1,995cc. Cast-aluminum pistons, with a 10:1 compression ratio, have four valve pockets to accommodate the dual variable-valve timing [VVT] system. Each cylinder bore is fitted with gallery-mounted piston oil cooling jets to limit piston temperatures, reduce spark knock and increase piston durability. Select-fit main and rod bearings enable reduced clearances to help lower system oil demand and oil pumping effort. In addition, floating piston pins utilize diamond-like coating (DLC) for reduced friction. The high-energy ignition system includes a high-energy ignition coil for better fuel efficiency. Precious-metal spark plugs with iridium and platinum provide lasting durability. Located in the center of the cam cover, the spark plugs are easily accessible when service is required. Sodium-filled exhaust valves and plasma-coated piston rings also help extend the engine's life and bolster durability.

A variable displacement two-stage oil pump provides high oil pressure under high speed but switches to a low-pressure mode for improved fuel economy during typical driving conditions. The piston cooling is also managed by the two-stage oil pump to enhance fuel economy under normal driving conditions while improving durability under demanding, high-load engine operation. A large capacity oil cooler extends the oil change interval and ensures engine durability. An inverted tooth primary chain drives both the intake and exhaust camshafts and minimizes noise. Camshafts are robotically assembled using hollow shafts to reduce weight. The use of hollow shafts provides a 3.5-lb. weight reduction when compared to an equivalent solid shaft.

The new 8-speed automatic transmission provides a more responsive driving experience with quicker acceleration and smoother shifting. The 8-speed enables the 2023 Compass to optimize engine output and smooth, efficient power delivery at highway speeds. Standard on all Compass models, the 8-speed is uniquely suited to the requirements of the Trailhawk model. The Trail Rated 4×4 rock-crawl ratio is enabled by a 4.71:1 first gear ratio coupled with a 4.398 final drive to deliver its 20:1 class-leading crawl ratio.

But how is it on fuel? Well thanks to those already built models headed for dealer showrooms this week, we get our first look at the official EPA fuel economy ratings thanks to the window sticker.

According to the 2023 window sticker, the new turbo 2.0-liter, 8-speed automatic, with 4×4 powertrain will get you 24 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy / 27 MPG combined. That's an improvement of 2 MPG across the board compared to the 2022 Jeep Compass 4×4 with the naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-four-cylinder paired to a 9-speed automatic.

We can't wait to spend some time behind the wheel of the 2023 Jeep Compass. The lame duck powertrain was our biggest complaint when we spend some time with the off-road-oriented Trailhawk model last year.