2024 Jeep Compass vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2024 Jeep Compass, tested in Michigan, presented a somewhat generic exterior, especially in its Sport trim. The model we evaluated was a white Compass with black plastic door handles and small wheels, reminiscent of a utility fleet vehicle. Its design was understated, with only the seven-slot grille hinting at its Jeep heritage. The Compass's body shape and taillights were similar to many small crossovers from the past two decades, lacking distinctiveness unless outfitted as a Trailhawk. Inside, however, the Compass impressed with its interior design and quality, particularly in the 2023 Limited trim. The cabin featured a black and gray color scheme with caramel leatherette accents, large screens, and superior fit and finish. Even the base model offered supportive cloth seats with blue stitching and textured inserts, along with a 10-inch infotainment screen and stylish silver plastic accents.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered a more varied design approach with its distinct Core, Rugged, and Sport designs, although the PHEV was limited to the Rugged Woodland and three Sport grades. The RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor but featured buffer bumpers that extended its length. The Woodland trim emphasized a boxy, truck-like presence with wide front fascia and solid panels replacing fog lights. The GR Sport trim, inspired by Toyota's Gazoo Racing division, showcased racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 PHEV boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with the option for a larger 12.9-inch screen on top trims. The interior was optimized for storage, with clever features like a shelf over the dashboard and a center console that could be flipped up from either side.

The 2024 Jeep Compass featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the Compass offered improved performance over its predecessor. It included three driving modes and a rear-axle disconnect for fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk trim added a low-range transfer case, extra driving modes, and all-terrain tires, enhancing off-road capability. However, steering and handling were weak points, with too much play off-center and low grip. The Compass's fuel economy was estimated at 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, and a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's power output increased to 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. It offered a range of 52 miles in EV mode and a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The RAV4 PHEV had multiple driving modes, including EV, Hybrid, and Charge, with seamless power transitions. The GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling with a lower ride height, 20-inch wheels, and summer performance tires. Despite its 4,500-pound weight, the RAV4 PHEV maintained a spirited ride and strong structural rigidity.

The 2024 Jeep Compass excelled in utility and ease of use, with clear analog gauges, a large color display, and physical climate controls. Visibility was good, and the interior offered ample headroom and legroom. The rear seats included vents, USB ports, and a fold-down center armrest. Cargo space was competitive, with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet when folded. The front passenger seat could also fold for carrying longer items.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's interior was well-equipped, with a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and multiple USB ports. The interior dimensions remained similar to the previous generation, with clever storage features like a dashboard shelf and a center console that could be flipped up. The RAV4 PHEV offered 37.8 inches of rear legroom and 33.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior was comfortable for four passengers, although five would be a squeeze.

The 2024 Jeep Compass came standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen featuring Uconnect 5 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB-C ports. The system was generally quick and easy to navigate, although the home screen lacked direct app switching. Optional features included factory navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a semi-automated driving system. Higher trims offered a 10.3-inch digital instrument panel, a panoramic moonroof, and a nine-speaker Alpine stereo.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch screen available on top trims. The touchscreen had customizable tiles and a quick menu for commonly used settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and loading times. The Voice Assistant responded to a range of prompts, and a built-in dash cam recorded clips from exterior cameras. The system also provided data for the plug-in hybrid system, including charging schedules and a range map.

The 2024 Jeep Compass had not been rated by the NHTSA at the time of writing, but the 2022 model received four out of five stars. The IIHS awarded the 2023 Compass a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a driver attention monitor. Adaptive cruise control and parking sensors were optional on higher trims.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a safe-exit alert. All but the base SE had a surround-view camera system. The RAV4's safety record was historically strong, with the 2025 model receiving five stars from the NHTSA.