When it comes to tackling mud, snow, ice, or rocky conditions, you’ll need to have the proper drivetrain by your side. In the 2023 Jeep Compass, you’ll have the option to add on 4-wheel drive (4WD). It sends power and stability to all four tires to provide more control on rugged terrain.

The Kia Sportage, on the other hand, is only available with all-wheel drive. While this system is helpful for getting through heavy rains and light snow, it’s not as ready for off-road conditions as 4WD.

In addition to a 4WD drivetrain, the Jeep Compass is also be armed with a Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System that offers the following selectable driving modes:

• Auto
• Snow
• Sand/Mud
• Rock

Whether you’re staying on the paved path or heading across a beach, this feature is sure to have your back.

In the Sportage, you can choose from three drive modes: Normal, Smart, and Sport. However, as you can see, there aren’t as many options as with the Compass.

Front and center in both the Compass and the Sportage, an expansive entertainment display allows you to curate your listening experience to your specific mood. Simply plug in your compatible smartphone and you’ll be connected to either Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™ integration, giving you access to some of your favorite apps.

As you indulge in a new podcast or your favorite album, you’ll be able to melt into the available heated front seats found in the Jeep Compass and the Kia Sportage. On especially chilly evenings, your friends in the back row will love the heated rear seats in the Compass, too.

Unfortunately, they’ll be left out in the cold with the Sportage since this interior comfort feature isn’t available.

To help prevent frontal collisions in a range of situations, the 2023 Jeep Compass and the Kia Sportage come standard with Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking. This system measures the distance between your SUV and frontal obstacles to alert you when you’re too close.

In certain instances, it can even apply the brakes to help keep you out of harm’s way.

For even more eyes on the road, turn to Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection. When changing lanes, it lets you know when another car is traveling in your side blind zones so you can leave your lane safely. It also lends a hand when backing out of parking spaces by alerting you to approaching vehicles.

In the Compass, this feature comes standard to assist all drivers. You’ll have to upgrade to a higher trim level in the Sportage to access this feature.