2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2019 Jeep Cherokee

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee underwent a significant design transformation, moving away from its previous polarizing style to a more conventional appearance. The front-end redesign replaced the isolated daytime running lights and fog-light-like headlights with a more traditional configuration. The rear also saw changes, with the license plate frame moved to the center of the hatch, giving it a more modern look. Inside, the Cherokee maintained its practical and logical control layout, reminiscent of a downsized Grand Cherokee. The cabin offered a blend of form and function, with ample storage compartments and a user-friendly design. The Cherokee was available in several trims, each offering varying levels of equipment and luxury, from the base Latitude to the off-road-focused Trailhawk.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 adopted a bolder and more angular design, enhancing its rugged appearance. The TRD Off-Road trim, introduced in 2020, further emphasized its off-road capabilities with unique wheels, tires, and a specialized suspension setup. The interior of the RAV4 TRD Off-Road featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated front seats, providing comfort and practicality. The RAV4 offered generous rear legroom and ample cargo space, making it a versatile choice for families. The TRD Off-Road trim also included a robust roof rack, enhancing its utility for outdoor adventures.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee offered a range of engines, including a base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 180 horsepower and a 3.2-liter V6 producing 271 horsepower. A new turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, was also available. The Cherokee featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and several 4-wheel-drive systems, including Active Drive I, Active Drive II, and Active Drive Lock, catering to different off-road needs. The Trailhawk trim, with its enhanced suspension, excelled in off-road conditions while maintaining comfort on paved roads. The Cherokee's towing capacity reached up to 4,500 pounds with the V6 engine, and its fuel economy varied depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it was not available with the TRD Off-Road trim. The RAV4's 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system and multiple terrain settings, making it capable on various surfaces. The RAV4's fuel economy was commendable, though the TRD Off-Road's all-terrain tires impacted its performance on mountain roads.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee's interior was designed for functionality, with a logical control layout and ample storage solutions. However, its cargo space was limited, offering just 25 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54 cubic feet with them folded. The hands-free power liftgate was a convenient option, though its sensor was occasionally unresponsive.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 provided easy access with well-positioned seating and a sporty driving position. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated seats. The RAV4 offered generous rear legroom and cargo space, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with them folded. The hands-free power liftgate and robust roof rack added to its practicality.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee featured a standard 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims offered an 8.3-inch system. The Uconnect system was praised for its user-friendly interface and responsive performance, though it lacked some of the more advanced features found in competitors.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's infotainment system varied by trim, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with SiriusXM and connected services. The TRD Off-Road's system impressed with its voice-recognition technology and optional Technology Package, which added features like wireless charging and a 360-degree camera.

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee came with standard safety features, including airbags, a reversing camera, and electronic stability control. Optional packages added advanced driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision avoidance.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure alert. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though its headlight performance varied by model.