2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Audi Q7

The 2020 Audi Q7 offered a range of engine options, including the 45 TFSI with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and the 55 TFSI with a mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. A performance-oriented SQ7 with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 was also available. The Q7 55 TFSI, starting at $60,800, was tested in the Prestige trim, featuring Navarra Blue metallic paint and additional packages, totaling $74,290. The 2020 model received design updates, aligning it with the flagship Q8, and featured 20-inch turbine-style wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Verde tires. Inside, the Q7 adopted the high-tech dashboard from the Q8, replacing physical controls with digital displays, including Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. The cabin, adorned in Okapi Brown leather and wood inlays, exuded luxury, enhanced by multi-color ambient lighting.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling evolved over time, becoming more proportionate since its debut. The exterior appearance varied by trim, with the entry-level Latitude featuring 17-inch wheels and FWD, while the 80th Anniversary Edition boasted 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted cladding. Jeep's expertise in roof design was evident with the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded SUV market, resembling the larger Grand Cherokee from the front. Its design was practical, with a simple, businesslike interior that varied in quality depending on the trim level, from the basic Latitude to the more upscale Trailhawk and Latitude Lux with leather upholstery.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI introduced a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to enhance fuel efficiency, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. Audi Drive Select offered multiple driving modes, and the SUV accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, with a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The EPA rated it at 18 mpg combined, but it averaged 21 mpg on a road trip. The Prestige trim included an adaptive air suspension, enhancing ride quality and off-road capability. The Q7 excelled in agility and quietness, thanks to dual-pane acoustic glass, making it enjoyable on winding roads and highways.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 hp, a 3.2-liter V6 with 271 hp, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Cherokee's acceleration was modest, with the V6 achieving 0 to 60 mph in about 7.2 seconds. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, known for its reliability. The Trailhawk model excelled off-road, equipped with Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in FWD, appealing to budget-conscious buyers, though off-road enthusiasts preferred the 4WD models.

The 2020 Audi Q7, with three rows of seats, was best suited for five passengers. The third row was cramped, suitable only for children, and reduced cargo space to 14.2 cubic feet. Folding it expanded capacity to 35.7 cubic feet, and with both rows down, it offered 69.6 cubic feet. The Prestige trim provided comfortable seating with heated and ventilated front seats, ample second-row legroom, and a panoramic sunroof. However, interior storage was limited, with minimal space for personal items.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 55 cubic feet when folded, lagging behind competitors. It provided 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, competitive in its class. The interior was straightforward, varying in quality by trim. The Trailhawk featured suede inserts, while the Latitude Lux offered leather upholstery, enhancing the cabin's appeal.

The 2020 Audi Q7 introduced MMI Touch Response technology with dual touchscreens, offering natural voice and handwriting recognition, wireless smartphone integration, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system was intuitive but occasionally unresponsive to dry fingertips. The Prestige trim included a head-up display and a Bose sound system, though Audi upgraded to Bang & Olufsen for 2021.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. Available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though wired. The Cherokee offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience in various climates.

The 2020 Audi Q7's HD Matrix LED headlights were impressive but rated "poor" by IIHS for glare. It included advanced driving-assistance systems, with features like Emergency Assist and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, traffic-sign recognition issues led to braking errors. The Q7 received top IIHS ratings, except for headlights.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee earned "Good" crashworthiness scores from IIHS but lacked a Top Safety Pick award. Its headlights received mixed ratings. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional on higher trims.