2020 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler was a distinctive presence on the road, characterized by its circular headlights, seven-slat grille, and boxy design. Its industrial look was further accentuated by exposed hinges and bolts, and the option to fold down the windshield and remove the doors. The removable top added to its rugged persona, making it more of a "recreational utility vehicle" than a typical commuter car. Inside, the Wrangler embraced a retro aesthetic with circular climate vents and gauges, focusing on utility over luxury. The trims ranged from the basic Sport with manual windows to the upscale Sahara and the off-road-ready Rubicon, each offering varying levels of comfort and technology.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V had a more conventional appearance, blending in with other compact crossovers. While its exterior design was not its selling point, the CR-V offered a range of colors, albeit with limited vibrant options. Inside, the CR-V provided a modern look with angular seats and a choice of cloth or leather upholstery, depending on the trim. The interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with features like wood panels and chrome accents available in higher trims. Despite its understated design, the CR-V was a practical choice for those prioritizing functionality over style.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with a standard 6-speed manual transmission. An 8-speed automatic was available, particularly with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivered 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The standout was the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, generating 260 hp and an impressive 442 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent low-speed performance and highway overtaking capabilities. However, the Wrangler's ride was rough, with significant road noise and unique blind spots, making it more suited for off-road adventures than highway cruising. Its fuel economy with the diesel engine was 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined, which was an improvement over the gas-powered versions.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, was equipped with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims, offering smooth and steady acceleration. It reached 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds, which was competitive within its class. The CR-V featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provided predictable performance, though it lacked the engagement of traditional automatic transmissions found in some competitors. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup ensured decent handling and ride quality, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, with its four-door configuration, was a popular choice for those seeking adventure. Its removable doors, foldable windshield, and various roof options, including a soft top and a three-piece hardtop, allowed for a customizable open-air experience. However, its cargo space was limited to 72 cubic feet with the rear bench lowered, which was less than other SUVs like the Honda CR-V. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler sacrificed some comfort and cargo capacity for its off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in practicality, offering 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. This made it ideal for families and those needing ample storage. The CR-V's tailgate options varied by trim, with higher trims offering power and hands-free operation. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim, but the CR-V's overall design prioritized comfort and convenience for everyday use.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler's technology offerings varied by trim. The base Sport and Sport S trims featured a basic 5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The Rubicon and Sahara trims came with a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional 8.4-inch Uconnect system added navigation, HD Radio, and a premium audio system. The larger screen also included a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and other advanced features, enhancing the Wrangler's tech appeal.

In comparison, the 2021 Honda CR-V offered a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims except the base LX, which had a 5-inch screen. The audio system improved with each trim, culminating in a 300-watt system with a subwoofer in the Touring trim. The CR-V also provided multiple charging ports throughout the cabin, with the Touring trim adding a wireless phone charger. The availability of satellite navigation was limited to the top trim, but the CR-V's tech features were generally user-friendly and comprehensive.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler included standard safety features like airbags, electronic roll mitigation, and a backup camera. Optional safety packages added rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, which were beneficial given the Wrangler's unique sightlines. However, these features were not standard across all trims.

The 2021 Honda CR-V stood out in safety, earning top ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Its Honda Sensing system included a suite of advanced safety features as standard, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring, which was included from the EX trim upwards. This comprehensive approach to safety made the CR-V a strong contender in its class.