2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Lexus RX

Lexus refreshed the RX for the 2020 model year, giving it significant upgrades inside and out. The exterior of the 2020 RX featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights. The SUV’s grille was altered to resemble the face on Lexus cars, and two new paint colors were introduced: Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl. The dual exhaust, rear diffuser, and updated reflectors created a fresh backside, and an available hands-free tailgate added convenience. Inside, the cabin was well-appointed with various interior colors and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport appearance package added unique features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels. Leather-wrapped surfaces provided a premium feel, and the RX maintained a hardy appearance suitable for family life. However, the center stack's dated look was a drawback as the industry moved towards more stylish appointments.

The Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with a more proportioned look despite the short grille opening and swept-back headlights. The exterior appearance varied significantly with trim levels. The entry-level Latitude with 17-inch wheels and FWD looked basic, while the 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding appeared more upscale. Jeep's expertise in roof design was evident with the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded field of crossover SUVs, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee from the front.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, achieving 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The three-row RX 350L models had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, producing 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450hL had a similar setup but with 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. Fuel economy was a strong suit for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models featured adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels for enhanced agility. Various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and EV mode for hybrids, allowed for a customizable driving experience.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 3.2-liter V6 with 271 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifting and fuel efficiency. The Cherokee's off-road capability was notable, especially in the Trailhawk model, which featured Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee's acceleration was adequate, with a 0-60 mph time of about 7.2 seconds for the V6 and 7.4 seconds for the turbo-four. The availability of FWD helped keep the price competitive, though it was less common among buyers.

The Lexus RX interior was comfortable for four adults in the two-row model, but the third row in the RX-L was best suited for small children or pets. The cabin was wide and tall, with comfortable front seats and good outward visibility, though the A-pillar could impede the driver's view of curbs and corners. The cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor that compromised space. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on RX-L versions.

The Jeep Cherokee filled a space between the smaller Renegade and larger Grand Cherokee, competing with compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Cherokee's cargo space was limited, with 26 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded. Passenger volume was about 102 cubic feet, making it competitive in its class. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with trim levels affecting the overall feel. The Latitude trim featured rubberized black plastic, while the Trailhawk had suede seat inserts and contrasting stitching. The Latitude Lux offered perforated Nappa leather upholstery for a more upscale appearance.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for the 2020 model. The standard 8.0-inch display and available 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. Despite these changes, the system remained difficult to navigate. However, standard Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other integrations provided workarounds. The RX also featured a 12-speaker audio system, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available. Two additional USB ports were added, bringing the total to six.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its ease of use. Available with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens, the system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wirelessly. The Cherokee also offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, adding convenience in various climates. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis brands, providing a familiar experience for users.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. New for 2020 were daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS but received "Good" scores in crashworthiness and a G+ score for LATCH ease of use. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was only available on the Limited and Trailhawk trims.