2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience beyond mere claims. This model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin aesthetics, and noise reduction, alongside a turbocharged engine with increased torque and an AWD system featuring off-road traction assistance. The CX-5's design, rooted in the "Kodo" styling philosophy, remained appealing and upscale, with the Signature trim offering luxurious touches like Nappa leather and real wood. However, the interior's lack of contrast in color choices slightly diminished its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its timeless appeal, blending rugged utility with upscale sophistication. Its design, characterized by big wheels and flared fenders, contributed to its enduring success. The Grand Cherokee's lineup offered a range of trims from the affordable Laredo to the plush Summit, with performance models like the SRT and Trackhawk. The Summit trim, with its Platinum Series Group, enhanced the vehicle's premium look, while the interior boasted premium materials and a striking color scheme. Despite its luxurious cabin, the Grand Cherokee's interior showed signs of aging, with outdated switchgear and component fits.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged version in the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims delivered up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated confidently, though it was less efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions detracted from the overall thrill.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing up to 6,200 pounds. An optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 provided 360 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque, and a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8's cylinder deactivation technology aimed to improve fuel efficiency, though it achieved only 18.2 mpg in testing. The Grand Cherokee's Quadra-Trac II 4WD system and Quadra-Lift air suspension enhanced off-road capabilities, while its tight turning radius and responsive brakes made it versatile in various driving conditions.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and well-equipped, was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Signature trim added luxury with Nappa leather and genuine wood, but rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. A power liftgate was standard on higher trims.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit featured supportive seats with a Signature Leather-Wrapped Interior Package, though rear legroom was snug. The optional rear-seat entertainment system added to the sense of claustrophobia. Cargo space was 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seat, with a maximum of 68.3 cubic feet. Practical storage solutions included grocery bag hooks and a power liftgate with a conveniently placed closing button.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system offered an upscale impression but required acclimation. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and HD Radio, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added in higher trims. The Grand Touring trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen and a Bose sound system, while the Signature trim added navigation and a surround-view camera. Interaction options included touchscreen, console controls, and voice recognition, though the latter was less effective.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's Uconnect 4C with Nav system provided a nearly flawless user experience with fast response and pleasing graphics. Features included navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system's voice recognition worked well, and the Summit trim boasted a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Despite its age, the Grand Cherokee's tech offerings remained impressive, though it was considered "tech lite" compared to upcoming models.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in individual tests.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's safety ratings were mixed. While it received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA with 4WD, its IIHS ratings were less favorable, with "Marginal" and "Poor" ratings in certain tests. The Summit trim included a comprehensive ProTech II Package with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, but the Grand Cherokee's safety performance was a concern.