2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a handsome profile that saw only incremental improvements. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-liter engine, though seemingly unchanged, featured 90% new parts, while higher trims offered a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine for more power. Exterior changes were subtle, focusing on head- and taillights, while interior upgrades included an 11.6-inch touchscreen and innovative DriverFocus technology. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at $26,645, with safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking standard across the lineup.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with a more proportioned look despite its short grille and swept-back headlights. Trim levels significantly influenced its appearance, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels. The Cherokee offered a panoramic sunroof option, enhancing its distinctiveness among crossover SUVs. Its resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee, especially from the front, helped it stand out in a crowded market.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured a 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower, a 7-hp increase from 2019, and improved fuel efficiency at 26 mpg city and 33 highway. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in XT trims delivered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and enhanced on-road and off-road performance, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and upgraded X-Mode on the Onyx XT trim.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 hp, a 3.2-liter V-6 with 271 hp, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 and turbo-four engines achieved 0-60 mph in about 7.2 and 7.4 seconds, respectively. All engines were mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, praised for its fuel-saving capabilities. The Cherokee Trailhawk model excelled off-road, featuring Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in FWD, appealing to budget-conscious buyers and rental fleets.

The 2020 Subaru Outback, a station wagon, offered 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded. It provided ample passenger space, with enough room for a 6’4” driver to sit comfortably in both front and rear seats. The Outback's design prioritized visibility, though rear-quarter blind spots remained a concern. Optional blind-spot monitoring was available to address this issue.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 55 cubic feet with seats folded. It provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, competitive within its class. The interior varied by trim, from the basic Latitude with rubberized plastic to the upscale Trailhawk with suede inserts and the Latitude Lux with Nappa leather. The Cherokee's cabin was simple and businesslike, focusing on functionality over luxury.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, praised for its size and ease of use but criticized for lag and low camera resolution. Climate controls were sometimes buried in menus, causing inconvenience. Despite these issues, the system showed potential for improvement.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee boasted the Uconnect infotainment system, available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, known for their user-friendly interface and minimal latency. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience in various climates.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's safety features included a standard AWD system and EyeSight technology, though the latter faced issues with obstruction. DriverFocus, intended to alert distracted drivers, was criticized for frequent false alerts. Despite these concerns, Subaru maintained a strong safety reputation.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received "Good" crashworthiness scores from the IIHS but lacked a Top Safety Pick award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims.