2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a few subtle yet significant updates. 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, offering 182 horsepower. For those seeking more power, the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine from the Ascent was available in higher trims. Externally, changes were minimal, with slight updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen on most trims and the innovative DriverFocus system, which used facial recognition to enhance driver safety and convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee continued to impress with its timeless design, combining rugged utility with upscale sophistication. Its lineup ranged from the affordable Laredo and Limited trims to the luxurious Overland and Summit, and the performance-oriented SRT and Trackhawk models. The Grand Cherokee Summit, with its 5.7-liter V8 engine and Quadra-Trac II 4WD system, offered a premium experience with features like the Platinum Series Group and Signature Leather-Wrapped Interior Package. However, the interior showed signs of aging, with outdated switchgear and non-flush panel fits, indicating a need for a redesign.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. The Outback's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and enhanced safety, while its 8.7 inches of ground clearance allowed for moderate off-road capabilities. However, its approach, departure, and breakover angles limited its off-road prowess compared to more rugged vehicles.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, with an optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V8, equipped with cylinder deactivation technology, offered a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. The Grand Cherokee's Quadra-Trac II 4WD system, Selec-Terrain traction management, and Quadra-Lift air suspension provided excellent off-road capabilities, with ground clearance adjustable from 8.6 to 10.8 inches. Despite its off-road prowess, the V8's fuel economy was a drawback, and the ride could be bouncy on uneven surfaces.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Its design provided ample passenger space, with enough room for a 6’4” driver to sit comfortably in both the front and rear seats. The Outback's low center of gravity and excellent visibility were standout features, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit featured a luxurious interior with quilted leather seats and a leather-wrapped interior. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, while the rear seats were comfortable but had limited legroom for taller adults. The Grand Cherokee provided 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 68.3 cubic feet. However, the optional rear-seat entertainment system reduced interior storage space, and the vehicle could benefit from more practical storage solutions.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering a visually appealing interface but suffering from lag and buried climate-control functions. The system's camera resolution was also lacking, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the potential for improvement was evident.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's Uconnect 4C with Nav system provided a nearly flawless user experience, with fast response times, intuitive controls, and features like navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system's voice recognition technology worked well, and the Summit trim's 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system delivered excellent sound quality. However, the Grand Cherokee's overall technology offerings were limited compared to newer models.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's safety features were a mixed bag. While the standard safety suite impressed, the DriverFocus system was problematic, frequently issuing false alerts. Subaru's EyeSight system, though standard, could be obstructed by environmental factors, leading to occasional deactivation.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's safety ratings were concerning, with poor performance in IIHS small-overlap frontal-impact tests. However, the Summit trim offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The ParkSense parking assistance system was useful, but the Grand Cherokee's safety ratings remained a potential drawback.