2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Highlander underwent design enhancements that introduced sharper creases and a trapezoidal theme across various exterior elements. This included the rear bumper and the grille, with higher trims like the Limited and Platinum flaunting LED projector-beam headlights and large 20-inch wheels. The interior set a high bar in the midsize SUV category with luxurious textures, brown and beige tones across the dashboard and seats, and thoughtful silver accents enhancing the overall premium feel.

Conversely, the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee managed to retain a classic yet appealing design even after a decade since its last major redesign. Iconic Jeep elements like the 7-slot grille paired with sophisticated touches, such as ventilated hoods and sport bumpers, gave it a ruggedly polished look. The interior, however, did not consistently match the exterior's allure, especially in higher-priced models where the presence of hard plastics became more evident, overshadowing the premium materials used.

Under the hood, the 2020 Toyota Highlander featured a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, sharing its mechanics with the Lexus RX, resulting in a refined driving experience characteristic of luxury vehicles. Despite the soft suspension and loose steering, which led to a floaty ride at highway speeds, the Highlander offered a creamy ride, excellent for long road trips. Notably, it also maintained impressive fuel efficiency for its size, with the FWD model achieving up to 29 mpg highway.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a varied powertrain lineup including multiple V8 options. The standard V6 engine provided adequate power, but for those craving more muscle, the available V8s and the Trackhawk's supercharged V8 delivered exhilarating performance. However, driving dynamics on pavement were mixed, with the SUV's older architecture showing in its handling of rough surfaces. Yet, it notably maintained traditional SUV performance, valued by enthusiasts.

The Highlander excelled in functional design, offering three-row seating for up to eight passengers, with ample legroom and adjustable seating configurations that ensured easy access and comfort. Storage capacity was generous, with up to 84 cubic feet with the rows folded down. Additionally, its ergonomic design meant easier entry and exit without the need for stepping up or bending.

The Grand Cherokee, limited to five passengers, offered less interior space but prioritized comfort with heated and power-adjustable front seats and a friendly control layout. Cargo space extended to 68.3 cubic feet with rear seats down, providing ample room but falling short of the Highlander's capacity.

Toyota's infotainment system in the Highlander lagged in user interface design and camera resolution but compensated with standard tech features like Apple CarPlay and adaptive cruise control. The higher trims benefitted from a full-featured HUD and extensive safety aids, enhancing the driving experience.

Jeep's Uconnect system in the Grand Cherokee remained commendatory for its user-friendliness and swift responsiveness. The system integrated essential modern features like Apple CarPlay alongside unique off-roading tools in trim-specific models, emphasizing Jeep's balance of conventional and contemporary technology offerings.

Toyota equipped the 2020 Highlander with a comprehensive suite of safety features standard across all trims, resulting in a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS. This focus on safety was complemented by advanced options like blind-spot monitoring and rear emergency braking.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offered multiple safety packages, intensifying safety provisions across its range. However, its aging design reflected less favorably in crash tests, securing only a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and mixed results in IIHS testing.