2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Volvo XC90 showcased a pinnacle of modern Volvo design, proving that a large SUV could be as aesthetically pleasing as a sleek sedan. The R-Design trim featured blacked-out, honeycomb grille treatments, black window surrounds, mirrors, and a more aggressive chin spoiler, all complemented by bright 22-inch rims. The "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and tall, thin, curving LED taillights were distinctive Volvo elements. The Thunder Grey Metallic paint with a blue hue contrasted beautifully with the beige-leather and aluminum interior, emphasizing Volvo's commitment to subtlety and craftsmanship.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with a more proportionate look despite its short grille and swept-back headlights. The exterior appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof added a unique touch, and its resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee, especially from the front, helped it stand out in a crowded SUV market.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which felt insufficient for such a heavy vehicle. The T6 model, with a supercharger added to the turbocharger, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, providing better performance. The Polestar tune further boosted these numbers to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft. However, the XC90's acceleration was not linear, and the engine noise was unrefined. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the T6 AWD rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined. The T8 plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque but had limited electric range and did not significantly improve fuel economy.

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 provided similar acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 and 7.4 seconds, respectively. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which had improved over time. The Cherokee's off-road capabilities were notable, especially in the Trailhawk model, which featured Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. However, the availability of front-wheel drive in lower trims aimed at keeping prices competitive.

The 2020 Volvo XC90's interior was well-organized, with the Sensus infotainment system initializing quickly and offering easy access to various functions. The seven-seat configuration was ideal for families, with an integrated booster cushion available for the second row. The six-seat option provided generous legroom and comfort in the first and second rows, though the third row was tight. Cargo space was ample, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available. The cabin featured high-quality materials and thoughtful details, such as the Swedish flag tag and twist-action ignition knob.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, which was less than competitors. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in its class. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with higher trims offering more upscale materials like suede seat inserts and perforated Nappa leather. The cabin design focused on functionality rather than luxury or technology.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came standard with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The four-zone climate control and Bowers & Wilkins stereo system were highlights, with the latter offering 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though onboard apps were slow to load. The digital instrument panel was less customizable compared to competitors.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was also available. The climate controls were straightforward, with easy-to-use buttons and knobs. The Uconnect system was praised for its reliability and user-friendly interface.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though the latter's headlight test lowered its rating to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, driver-attention monitor, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength steels and advanced airbag systems.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee earned "Good" scores in most IIHS crashworthiness categories but did not receive a Top Safety Pick award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall 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 higher trims.