2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 represented a significant step forward in Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a leader in luxury vehicles. With 40 updates introduced in the previous model year, the XT5 showcased a refined exterior with a more distinct front end and trim differentiation. The SUV's design featured standard LED lights and 20-inch wheels, contributing to its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the XT5 offered a more upscale interior than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, with cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents, especially in the Premium Luxury trim. The cabin's horizontal design lines and straightforward materials provided a sense of elegance, though it lacked some of the luxury touches found in other high-end vehicles.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved over the years, becoming more proportionate and appealing. The exterior design varied significantly depending on the trim level, with higher trims like the 80th Anniversary Edition featuring 19-inch wheels and painted lower body cladding for a more upscale look. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof added a unique touch, covering the entire roof surface. While the Cherokee's design might not have been universally praised, it stood out in a crowded field of crossover SUVs, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee from the front.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice of two engines across its Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims. The base engine was a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Premium Luxury trim could be upgraded to a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque, which came standard on the Sport trim. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which was smooth when upshifting but less refined when downshifting. The XT5's throttle response was immediate with the V6, though it could benefit from additional low-end torque. Fuel economy for the AWD V6 model was impressive, achieving about 25 mpg during testing, surpassing the EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options, starting with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower for the Latitude and Latitude Plus trims. The 3.2-liter V6 engine increased output to 271 horsepower, while the top-tier 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite these options, none of the engines provided outstanding acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 to 7.4 seconds. 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 for enhanced performance on challenging terrains.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults across two rows, though it technically accommodated five with a three-seat bench in the second row. While legroom was adequate, headroom in the back was limited for taller passengers. The front seats, despite their appearance, were not as comfortable on long trips due to a hard bottom cushion. The XT5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors but featured a deep rear cargo area. However, wheel bump-outs reduced the width of the space. The SUV's cargo-management system allowed for secure storage, and a hands-free programmable height liftgate was available. Small-item storage was limited, with no ideal spot for a smartphone and small map pockets.

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, placing it at the lower end of the compact SUV class. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in that regard. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with variations depending on the trim level. The Latitude trim featured rubberized black plastic, while the Trailhawk offered suede seat inserts and contrasting stitching. The Latitude Lux trim boasted perforated Nappa leather upholstery for a more upscale appearance.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system and center stack, contributing to its elegant design. The climate control system was housed in Piano Black plastic with haptic feedback, and a chrome toggle switch adjusted the temperature. The XT5 offered a heated steering wheel, heated outboard rear seats, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. The standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen was surrounded by Piano Black, housing various functionalities. A rotary controller on the center console aided infotainment system navigation. The XT5 came with one-touch phone pairing, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and USB ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system available. A rear camera mirror and head-up display were also offered.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. Available with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens, the system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wirelessly. The Cherokee offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, adding convenience in various climates. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis brands, providing a familiar experience for users.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-change alert with side blind-zone alert. Not all features were available on all trims. The XT5 also featured Night Vision technology, enhancing nighttime drivability by detecting large wildlife and hazards. General Motors' Teen Driver software was standard, allowing parents to monitor and limit certain vehicle features.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received "Good" scores in crashworthiness categories from the IIHS but did not earn a Top Safety Pick award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating. The Cherokee offered standard safety features like lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go was available on higher trims.