2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved over the years since its debut, and opinions on its design had softened. While the short grille and swept-back headlights initially divided opinions, they became more accepted over time. The Cherokee's appearance varied significantly depending on the trim level. The base Latitude with 17-inch wheels and FWD had a more generic look, while the 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding offered a more refined appearance. Jeep's design prowess was evident in the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof, which covered the entire roof surface, adding a distinctive touch. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded SUV market, bearing a resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee, especially from the front.

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The redesign refined the X3's formula, giving it the presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. Its exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured the brand's signature cold, mechanical styling. Although not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dashboard was more functional. The 2021 X3 offered various trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, each with distinct features. The M40i trim, for instance, boasted 19-inch alloy wheels, 14-way power-adjustable front seats, and an M Sport suspension, enhancing its sporty appeal.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options, each catering to different trim levels. The Latitude and Latitude Plus featured a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower. A step up was the 3.2-liter V-6, delivering 271 hp, while the top-tier engine was the 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder, generating 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite these options, the Cherokee's acceleration was modest, with the V6 achieving 0-60 mph in about 7.2 seconds and the turbo-four in 7.4 seconds. All models came with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which improved over time, offering better performance than many CVTs. The Cherokee Trailhawk excelled off-road, thanks to features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. However, the Cherokee was also available in FWD, appealing to budget-conscious buyers and rental fleets.

The 2021 BMW X3's sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured RWD, while the xDrive30i offered AWD. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 hp and had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt charger. For those seeking performance, the M40i trim boasted a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The X3 M performance model, with 473 hp, catered to speed enthusiasts needing family space.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee occupied a niche between the smaller Renegade and larger Grand Cherokee, competing with compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, it fell short in utility, offering only 26 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, lagging behind rivals like the Mazda CX-5 and Ford Escape. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in that aspect. Its interior was straightforward, with a clean design that focused on functionality rather than luxury. Trim levels influenced interior satisfaction, with the Latitude featuring basic materials, while the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered more upscale options like suede seat inserts and Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2021 BMW X3 excelled in cargo space, offering up to 62.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded and 28.7 cubic feet with them in use, making it one of the best in its class. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in the front and adult-friendly rear seats. The interior featured real buttons and dials alongside the touchscreen, enhancing usability for drivers and passengers alike.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee boasted an intuitive infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. The Uconnect system came with either a 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only via wired connections. The Cherokee also offered a 4G WiFi hotspot, Amazon Alexa integration, and remote start. The consistency of the Uconnect system across Stellantis brands was a plus for buyers familiar with it.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. It combined touch operation with an iDrive dial, catering to different user preferences. The X3 came standard with Apple CarPlay, while Android Auto was optional. Additional options included wireless device charging, a digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS but received "Good" scores in crashworthiness and a G+ for LATCH ease of use. However, its headlights received mixed ratings, with some trims rated "Acceptable" and others "Marginal." The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a head-up display.