2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with opinions softening over time. While the short grille and swept-back headlights initially divided opinions, familiarity improved its perception. The Cherokee's appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch wheels and painted cladding. Its optional panoramic sunroof added a distinctive touch, and the Cherokee stood out in a crowded SUV market, resembling the larger Grand Cherokee from the front.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had transitioned from a rugged tool to a symbol of luxury. Starting at $92,000, it offered a wide range of personalization options, with some models reaching $250,000. The HSE Westminster edition, priced at $106,715, featured a classic design with hallmark cues like blacked-out pillars and clean lines. Inside, the Range Rover exuded luxury with its Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, though its infotainment system was less intuitive than newer models.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder produced 180 horsepower, while the 3.2-liter V-6 delivered 271 hp. The top-tier 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generated 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite these options, acceleration was modest, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 to 7.4 seconds. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the Trailhawk model excelled off-road with features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover provided various powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD with a two-speed transfer case. The Range Rover excelled off-road, though testing was limited to mild trails. Its adaptive air suspension offered a smooth ride, but the SUV's weight and height affected handling on winding roads. Fuel economy was rated at 20 mpg combined, with real-world results slightly lower.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, lagging behind competitors. Passenger volume was 102 cubic feet, competitive within its class. The interior was simple and businesslike, with trim levels affecting material quality, from basic rubberized plastic to upscale Nappa leather in higher trims.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access. Front seats were luxurious, but the second row lacked comfort and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for a small center-console bin. Cargo space was 25 cubic feet, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet, less than some compact SUVs. A suspension kneel function aided loading, and the rear-seat center section allowed for longer items.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee boasted an intuitive Uconnect infotainment system with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. Controls were user-friendly, with easy access to climate and seat functions. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while comprehensive, was not entirely intuitive and could be distracting while driving. The Range Rover included a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received "Good" crashworthiness scores from the IIHS but lacked a Top Safety Pick award. It earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring, with adaptive cruise control available on higher trims.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included several safety packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.