2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, becoming more proportionate over time. While the short grille opening and swept-back headlights remained divisive, the Cherokee's overall appearance improved, especially with higher trim levels. The entry-level Latitude with 17-inch wheels and FWD looked quite basic, whereas the 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding offered a more refined look. Jeep's attention to roof design was evident with the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof, which covered the entire top surface. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded SUV market, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee from the front.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX carried over its familial design and styling attributes, featuring sharp design lines that made it look similar to the smaller Lexus UX and larger Lexus RX. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models were the focus, with the F Sport version offering a sportier appearance thanks to a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. The interior of the F Sport model featured exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior color scheme. The material fit and finish were excellent, with a familiar gauge cluster and a 4.2-inch multi-information display. However, the center stack design appeared outdated compared to newer models.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options depending on the trim level. The base Latitude and Latitude Plus came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower. The 3.2-liter V-6 engine, available on higher trims, delivered 271 hp, while the top-tier 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 270 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite these options, none of the engines provided outstanding acceleration, with the V6 and turbo-four engines achieving 0-60 mph times of around 7.2 and 7.4 seconds, respectively. All Cherokee models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, which had improved over time. The Cherokee Trailhawk model excelled in off-road capability, thanks to features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. However, the availability of FWD in the Cherokee aimed to keep prices competitive.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but not as smooth as newer multi-speed transmissions. The NX achieved a 0-60 mph time of around seven seconds, which was average for the segment. The F Sport model included Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically. FWD was standard, with AWD available on all trims. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle. Fuel economy for the NX was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The NX also offered an adaptive-suspension system for a smoother ride. The driving experience was smooth and comfortable, though the steering lacked feedback. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee filled 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 the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, making it one of the smallest in its class. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, which was competitive. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with higher trims offering more upscale materials like suede seat inserts and perforated Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an upscale interior with comfortable front seats and adequate legroom in the second row. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding configuration. The NX's cabin was quiet, with minimal road and wind noise. However, cargo space was limited, with only 17.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX offered a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats as options.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, available with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens. The system was user-friendly, with easy access to climate controls and heated seat functions. The Cherokee supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only via wired connections. It also offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, adding convenience in extreme weather conditions.

The 2021 Lexus NX had an 8-inch touchscreen standard, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included HomeLink and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the Lexus system was less user-friendly, relying on a touchpad. Other features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Premium Audio system was standard, with an optional Mark Levinson 14-speaker system. The NX was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote mobile app, offering various remote functions and a 10-year subscription to Lexus Enform Services Connect.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received top "Good" scores in all IIHS crashworthiness categories but did not earn a Top Safety Pick award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety 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 available only on higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including a rearview camera, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect was standard, offering various emergency and assistance services.