2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, becoming more palatable over time. While the short grille opening and swept-back headlights were initially polarizing, they seemed better proportioned after seven years. The exterior appearance varied significantly with 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 appeared much more refined. Jeep's knack for maximizing roof utility was evident with the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof, covering the entire top surface. The Cherokee's distinctive look ensured it stood out in a crowded parking lot, bearing a resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee from the front.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, favoring smooth, sleek lines over deeply-creased hoods and chiseled grilles. The base CX-5 Sport featured automatic LED headlights, 17-inch gray metallic wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and rain-sensing wipers. The Touring trim added rear privacy glass, leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and auto-leveling LED headlights. The new-for-2021 Touring Preferred SV Package further enhanced the Touring model with a Bose sound system, leather seats, a power liftgate, and more. The Carbon Edition combined Touring features with unique styling elements like Polymetal Gray paint and red leather seats. The top-tier Signature model boasted premium touches like Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produced 180 horsepower, while the 3.2-liter V-6 delivered a more robust 271 hp. The top-tier 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder engine generated 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong contender. Despite these options, none provided outstanding acceleration, with the V6 and turbo-four achieving 0-60 mph in about 7.2 and 7.4 seconds, respectively. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, which had improved over time. The Cherokee's off-road capabilities shone in the Trailhawk model, equipped with Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. However, the availability of FWD aimed to keep prices competitive, especially for rental fleets.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine choices. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, available on higher trims, delivered 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. FWD was standard, with AWD available. The most fuel-efficient version was the FWD non-turbo model, achieving 25 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. The turbo engine provided a spirited driving experience, especially in Sport mode, though the stiff suspension could be a drawback. The CX-5's AWD system ensured stability, but the seats could use better bolstering for spirited driving.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee occupied a space between the smaller Renegade and the larger Grand Cherokee, competing with compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, it fell short in utility, offering just 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded. This was less than competitors like the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, and Kia Sportage. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in that metric. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with trim levels significantly affecting satisfaction. The Latitude featured basic materials, while the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered more upscale touches like suede seat inserts and Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's design catered to family needs with comfort and style. The seating position and distance to the center stack were typical for its size, with good headroom but limited legroom for rear passengers. The CX-5 had two full LATCH connections and a tether connector for child seats, though they were not the easiest to use. Climate controls were straightforward and effective. The larger shifter took up passenger space, and the infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Cargo space was below average, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. A power liftgate was available.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. Available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired), a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was also available. The system's consistency across Stellantis brands was a plus for Cherokee buyers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the screen size was impressive, the operating system was less so, with a design that felt outdated and controls that were not intuitive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for the system's shortcomings. However, the lack of quick tuning knobs and the screen's positioning made it less user-friendly.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee did not earn a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS but received top "Good" scores in crashworthiness and a G+ score for LATCH ease of use. The NHTSA gave 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 only available on higher trims.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a long list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and more. Optional features included a head-up display, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda's warranty included a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.