2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

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, they became more accepted over the years. The Cherokee's appearance varied significantly depending on the trim level, with the entry-level Latitude looking quite ordinary, while the 80th Anniversary Edition boasted a more refined look with its 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding. Jeep's knack for maximizing roof utility was evident in 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 Grand Cherokee, especially from the front.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander was anything but boring, standing out among midsize SUVs with its distinctive design. Its wide headlights, long hood, and assertive grille made a statement, while the character line along the side added a touch of sportiness reminiscent of the Supra. The rear taillights, though lacking a vertical element, resembled those of a Lexus. The Highlander managed to look longer and lower than its predecessor without sacrificing size. The introduction of the XSE trim added a sportier appearance, with aggressive styling and suspension tuning. The Limited trim, however, emphasized luxury with chrome accents and a well-crafted interior featuring tan leather seats and wood details. The Highlander excelled in comfort and convenience, making it a strong contender for families.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options, catering to different trim levels. The base Latitude and Latitude Plus featured a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower. The 3.2-liter V-6 engine, available on higher trims, delivered 271 horsepower, while the top-tier 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet 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. The Cherokee's off-road capabilities shone in the Trailhawk model, equipped with features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. While front-wheel drive was available, it was less common among buyers.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. While not a performance powerhouse, the Highlander provided smooth and predictable operation, making it suitable for family use. It compared favorably to competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride in terms of power, though it lagged behind the Ford Explorer ST. The Highlander's handling was typical of a three-row crossover, with a soft suspension prioritizing comfort. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, appealing to those seeking a bit of driving excitement.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee occupied a space 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. This was less than competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Ford Escape. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in that regard. The interior was straightforward and businesslike, with trim levels influencing the level of luxury. Higher trims like the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered more upscale features, such as suede seat inserts and Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space and functionality. It featured shelves ahead of the front seats for storage, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. Second-row passengers enjoyed ample legroom, with seats that could be adjusted for more space. The third row was suitable for adults only if the second row was adjusted. Cargo space was limited to 16 cubic feet behind the third row but expanded to 48.4 cubic feet with it folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows down. The Highlander's interior was well-designed, though rear-seat climate control vents were positioned on the ceiling, which some might find inconvenient.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee boasted an impressive infotainment system with the Uconnect interface, available in 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreen options. It offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, though wired, along with a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, adding convenience. The system was user-friendly, with easy access to climate controls and heated seat functions.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch option on the Limited trim and standard on the Platinum trim. While navigation was available, it struggled with points of interest compared to Google Maps. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard. The 12.3-inch screen was visually appealing, though some apps were limited in display size. The JBL audio system provided decent sound quality.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received "Good" scores in crashworthiness from the IIHS but did not earn a Top Safety Pick award. It received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. 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 Toyota Highlander came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, intersection support, road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. It received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.