2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with opinions softening over time. Initially, the short grille and swept-back headlights were contentious, but after seven years, the Cherokee appeared more proportionate. Its exterior varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof was a standout feature, and its resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee helped it stand out in a crowded SUV market.

The 2022 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, represented a shift from Buick's traditionally conservative styling. Over the years, Buick transitioned from sedans to a full SUV lineup, reflecting broader market trends. The Enclave, a three-row crossover, was pivotal in revitalizing the brand. The 2022 model received a mid-cycle refresh with new exterior styling, including a unique grille and wheel designs for the Avenir trim. Inside, the Enclave boasted upgraded materials, a restyled center console, and luxurious features like climate-controlled seats, making it a comfortable and upscale choice.

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 seconds for the V6. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, praised for its fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk model excelled off-road, equipped with Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control, though front-wheel drive was available for budget-conscious buyers.

The 2022 Buick Enclave kept things simple with a single 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Enclave's ride was smooth and quiet, enhanced by the Avenir Technology package's premium suspension. Despite its size, the Enclave offered responsive acceleration and a pleasant engine sound. While not designed for off-roading, its AWD and 7.5 inches of ground clearance provided confidence in light off-road conditions.

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 seats folded, falling short compared to rivals. Passenger volume was 102 cubic feet, competitive within its class. The interior was straightforward, with trim levels influencing material quality, from basic rubberized plastic in the Latitude to upscale Nappa leather in the Latitude Lux.

The 2022 Buick Enclave excelled in interior space, accommodating six adults comfortably across three rows. The second-row captain's chairs facilitated easy access to the third row. The restyled center console featured push-button transmission gears, though concerns about spills affecting electronics were noted. Cargo space was generous, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.4 cubic feet with seats folded. Power-folding third-row seats added convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system, available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only wired. A 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration were included, with remote start as an optional feature.

The 2022 Buick Enclave offered an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium and Avenir trims added navigation and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system supported pairing two smartphones simultaneously and included a WiFi hotspot. Standard safety tech included a following-distance indicator and Teen Driver technology, with advanced features like adaptive cruise control available on higher trims.

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

The 2022 Buick Enclave made significant strides in safety, with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard across all trims. This included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and more. The Enclave received a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests, with an "Acceptable" score in the updated side-impact test.