2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Genesis GV70

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, the design appeared more balanced after several years. The Cherokee's exterior 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. Jeep's knack for maximizing roof utility was evident with the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof. Despite its crowded segment, the Cherokee stood out, resembling the larger Grand Cherokee from the front.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a unique appearance, borrowing elements from other Genesis models but maintaining its distinctiveness. It featured quad LED headlights and a large grille, combined with a sloping roofline and ribbed detailing for a muscular profile. The Sport Prestige model added character with unique styling, including 21-inch wheels and dark chrome trim. Inside, the GV70 had an elliptical theme inspired by an airplane wing, with a minimalistic design and a high-tech feel. The interior offered various color options and luxurious materials, though base models had leatherette seats.

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, praised for its fuel efficiency. The Trailhawk model excelled off-road, equipped with Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in FWD, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with two powerful engines: a 2.5-liter turbo-four with 300 hp and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The GV70 included a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing its sporty nature. However, the chassis felt heavy, lacking the sharpness of rivals like the BMW X3. The GV70 excelled on highways but had a firm ride with 21-inch wheels. The Sport+ mode enhanced performance but seemed mismatched with the vehicle's overall character.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee occupied a niche between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee. It offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, trailing competitors. Passenger volume was 102 cubic feet, competitive within its class. The interior was straightforward, with trim levels influencing material quality. The Latitude featured basic materials, while the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered more upscale finishes.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 provided mid-pack interior space. It matched competitors in headroom but didn't lead in any measurements. Cargo space was 28.9 cubic feet with seats up and 56.9 cubic feet folded. The interior design compromised storage, with limited space in the center console and door pockets. The Sport Prestige model had heavily bolstered seats with advanced features like heating, ventilation, and massage, though some controls were less intuitive.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. It offered 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The system included a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system had a tile-based layout and a glass rotary controller. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 included a digital-key feature and a fingerprint scanner for starting the car. Advanced safety features like radar-based rear-seat monitors and remote camera activation were part of Genesis Connected Services.

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

The 2022 Genesis GV70 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came standard with numerous safety features, including lane-keep assist and forward-collision warning. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The system performed well but struggled with sharp curves.