2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, becoming more palatable over time. Initially, the short grille opening and swept-back headlights were points of contention, but after seven years, the Cherokee's proportions seemed more balanced. The exterior appearance varied significantly with trim levels. The entry-level Latitude with 17-inch wheels and FWD looked quite basic, while 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 in the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof, which covered the entire top surface. The Cherokee's distinct look ensured it stood out in a crowded SUV market, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee, especially from the front.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a more upscale, luxury-oriented design. The XC90, riding on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, had a poised stance and sleek profile, with a long roofline that managed to contain its large greenhouse without appearing bulky. Pronounced wheel arches and a snub nose added to its athletic look, while the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights paid homage to its Swedish roots. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambor cover on the center console, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it. The tailored wool blend upholstery offered a unique, easy-to-care-for alternative.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options, each catering to different trim levels. The base Latitude and Latitude Plus trims came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower. The mid-tier 3.2-liter V-6 engine significantly boosted output to 271 hp. The top-tier engine was the 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong contender despite being just 1 hp shy of the V-6. However, none of these engines provided exceptional acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 seconds for the V-6 and 7.4 seconds for the turbo-four. 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. While FWD was available, it was primarily to keep prices competitive.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains. The T5 models featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 models upgraded to a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine, delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 models combined a supercharged/turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, achieving a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. T5 models were available in FWD and AWD, while T6 and T8 models were AWD only. All XC90 models used an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency varied, with T5 FWD models achieving 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, and T8 models offering 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range. The extended range variant provided up to 36 miles of EV range. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

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, placing it at the bottom among compact SUVs. Passenger volume was about 102 cubic feet, making it competitive in that metric. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with trim levels significantly affecting satisfaction. The Latitude trim featured rubberized black plastic, while the Trailhawk offered suede seat inserts and contrasting stitching. The Latitude Lux trim added perforated Nappa leather upholstery for a more upscale appearance.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom and thigh support for adults. The XC90 provided 15.9 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Towing capacity ranged from 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on configuration. The XC90's interior was spacious and airy, with ample storage options and a standard laminated panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed admirably during a heat wave, making the XC90 a comfortable sanctuary in any weather.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Stellantis Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface and climate control. Available with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens, the system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired), a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was also available. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis vehicles, providing a familiar and reliable experience for Cherokee buyers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. However, it was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. The system worked better with Apple CarPlay, and the XC90 also supported Android Auto. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was positioned for easy driver access, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The $1,650 Advanced package added a head-up display, 360-degree surround view camera, and advanced air cleaner. The standard Harman Kardon Premium Sound system could be upgraded to a $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins system, offering exceptional surround sound. The XC90 included multiple USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle control.

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 child seat anchors. The headlights received mixed ratings, with upper trims rated "Acceptable" and others "Marginal." The NHTSA gave the Cherokee a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, slippery road alert, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, oncoming lane mitigation, and road-sign recognition. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways, enhancing safety and driver comfort.