2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs 2022 Cadillac XT5

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
$51,225MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Cadillac XT5
2022 Cadillac XT5
$43,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
$51,225MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Cadillac XT5
$43,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
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CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is 6.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Cadillac XT5 scores 6.7 out of 10. Given these identical ratings, the final recommendation depends on your specific needs. If you seek a rugged, off-road capable vehicle with a unique hybrid powertrain, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the better choice. However, if you prioritize luxury, comfort, and advanced safety features, the Cadillac XT5 is the more suitable option.

Overview

MSRP

$51,225

MSRP

$43,995

Average price

$35,725

Average price

$32,503

Listings

1185

Listings

320
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Fuel-efficient
  • Powerful engine
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Unimpressive electric range
  • Noisy
  • Poor handling
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Impressive stereo
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor ergonomic design
  • Poor value for money

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Reviews Summary

In the history of automobiles, perhaps none captures the go-anywhere and do-anything American spirit quite like the Jeep Wrangler (and its CJ and Willys ancestors). Now, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler lineup offers two new ways to conquer whatever obstacles lay in your path. The first is the V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392. The second is the subject of this review, the clean, green, plug-in hybrid electric machine called the Wrangler 4xe.

2022 Cadillac XT5 Reviews Summary

Cadillac spent the early 2000s methodically developing sports sedans in pursuit of BMW, but while it focused on that market trends turned toward SUVs. So for the past few years, Cadillac has tried to execute a product planning sidestep with more SUVs and updated versions of existing models.

The Cadillac XT5 (short for Crossover Touring 5) was introduced for the 2017 model year as the replacement for the SRX crossover SUV. It now sits between the XT4 and XT6 in Cadillac’s SUV lineup, and is positioned against small luxury crossovers like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infiniti QX50, Lexus NX, Lincoln Corsair, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

Most of those models have benefitted from recent redesigns, while the XT5 carries over to the 2022 model year with minimal changes. The lineup still consists of Luxury base model, Premium Luxury, and Sport trim levels. For 2022, the XT5 Sport gets front Brembo brakes, red front and rear brake calipers, and new 20-inch 12-spoke wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish. All trim levels also get color-keyed floor mats and new Latte Metallic and Rosewood Metallic extra-cost paint colors.

There are no mechanical changes to report, so the XT5 is still offer with turbocharged four-cylinder and naturally-aspirated V6 engines, with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test car was a Premium Luxury model with the V6, AWD, and the optional Platinum Package.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 375 hp I4 Hybrid

Engine

2.0L 235 hp I4

Drive Train

4X4

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

375 hp @ 5250 rpm

Horsepower

235 hp @ 5000 rpm

EV Battery Capacity

17.3 kWh

EV Battery Capacity

MPG City

20

MPG City

22

MPG Highway

20

MPG Highway

29

Battery Charge Time (240V)

2.4 hours

Battery Charge Time (240V)

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
$51,225MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Cadillac XT5
2022 Cadillac XT5
$43,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
$51,225MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Cadillac XT5
$43,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is 6.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Cadillac XT5 scores 6.7 out of 10. Given these identical ratings, the final recommendation depends on your specific needs. If you seek a rugged, off-road capable vehicle with a unique hybrid powertrain, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the better choice. However, if you prioritize luxury, comfort, and advanced safety features, the Cadillac XT5 is the more suitable option.

Overview
MSRP
$51,225
$43,995
Average price
$35,725
$32,503
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.9
4.6
Expert reviews

6.7 out of 10

Read full review

6.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Fuel-efficient
  • Powerful engine
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Unimpressive electric range
  • Noisy
  • Poor handling
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Impressive stereo
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor ergonomic design
  • Poor value for money
Summary
In the history of automobiles, perhaps none captures the go-anywhere and do-anything American spirit quite like the Jeep Wrangler (and its CJ and Willys ancestors). Now, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler lineup offers two new ways to conquer whatever obstacles lay in your path. The first is the V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392. The second is the subject of this review, the clean, green, plug-in hybrid electric machine called the Wrangler 4xe.

Cadillac spent the early 2000s methodically developing sports sedans in pursuit of BMW, but while it focused on that market trends turned toward SUVs. So for the past few years, Cadillac has tried to execute a product planning sidestep with more SUVs and updated versions of existing models.

The Cadillac XT5 (short for Crossover Touring 5) was introduced for the 2017 model year as the replacement for the SRX crossover SUV. It now sits between the XT4 and XT6 in Cadillac’s SUV lineup, and is positioned against small luxury crossovers like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infiniti QX50, Lexus NX, Lincoln Corsair, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

Most of those models have benefitted from recent redesigns, while the XT5 carries over to the 2022 model year with minimal changes. The lineup still consists of Luxury base model, Premium Luxury, and Sport trim levels. For 2022, the XT5 Sport gets front Brembo brakes, red front and rear brake calipers, and new 20-inch 12-spoke wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish. All trim levels also get color-keyed floor mats and new Latte Metallic and Rosewood Metallic extra-cost paint colors.

There are no mechanical changes to report, so the XT5 is still offer with turbocharged four-cylinder and naturally-aspirated V6 engines, with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test car was a Premium Luxury model with the V6, AWD, and the optional Platinum Package.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 375 hp I4 Hybrid
2.0L 235 hp I4
Drive Train
4X4
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
375 hp @ 5250 rpm
235 hp @ 5000 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
17.3 kWh
MPG City
20
22
MPG Highway
20
29
Battery Charge Time (240V)
2.4 hours
Look and feel
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
9/10
2022 Cadillac XT5
6/10

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe made a statement with its distinctive look and sound. Aside from a "4xe" badge and sky blue accents, it closely resembled a regular Wrangler, with the only notable difference being the power port at the base of the windshield. When running on battery power alone, the Wrangler 4xe was nearly silent, save for the whine of its pedestrian notification system, which drew attention as it navigated through Yosemite National Park. The interior maintained the classic Wrangler's rugged simplicity, with added soft-touch materials and blue stitching to signify its PHEV status. The controls were laid out in a functional manner, and the Rubicon trim included features like front and rear locking differentials and a sway bar disconnect button.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac XT5 featured a blend of Cadillac's trademark design cues with a compact footprint and tall profile. The Premium Luxury and Sport models had distinct exterior styling, with the former showcasing bright chrome and the latter featuring darker trim and a mesh grille. The XT5's interior, especially with the optional Platinum Package, felt luxurious with semi-aniline leather upholstery and a microfiber sueded headliner. However, the design lacked a strong theme, unlike its competitors. The seats were comfortable but not exceptional, and the cargo space was competitive, offering 30 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 63 cubic feet with them folded.

Performance
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
8/10
2022 Cadillac XT5
9/10

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 17-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. This setup provided an estimated 21 miles of pure electric driving and a total driving range of 370 miles. The Wrangler 4xe offered three powertrain modes: Hybrid, Electric, and e-Save. In Hybrid mode, it delivered a total of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in six seconds. Electric mode allowed for gas-free driving, while e-Save preserved battery power for specific situations. During a road trip to Yosemite, the Wrangler 4xe averaged 19.1 mpg over 757 miles, with 120.9 of those miles on electricity.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered two engine options: a base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6-equipped Premium Luxury model felt quick and provided smooth, linear power delivery. The adaptive dampers in the Platinum Package offered a comfortable ride, cushioning bumps while maintaining excellent body control. The steering was well-suited for a luxury vehicle, providing a nimble feel without being overly sensitive. The cabin was impressively quiet, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

Form and function
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
4/10
2022 Cadillac XT5
7/10

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe's high door sills and lack of side steps made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter passengers. However, once inside, the Wrangler offered a comfortable driving position with clear visibility. The interior storage was limited, with small bins and a glovebox. Rear-seat space was adequate, with air conditioning vents, USB ports, and a 115-volt power outlet. Cargo space measured 27.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.4 cubic feet with them folded, though the design of the tailgate and rear window could make loading difficult.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 provided more front headroom than the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, though it trailed in rear headroom. It offered more legroom in both rows compared to its German rivals. The seats were comfortable but could have used more padding, especially in the rear. The XT5 boasted 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 63 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing the Q5, X3, and GLC. A hands-free power liftgate was available, and the front included a small cubbyhole below the touchscreen for additional storage.

Technology
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
7/10
2022 Cadillac XT5
6/10

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe featured an 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and SiriusXM Guardian connected services. A WiFi connection was available, and the Alpine sound system provided good audio quality, though it struggled against wind noise. The system was intuitive but showed signs of aging in terms of load time and responsiveness. The Trip Summary data panel and charging indicator lights were useful for monitoring the PHEV system.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The optional Technology Package added an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. While the touchscreen was easy to navigate, the array of secondary controls, including a rotary controller and capacitive touchpads, were not user-friendly. The optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system delivered excellent sound quality, enhanced by the XT5's quiet interior.

Safety
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
4/10
2022 Cadillac XT5
7/10

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offered advanced driving assistance systems in the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group packages. These included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Wrangler received a Marginal rating for its LED headlights and small-overlap frontal-impact protection for the driver. The NHTSA gave it a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover rating.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear park assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Cost Effectiveness
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
8/10
2022 Cadillac XT5
5/10
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