2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic status with a design that had remained largely unchanged over the years. Its distinctive features, such as circular headlights, a seven-slat grille, and exposed bolts and hinges, made it instantly recognizable. The Wrangler's rugged appearance, reminiscent of a toy truck for adults, appealed to those seeking a unique and adventurous vehicle. Depending on the trim level, the Wrangler could be customized with options like painted or exposed fenders and different roof types, but its core design elements remained unmistakable. Inside, the Wrangler prioritized function over comfort, with an upright seating position, limited legroom, and manual seat adjustments. For enthusiasts, these characteristics added to its charm rather than detracting from it.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more understated, blending in with the competitive crossover market. While it shared similarities with other compact crossovers, the CR-V had subtle distinguishing features like its grille and chromed plastic accents. The CR-V offered a range of colors, though many were variations of gray, black, and white. Inside, the CR-V provided a modern and angular design, with options for wood panels and chrome accents in higher trims. While not a standout in terms of exterior styling, the CR-V excelled in providing a comfortable and practical interior for passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered a diverse powertrain lineup, including gas, diesel, mild-hybrid, and the powerful Hemi V8. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its three four-wheel-drive systems: Command-Trac, Select-Trac, and Rock-Trac, each offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The Rubicon 392, with its 6.4-liter V8 engine, delivered an impressive 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, transforming the Wrangler into an off-road powerhouse. This variant featured upgraded components like beefed-up frame-rails, a 2-inch lift, and a dual-mode performance exhaust, making it a formidable off-road performer.

In comparison, the 2021 Honda CR-V focused on delivering smooth and steady performance rather than high-speed thrills. All CR-V trims were equipped with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing adequate acceleration for daily driving. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) offered a seamless driving experience, though it lacked the engagement of traditional automatic transmissions. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup, featuring MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear suspension, contributed to its decent handling and ride quality. While not a standout in terms of performance, the CR-V provided a reliable and predictable driving experience.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of roof options, including the zipper-less Sunrider soft-top and the Freedom hardtop with removable panels. The Rubicon 392 featured the Sky one-touch power top, providing a convenient open-air experience. Inside, the Wrangler's cabin was functional, with limited storage options but practical features like drain plugs for easy cleaning. The Wrangler Unlimited provided 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, the presence of wheel-wells and roll-bars could limit the usability of this space for larger items.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized interior space and practicality, offering 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The CR-V's cargo area was accessible through various tailgate options, including a hands-free power tailgate on higher trims. While roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim, the CR-V's interior was designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers and their gear, making it a practical choice for families and travelers.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler's technology offerings varied by trim, with the base Sport featuring a basic 5-inch screen. Higher trims offered a 7-inch or 8.4-inch Uconnect screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Rubicon 392 included a color TFT screen in the instrument panel and an off-road camera for enhanced trail visibility. The Wrangler's infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive radio toggles on the steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V provided a more comprehensive technology package. While the base LX had a 5-inch screen, all other trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CR-V's audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant throughout the cabin, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger. The CR-V's technology offerings were well-suited for modern connectivity needs.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered optional modern driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. However, these features were not standard, and the Wrangler lacked lane-departure warning. A backup camera with dynamic guidelines was included, along with a live tire-pressure monitoring system for off-roading.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. The CR-V's Honda Sensing system included a suite of standard safety features, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring, which became standard on higher trims. Honda's commitment to safety made the CR-V a standout choice in its segment.