2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Subaru Forester

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic styling, characterized by circular headlights, a seven-slat grille, exposed bolts and hinges, and protruding bumpers and fenders. Depending on the trim level, the Wrangler could take on different looks with options like painted or exposed fenders, soft top or hardtop, but it always maintained its unmistakable identity. Inside, the Wrangler was not built for comfort; it had an upright seating position, limited legroom, and seats adjusted with awkward ripcords. However, for the right type of driver, these quirks added to its charm.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester emphasized functionality and practicality. The Forester Wilderness model, in particular, featured a rugged look with a suspension lift, higher ride height, and massive protective cladding. Inside, the Forester focused on function over form, with a combination of hard plastic and soft surfaces that exuded quality construction. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, and the overall interior design was intuitive, even if it felt somewhat dated.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered a diverse powertrain lineup, including gas, diesel, mild-hybrid, and a Hemi V8. The standard 3.6-liter V6 produced 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, available with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Other options included a mild-hybrid eTorque variant, a 270-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Rubicon 392, with its 6.4-liter V8 engine, delivered a whopping 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, turning the Wrangler into an off-road supercar. The Wrangler also featured three 4WD systems: Command-Trac, Select-Trac, and Rock-Trac, each catering to different off-roading needs.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All Foresters came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Wilderness model featured a CVT design that provided a 25% increase in initial torque supply, doubling the towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg combined by the EPA, and during testing, it averaged 25.9 mpg. The Forester's driving dynamics were pleasing, though it lacked the outright acceleration of a turbocharged engine. The dual-function X-Mode system and re-tuned suspension improved its off-road capabilities, making it a compelling choice for those seeking adventure.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered various top options, including the zipper-less Sunrider soft-top, premium black cloth soft top, and the Freedom top, a three-piece hardtop with removable panels. The Rubicon 392 featured the Sky one-touch power top, a power-retractable canvas panel that provided a convenient open-air experience. The Wrangler's cabin was all about function, with a small center console bin, glovebox, and in-door cargo nets. It provided 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality, with easy entry and exit thanks to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness model featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery, all-weather floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 220 pounds and a static load of 800 pounds, suitable for a three-person roof tent. The Forester offered 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space without the panoramic sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it. With the rear seats folded, it provided up to 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Sport came with a basic 5-inch screen, while higher trims offered a 7-inch or 8.4-inch Uconnect screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Rubicon 392 featured a color TFT screen in the instrument panel and an off-road camera nestled between the front grille slats, providing a clear view of the trail ahead.

The 2022 Subaru Forester included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the base trim. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen, navigation system, and Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness model included a 180-degree forward-view camera, and the PIN Code Access feature allowed for keyless entry after outdoor activities.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered optional modern driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring. However, lane-departure warning was not available. The Wrangler also featured a live tire-pressure monitoring system, useful for off-roading.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system with improved camera-based technology and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester also offered a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. The Touring trim featured DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring drowsiness and distraction. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.