2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its utilitarian roots, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Initially designed as a rugged vehicle, it had become a status symbol, offering a range of high-end features such as heated, ventilated, and massaging seats wrapped in premium leather. The Range Rover's design, despite nearing a decade old, remained timeless with its sleek lines and hallmark design cues. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with its high-contrast, mid-century modern ambiance, although the infotainment system was not as advanced as newer models.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a fresh addition to the lineup, offering a new seven-passenger model with a third-row seat. Its design was instantly recognizable as a Jeep, with signature styling elements that made it appealing across all trim levels. The Grand Cherokee L was available in various trims, with the Summit trim offering a luxurious experience. The interior was a significant improvement over previous models, featuring high-quality materials and advanced technology, although some interior fittings did not meet the expectations set by its price.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring its off-road capabilities. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, although the vehicle's weight and tall center of gravity affected its handling on winding roads. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, but real-world testing showed an average of 18.5 mpg.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive or three different four-wheel-drive systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine was available, increasing power and towing capacity but reducing fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee L's Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension and various driving modes enhanced its off-road capabilities. However, the V6 engine was loud when revved, and the vehicle averaged 17.8 mpg during testing, below the EPA's estimate.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers still found entry challenging. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, but the second row lacked support and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with a small refrigerated center console and minimal luggage volume. The cargo area offered 25 cubic feet of space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provided comfort with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, along with a four-zone climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs offered ample legroom and comfort, and the third row was surprisingly accommodating. Cargo space behind the third row measured 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 84.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Grand Cherokee L also featured practical storage solutions for passengers in all rows.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's technology included a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, requiring users to familiarize themselves with its features. The Range Rover also offered a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response times and an improved user experience. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a natural voice-recognition system. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the Grand Cherokee L offered additional technology features such as a digital instrumentation panel and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came equipped with essential safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added advanced driver aids such as adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included several of these features, although the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. While effective, the system felt artificial in its steering corrections. The Grand Cherokee L also featured Intersection Collision Assist and a comprehensive suite of driver aids. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review, but improvements over the previous model were expected.