2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its rugged origins, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Once a utilitarian vehicle, it now boasted features like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats wrapped in premium leather, catering to a more upscale clientele. The Range Rover's design, despite nearing a decade old, remained timeless with its clean lines and hallmark design cues. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with its high-contrast Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although the infotainment system was not as advanced as newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler maintained its rugged, adventurous spirit, offering both two-door and four-door models with a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, and plug-in hybrid options. The Wrangler High Tide special edition, based on the Sport S trim, featured a raised suspension, LED lighting, and a unique Sunrider Fliptop. Despite its basic interior, the Wrangler provided a unique driving experience, immersing drivers in the elements and offering a sense of freedom and adventure. The Wrangler's design and features were tailored for off-road enthusiasts, with a focus on capability and durability.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrains, including a turbodiesel V6 and a supercharged 5.0-liter V8. The HSE Westminster special edition featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The Range Rover's 4WD system, with a two-speed transfer case and Terrain Response 2 traction control, ensured its off-road prowess. The SUV provided a smooth and quiet ride, with an adaptive air suspension that filtered road harshness. However, its steering was slow and syrupy, and 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 the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system enhanced its performance in slippery conditions. The Wrangler's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, but the test vehicle averaged 16.8 mpg due to the Xtreme Recon Package modifications. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a rough-and-tumble feel, loud cabin noise, and a need for frequent fuel stops. Despite its quirks, the Wrangler offered an immersive and adventurous driving experience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier entry and exit. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments and a small refrigerated center-console bin. The cargo area offered 25 cubic feet of space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, but the driving position required acclimation. Visibility was mixed, with some areas requiring adjustments to see clearly. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Storage options were limited, with netting on the door panels and small compartments. The cargo area offered 31.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, requiring setup and practice to use effectively. The Range Rover also offered a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for additional convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, had a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a larger touchscreen, satellite radio, and a premium sound system. The test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system, among other features.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and other safety features. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, which worked well but had some slow response issues.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving.