2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, despite its age, maintained a timeless design that appealed to a diverse range of buyers. Its classic Jeep styling, including the iconic 7-slot grille and trapezoidal fenders, gave it a versatile appearance suitable for both rugged trails and upscale venues. The Grand Cherokee's pricing ranged from $32,150 to $87,400, with the Limited X model tested at $53,275. This model featured a striking Slate Blue Pearl paint, sport-themed design elements, and 20-inch aluminum wheels, offering a mildly customized look. However, the interior materials, especially in models priced over $50,000, were criticized for their excessive use of hard plastics, detracting from the overall luxury feel.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX models, featured sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look. Built on the older Toyota RAV4 platform, it lagged behind in engineering compared to newer models. The F Sport Black Line variant tested showcased a bold Grecian Water paint and dark-finish wheels, enhancing its sporty appearance. Inside, the NX Hybrid's design, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and minimal wood trim. The Black Line package added sporty touches like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee came with a standard 295-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering satisfying acceleration and an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined. However, the test vehicle achieved only 19.4 mpg. For those seeking more power, three V8 options were available, including a 707-hp supercharged engine in the Trackhawk model. The Grand Cherokee offered various 4WD systems, with the Limited X featuring Quadra-Trac II 4WD. Despite its off-road prowess, the SUV's on-road dynamics were mixed, with average steering and brakes and a ride that could transmit road imperfections.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower and standard AWD. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling without sacrificing comfort, but the steering felt numb. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration. The NX Hybrid's driving experience was less refined compared to newer models based on the TNGA platform.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered seating for five and cargo space of 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with them folded. Front seats were heated and power-adjustable, but lacked ventilation. Rear passengers enjoyed adequate comfort and amenities like air vents and USB ports. Interior storage was decent, with thoughtful touches like grocery bag hooks.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. Front seats provided excellent support, with 10-way power adjustment and available heated and ventilated options. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, but large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited to 16.8 cubic feet with seats up and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. A power-folding second row and liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration. While user-friendly, the system's responsiveness could be affected by the vehicle's ride. The Limited X trim included a 9-speaker Alpine sound system, with an optional 19-speaker Harman Kardon system available. Unique to Jeep, the Off-Road Pages app provided valuable off-roading data.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, the system felt outdated. The base audio system was underwhelming, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered three ADAS packages, with features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were unimpressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and poor IIHS ratings for certain tests.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.