2021 Toyota Sequoia vs 2020 Jeep Wrangler

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler was a vehicle that stood out on the road with its iconic design. It featured circular headlights, a seven-slat grille, and a boxy style that was unmistakably Jeep. The Wrangler's industrial look was further enhanced by exposed hinges and bolts, and its removable top added to its rugged persona. Inside, the Wrangler embraced a retro aesthetic with circular climate vents and gauges, making the most of its ergonomic limitations. The trims ranged from the basic Sport with manual windows to the upscale Sahara and the off-road king, Rubicon, each offering varying levels of comfort and capability.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sequoia, despite its age, maintained a commanding presence with its large silhouette. The Sequoia's design updates in 2018, including a facelift with new headlights and grille, aimed to keep it modern. Inside, the Sequoia's cabin was spacious, though its design felt dated with a massive center dash and a small 7-inch touchscreen. The Sequoia offered a range of trims from the entry-level SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro and the luxurious Platinum, each providing a mix of comfort and utility. The new Nightshade Special Edition added a touch of style with black accents and unique features.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler offered a variety of engine options, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. A turbocharged 4-cylinder engine was also available, delivering 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The standout was the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel, generating 260 hp and an impressive 442 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent low-speed performance and highway overtaking capabilities. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was unmatched, with features like locking differentials and a disconnecting sway bar, though it was a rough ride on highways. Fuel economy for the diesel was 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined, offering a marked improvement over the gas engines.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came standard with a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided strong acceleration, even for a vehicle weighing up to 6,000 pounds. The Sequoia's driving dynamics were reminiscent of a truck, with a soft suspension and powerful brakes. It could tow up to 7,400 pounds, though it lagged behind competitors like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe in towing capacity. The Sequoia's fuel economy was hindered by its older transmission, but its V8 power was a highlight for those seeking a traditional SUV experience.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, with its four-door configuration, was a popular choice for those seeking versatility. Its removable doors, foldable windshield, and droppable roof offered a unique open-air experience. The Wrangler's cargo space was limited to 72 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, less than many less-capable SUVs. However, its off-road capabilities and customizable features, like the Sky One-Touch roof, made it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia boasted a spacious interior, with nearly 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 120 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Its power-retractable rear window was a convenient feature for quick access to the cargo area. While the front-row space could have been better utilized, the Sequoia offered ample storage with deep door pockets and a large center console. Despite its dated design, the Sequoia's interior was functional and provided plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler's technology varied by trim, with the Sport and Sport S featuring a basic 5-inch touchscreen. The Rubicon and Sahara offered a 7-inch touchscreen with Uconnect, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. An optional 8.4-inch Uconnect system added navigation, HD Radio, and a premium audio system, enhancing the Wrangler's tech offerings.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a WiFi hotspot. Our test model had a larger 9-inch screen, though it felt small on the large dash. The Sequoia's infotainment system was user-friendly, with simple menus and large hard buttons, providing a straightforward tech experience despite its older design.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler included standard safety features like airbags, electronic roll mitigation, and a backup camera. Optional safety packages added rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing the Wrangler's safety profile.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Despite its age, the Sequoia provided a comprehensive set of safety features, though it lacked more advanced technologies like lane-keeping assist.