2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with opinions softening over time. While the short grille and swept-back headlights initially divided opinions, the design matured, appearing more proportionate. The exterior's appeal varied with trim levels; the entry-level Latitude with 17-inch wheels and FWD looked ordinary, while the 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch wheels and painted cladding offered a more refined appearance. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof added a distinctive touch, and its resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee helped it stand out in a crowded SUV market.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior updates, aligning with Nissan's new design language. Its bold front featured a "double V-motion" grille, and the SR trim boasted LED headlights and fog lights. The rear design, reminiscent of the Nissan Leaf, included a new bumper and LED taillights. The Kicks offered a variety of paint options, including two-tone combinations, enhancing its stylish appeal. The SR trim added sporty elements like a rear spoiler and dark chrome accents, while the interior featured higher-quality materials and customizable options, making it a standout in the subcompact class.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine choices. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder produced 180 horsepower, while the 3.2-liter V-6 delivered 271 hp. The top-tier 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provided 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite these options, acceleration was modest, with the V6 achieving 0-60 mph in about 7.2 seconds. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, praised for its efficiency. The Trailhawk model excelled off-road, equipped with Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. FWD was available, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came with a single powertrain: a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and FWD. While not powerful, the Kicks offered a good power-to-weight ratio, making it nimble in urban settings. Its handling was aided by electric power-assisted steering and a front independent strut suspension. The Kicks excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The SR trim included advanced features like an integrated dynamic-control module and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up and 55 cubic feet with seats folded, lagging behind competitors. It provided 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, competitive in its class. The interior was straightforward, with trim levels influencing material quality. The Latitude featured basic materials, while the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered upscale options like suede and Nappa leather.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks maximized its compact size with accessible controls and ample small-item storage. It featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks boasted best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited. The rear offered adequate space for adults. A tonneau cover provided hidden storage, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The system was user-friendly, with easy access to climate controls and remote start availability.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The SR Premium Package offered a Bose Personal Plus sound system with headrest speakers. A surround-view monitor and WiFi hotspot were available, enhancing convenience and connectivity.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received "Good" IIHS crashworthiness scores but lacked a Top Safety Pick award. It earned a four-star NHTSA rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was limited to higher trims.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. It included 10 airbags and a driver alertness monitor. The 2020 model received "Good" IIHS scores, and the 2021 updates likely improved its ratings.