2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its timeless appeal, blending rugged utility with upscale sophistication. Its design, characterized by big wheels and flared fenders, contributed significantly to its success. The Grand Cherokee defied easy categorization, offering a range of trims from the affordable Laredo to the luxurious Summit, and even performance models like the SRT and Trackhawk. The Summit trim, with its premium leather and wood interior, exuded luxury, though the aging interior design signaled a need for a refresh.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a bold, distinctive look that required an acclimation period. Its design featured a blunt nose and floating roof effect, with swollen haunches for balance. The Highlander offered trims like the XSE, Limited, and Platinum, with the hybrid powertrain available from LE to Platinum. The interior, especially in the Limited trim, provided an upscale feel with leather upholstery and a large touchscreen, though some design elements like the dashboard shelf were less accommodating than previous models.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, capable of towing up to 6,200 pounds. For those seeking more power, the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 offered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, with a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8 featured cylinder deactivation technology, achieving 18.2 mpg in mixed driving. The Grand Cherokee's Quadra-Trac II 4WD system and Quadra-Lift air suspension enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its tight turning radius and effective brakes made it versatile for daily driving.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 243 hp with an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" for smooth transitions, though the powertrain felt strained during hard acceleration or hill climbs. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, averaging 31.7 mpg, but lacked driving excitement. Its steering was lifeless, and the ride could be unsettled on uneven roads. However, the immediate torque from the electric motor and quiet freeway cruising were highlights.

Inside the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit, occupants enjoyed supportive seats with leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat offered comfort but limited legroom, and the optional entertainment system could feel claustrophobic. Cargo space measured 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Practical storage was limited, though features like grocery bag hooks were useful.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided roomy front seats with power adjustments and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was generous, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage solutions were less generous than previous models, and the wireless charger placement was inconvenient.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured the Uconnect 4C with Nav system, offering navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system was user-friendly, with responsive controls and effective voice recognition. The Summit trim included a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, providing excellent sound quality. While tech features were limited, the essentials were well-executed.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The Limited trim offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and navigation. The infotainment system was intuitive, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience, though the JBL system's sound quality varied.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee received mixed safety ratings. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA with 4WD but performed poorly in IIHS small-overlap tests. The Summit trim included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other safety features, though the headlights rated poorly unless upgraded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with enhancements like intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard from the LE trim. The Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS with its new headlights.