2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, but over time, its appearance became more familiar and less striking. Its blunt, bulbous nose and black windshield pillars created a floating roof effect, while swollen haunches attempted to balance the styling. Despite the availability of 20-inch wheels on higher trims, the overall design felt overwhelmed by cartoonishly-flared quarter panels. The interior offered a two-tone look with soft leather in higher trims, but the instrument panel's hollow sound detracted from the quality. The asymmetrical dashboard housed a 12.3-inch touchscreen, though reflections were an issue on sunny days. Controls were well-organized, but nighttime illumination appeared busy.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe made its presence known through its unique sound and subtle design differences, such as a "4xe" badge and blue accents. When operating on electric power, it was nearly silent, drawing attention with its pedestrian notification system. The Rubicon trim, painted in Firecracker Red, featured over $13,000 in options, including a $66,690 price tag. Inside, the Wrangler 4xe retained its rugged charm with blue stitching and PHEV-specific gauges. The interior was practical, with grab handles and straightforward controls, but lacked luxury. The Wrangler's purposeful simplicity was evident, though it was better equipped than previous models.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, achieving 36 mpg combined (35 mpg with AWD) and producing 243 hp. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While more efficient than its predecessor, the Highlander Hybrid lacked driving excitement. It managed hills and freeway speeds but sounded strained under acceleration. Steering was lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. On smooth roads, it handled well, but rough terrain revealed its shortcomings. Around town, electric motor torque and EV Mode were highlights, but overall, driving enjoyment was lacking.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with two electric motors and a 17-kWh battery, offering 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. It provided 21 miles of electric range and 49 MPGe combined. The Wrangler 4xe featured three powertrain modes: Hybrid, Electric, and e-Save. In Hybrid mode, it accelerated to 60 mph in six seconds. Electric mode allowed for gas-free driving, while e-Save preserved battery power. During testing, the Wrangler 4xe averaged 19.1 mpg over 757 miles, with 120.9 miles on electricity. Its steering had on-center slop, but regenerative braking improved efficiency.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited offered comfortable front seats with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. Second-row captain’s chairs were standard, but a bench seat increased capacity to eight. The third row was cramped and uncomfortable for adults. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage was adequate but not as generous as before, with a wireless charger blocking access to the center storage bin.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe required effort to enter due to high door sills and lacked side steps. Once inside, it provided a classic Wrangler driving position with clear visibility. Manual seat adjusters were available, but storage was limited due to the center console layout. Rear-seat space was upright but comfortable, with air vents and charging ports. Cargo access was challenging with a swing-out tailgate and flip-up window. Cargo volume was 27.7 cubic feet, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with seats down.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Limited trim offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and navigation. Controls were intuitive, but the sound system's quality varied. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror provided a clear view. The driver information display offered detailed data and settings adjustments.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon included an 8.4-inch Uconnect system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. The Alpine sound system overcame wind noise but hindered conversation. The Uconnect system was user-friendly but showed signs of aging. Charging indicators and trip summary data were helpful features, providing charging status and time estimates.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on LE trim and above. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had some inconsistencies. The Highlander received a five-star NHTSA rating and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offered safety features in the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group. Blind-spot warning was recommended due to narrow side mirrors. LED headlights with automatic high beams were effective but rated Marginal by IIHS. The Wrangler had a four-star NHTSA frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover rating.