2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for the model year. It was notably longer, measuring 226.9 inches compared to the Escalade's 211.9 inches, and slightly lower in height. This extension primarily enhanced cargo space, while the increased wheelbase of 134.1 inches improved road stability and design proportions, giving it a more balanced appearance. The Escalade ESV boasted a luxurious exterior with chrome styling on various trim levels, while Sport models featured blacked-out accents. All versions rode on 22-inch wheels, with finishes varying by trim. The vehicle's exterior was further enhanced by features like LED headlights, roof rails, and power-extending assist steps, contributing to its luxurious appeal.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with its short grille and swept-back headlights becoming more accepted over time. The Cherokee's appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels. Jeep's expertise in roof design was evident in the Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof, which covered the entire top surface. The Cherokee stood out in a crowded crossover SUV market, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee from the front, ensuring it was easily recognizable in parking lots.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: a standard 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine delivering 277 horsepower and the same torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). The Escalade ESV's V8 engine provided sufficient power, though it could have benefited from more low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The vehicle's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, depending on the trim level. Fuel economy was estimated at 17 to 23 mpg combined for the traditional Escalade, with the RWD Escalade ESV averaging around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine choices: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower, a 3.2-liter V6 with 271 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Cherokee's acceleration was adequate, with the V6 and turbo-four engines achieving 0 to 60 mph in about 7.2 and 7.4 seconds, respectively. The Cherokee's off-road capability was highlighted by the Trailhawk model, featuring Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, with FWD models offering a more budget-friendly option.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable and plush people and cargo hauler, offering leatherette seating surfaces as standard and leather upholstery as an option. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. The Escalade ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, with the third row being suitable for occasional adult use. Cargo space was generous, with 126.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third row. The power-adjustable third row could be folded using a switch in the cargo area, though it occasionally required manual adjustment. The hands-free power liftgate worked inconsistently, and the rear window could be opened for additional storage options. An adaptive air suspension facilitated entry and exit, while upscale features like a center console cooler were available.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee occupied a space between the smaller Renegade and larger Grand Cherokee, competing with compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Cherokee's cargo space was limited, with 26 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 55 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. Passenger volume was competitive at 102 cubic feet. The Cherokee's interior was simple and businesslike, with trim levels influencing the level of luxury. The Latitude featured rubberized black plastic, while the Trailhawk offered suede seat inserts and contrasting stitching. The Latitude Lux trim boasted perforated Nappa leather upholstery for a more upscale appearance.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was a technological marvel, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with an optional upgrade to a 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. The vehicle came equipped with wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. A standout feature was the 38-inch curved OLED screen, comprising three screens that displayed driver information and infotainment content. The OLED technology provided deep blacks, enhancing nighttime driving. Cadillac's Super Cruise advanced driving assist system was available, allowing hands-free driving on designated roadways. While Super Cruise generally performed well, it occasionally struggled with lane changes and construction zones, requiring driver intervention.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Stellantis brands' highly regarded Uconnect infotainment system, available with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only via wired connections. The Cherokee also offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, providing convenience in various climates. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis vehicles, offering a user-friendly experience with minimal latency issues.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with a suite of safety features, including front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Additional technologies such as adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and night vision were available. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating in the rollover test due to its top-heavy design.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received top "Good" scores in crashworthiness categories from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick award. The Cherokee's headlights received mixed ratings, with upper trims rated "Acceptable" and others "Marginal." The NHTSA gave the Cherokee a four-star overall safety rating, with a slight demerit for front driver side crash protection. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring, while adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims.