2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5's overall appearance was classy and modern, with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version included S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, offering a more refined look with standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, packed with technology yet uncluttered. The interior featured high-quality materials, including real wood and metal, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous look, with a choice between a classic two-door or a more practical four-door body style. Buyers could select from various powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions available. The High Tide model, based on the Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, added options like LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield. Visibility varied, with some challenges due to the spare tire and roof design. The Wrangler's unique character and capabilities made it a singularly immersive driving experience, appealing to those seeking adventure and freedom.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total combined output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup, paired with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined, with a gasoline-only mode rated at 8.8 litres per 100 km combined. The drivetrain featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD, allowing for various driving modes, including electric-only and hybrid. The Q5's handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivered 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system provided versatility for different driving conditions. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was higher, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of driving. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler offered a rough-and-tumble ride with loud cabin noise, vague steering, and touchy brakes. Despite these traits, the Wrangler's off-road capabilities and immersive driving experience made it a beloved choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a well-balanced interior space, with 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row and up to 1,503 litres with the second row folded. The second row provided reasonable legroom (960 mm), headroom (958 mm), and shoulder room (1,435 mm), accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior featured smartly laid-out storage options, including cupholders, cubbies, and a centre-console storage bin.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler presented challenges in entry and exit due to its raised suspension and ground clearance. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel. Visibility varied, with some challenges due to the roof design and spare tire. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. The Wrangler Unlimited offered 898 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small storage compartments.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered three customizable views and was paired with a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included, enhancing connectivity and entertainment options.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While lacking the larger Uconnect 8.4 system, the Wrangler offered essential infotainment features. Optional tech included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top "good" ratings in most categories. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less favourable, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving.