2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, characterized by the iconic kidney grille and adaptive LED headlights, was unmistakably BMW, offering a sense of familiarity and luxury. The xLine models featured matte aluminum grilles and satin aluminum finishes, while the M Sport styling added a sporty flair with body-color matched trims and high-gloss black accents. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, utilizing leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its overuse of black plastic. The M Sport models boasted unique interior elements like an M sports steering wheel and exclusive trim strips, enhancing the sporty aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous look, with options for both two-door and four-door models. Buyers could choose from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler's design was highly customizable, with four core trim levels and numerous special editions, such as the High Tide model, which featured LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Xtreme Recon package added a 1.5-inch suspension lift and 35-inch tires, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The Wrangler's interior was basic but durable, with cloth upholstery and plastic materials, designed for a rugged driving experience.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, achieving 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M boasted 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model provided 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a 30-mile all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were criticized for being less engaging than expected from a BMW, with dynamics likened to a Lincoln. The X5's fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M achieving 15 mpg combined, the X5 M50i at 18 mpg, and the X5 xDrive45e rated at 50 MPGe when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was included. The Wrangler's fuel economy was lower than expected, averaging 16.8 mpg over a week of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a rough-and-tumble feel, loud cabin noise, and vague steering. Despite these traits, the Wrangler was celebrated for its immersive and adventurous driving experience, offering a sense of freedom and exploration.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with power functionality made loading cargo convenient. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space due to its battery, but the difference was minimal for most buyers.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, and the driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views and others being compromised. The rear seats provided agreeable accommodations for two adults, with air conditioning vents and cupholders. Storage options were limited, with netting on door panels and small compartments. The tailgate, with its heavy 35-inch spare wheel, required careful handling when opening, revealing 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, satellite radio, automatic climate control, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included remote start, a head-up display, quad-zone climate control, a wireless smartphone charger, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system. The Wrangler 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, enhancing comfort for open-air driving.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and lane departure warning. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in sunny conditions. The X5 received Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, despite being subject to seven recalls.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Wrangler's safety ratings were less favorable, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS for crash tests. The Wrangler's safety features were optional, and its design required careful driving.