2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with opinions softening over time. While the short grille and swept-back headlights initially divided opinions, they became more accepted over the years. 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 and painted lower body cladding. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof was a standout feature, covering the entire top surface. Despite its crowded segment, the Cherokee managed to stand out, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee from the front.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple since its 1996 debut, had grown in size and sophistication over five generations. The latest iteration, part of a 2019 redesign, was a sales leader in the U.S. Its exterior design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured angular wheel arches and crisp lines that contrasted with the body-side bends. The RAV4's expressive headlights and grille gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, anchored by a straightforward center stack. The interior design included a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied various cabin elements together, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options. The base Latitude and Latitude Plus trims came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower. A 3.2-liter V-6 engine, available on higher trims, delivered 271 hp, while the top-tier 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder engine offered 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite these options, the Cherokee's acceleration was modest, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 seconds for the V6 and 7.4 seconds for the turbo-four. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, which improved over time. The Cherokee Trailhawk excelled off-road, thanks to features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in FWD, appealing to budget-conscious buyers and rental fleets.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD optional. Fuel economy ranged from 27-35 mpg, depending on the drivetrain. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 hp and achieved 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasted 302 hp, AWD, and an eCVT, with a 42-mile electric range and 94 MPGe. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and Multi-Terrain Select for AWD models. The Adventure AWD model provided smooth power delivery and responsive acceleration.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, lagging behind competitors. It provided 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, competitive within its class. The interior was simple and businesslike, with trim levels affecting material quality. The Latitude featured rubberized black plastic, while the Trailhawk offered suede seat inserts and contrasting stitching. The Latitude Lux boasted perforated Nappa leather for a sporty look.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded. It had a payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds and towing capabilities ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the model. Inside, the RAV4 was spacious, accommodating four comfortably and five in a pinch. The front row provided ample room, with numerous storage options throughout the cabin. The second-row middle seat was less desirable but not uncomfortable.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. It offered 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens, depending on the trim. The system supported wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis brands, providing a familiar experience for users.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime offered advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless charging pad. A bird’s-eye view camera system and head-up display were available on top trims.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received "Good" scores in crashworthiness from the IIHS but lacked a Top Safety Pick award. It earned a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was limited to higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard. It featured enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the Prime variant earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star rating. Higher trims offered additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and parking assist.