2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe maintained the classic Wrangler aesthetic, with its rugged exterior features like the exterior-mounted spare tire, removable doors, rounded headlights, and the iconic seven-slot grille. The only noticeable differences were the blue decals, badging, and the charger port on the driver’s side front quarter panel. Inside, the Wrangler 4xe offered a mix of leather and cloth seating options, with the top-tier Unlimited Rubicon featuring optional leather seats with the Rubicon logo. However, the lack of standard heated seats in Canada was surprising, and ventilated seats were not available. The interior combined Dark Saddle brown leather with black plastic, maintaining the traditional Wrangler feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia, despite its dated design, exuded a sense of timelessness with its modest grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines. Its large dimensions and 32 cm ground clearance made it imposing. Inside, the Sequoia felt somewhat outdated with its flat dashboard and small 7-inch touchscreen. However, the interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and ample space for passengers. The Nightshade Special Edition model added a touch of modernity, but the overall design remained rooted in the past.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered various four-wheel-drive settings, making it trail-ready. The Wrangler 4xe had an electric-only range of 35 kilometres and allowed drivers to choose between hybrid, electric, and e-save modes. The regenerative braking system enhanced efficiency, and the electric motors provided a burst of energy from a stop. However, it wasn't the quietest or best-handling vehicle for everyday driving.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and featured a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities. However, its fuel consumption ratings were high, reflecting its older engine design.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe was designed to accommodate a battery pack under the rear seats, minimizing space loss. It offered headroom of 1,023 mm in the Sahara grades and slightly less legroom than gas-only models. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 784 litres available with the seats up and 1,908 litres with them folded. The Wrangler's compact width made it manageable in urban settings, and the optional power-retracting roof added convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control and a power moonroof. The cargo area provided 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and 3,401 litres with both rows down. The Sequoia's interior was practical, with ample storage and power outlets for convenience.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe featured the Uconnect 4C system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system was intuitive, with hard buttons for essential functions. The Wrangler included off-road and Hybrid Electric Pages but lacked some modern tech features like a wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system felt clunky. The Sequoia offered a JBL audio system on higher trims and standard LED lighting, but lacked modern powertrain advancements.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe shared its safety ratings with other Wranglers, receiving a Good rating in most crash tests but a Marginal rating in the driver’s side small overlap front test. Safety features like blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were optional on most trims.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings but offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P and the STAR safety system. It included standard features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a full complement of airbags.