2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, with its blunt and bulbous nose giving it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was characterized by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, swollen haunches, and cartoonishly-flared quarter panels. Despite its 20-inch alloy wheels, the Highlander's design could feel overwhelming. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, but the instrument-panel shroud felt cheap and hollow. The asymmetrical dashboard housed a 12.3-inch touchscreen, which suffered from reflections on sunny days. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges created a busy appearance at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous look, with its classic two-door or more practical four-door body style. Buyers could choose from various engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline-powered V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler's design allowed for customization with different tops and special editions. The High Tide model, based on the Sport S trim, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Wrangler's Hydro Blue paint sparkled in sunlight, and the Sunrider Fliptop made it easy to enjoy open-air driving. Inside, the Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and plastic materials. The driving experience was unique, with a close driving position and a sense of adventure.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. It achieved a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km, with a total output of 243 horsepower. While the hybrid system provided adequate power for climbing hills and reaching freeway speeds, it sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the ride was characterized by unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes operated smoothly, and the SUV offered a comfortable and quiet ride on flat terrain.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was higher, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing. The driving experience was unique, with a loud cabin, vague steering, and a rough ride. However, the Wrangler's off-road capabilities and open-air driving experience made it appealing to adventure seekers.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered roomy and supportive accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the Highlander felt narrow, and the third-row seat was uncomfortable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, storage options were limited, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, but the driving position required acclimation. Visibility was mixed, with some areas offering excellent views and others compromised by the spare tire and roof design. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was 898 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL premium audio system, and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. The JBL sound system offered powerful audio, but sound quality varied. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver's voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror provided an unobstructed view.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's Sport S trim featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While it lacked the larger Uconnect 8.4 system, it provided essential connectivity. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during open-air driving.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The system added intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with some areas receiving four-star ratings.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, 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.