2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a rugged-looking exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive styling set it apart from previous RAV4 generations and most other compact crossovers. Despite its bold exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models like the Camry and Sienna. This platform provided a solid foundation but didn't elevate the RAV4's mechanical capabilities to match its adventurous looks.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a more traditional off-road aesthetic with its iconic boxy shape and removable roof and doors. The High Tide special edition model added unique features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Xtreme Recon package further enhanced its off-road prowess with a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 35-inch BF Goodrich tires, and rock rails. The Wrangler's interior was basic but functional, with durable materials and practical features like floor drain plugs for easy cleaning.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with a single engine option: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. While the engine was efficient and rev-happy, the transmission often hesitated, and the steering lacked feedback. The RAV4's off-road capabilities were modest, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models offering a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. These models also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity, compared to 1,500 pounds for other RAV4 variants.

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 $4,000 option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was also included. The Wrangler's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.8 mpg over a week of testing. Despite its thirst for fuel and rough ride, the Wrangler offered a unique and immersive driving experience, especially with the top and doors removed. Its off-road capabilities were unmatched, making it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 provided a spacious interior with good headroom and outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions. Cargo space was above average at 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, but still behind the Honda CR-V. The interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but storage space was somewhat limited.

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 some padded spots for arms and elbows. Visibility was a mixed bag, with excellent views in some areas and compromised views in others. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry and exit difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with small trays and compartments.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims had a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered an 8-inch or 9-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly flashy. The RAV4 lacked advanced tech features like a head-up display, which was only available on the RAV4 Prime.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While the larger Uconnect 8.4 system offered additional features like satellite radio and a premium sound system, the basic setup met most needs. The Wrangler also included remote engine starting, a passive keyless entry system, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were part of the Cold Weather Group.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in all crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, it missed the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA gave the RAV4 a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive. The NHTSA gave it a three-star rating for rollover resistance, and the IIHS rated it "Marginal" in several tests. The Wrangler's safety features were optional rather than standard, and its ratings suggested it required extra care when driving.