Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Subaru Crosstrek

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to capture the growing interest in crossovers. By incorporating rugged aesthetics, standard all-wheel drive, and a higher driving position, Subaru successfully transformed the Impreza into a more SUV-like vehicle. The Crosstrek stood out with its black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and increased ground clearance of 22 centimetres, which was impressive even for dedicated SUVs. The vibrant colour options, such as Plasma Yellow Pearl, added to its appeal. Despite its SUV-like appearance, the Crosstrek retained the same Subaru Global Platform as other models, ensuring a refined driving experience.

Inside, the Crosstrek's interior was largely unchanged from the Impreza, offering functionality but lacking in flair. The Outdoor grade featured unique Plasma Yellow Pearl accents, which clashed with certain exterior colours. While the simulated carbon-fibre trim appeared cheap, the water-repellant upholstery was practical for outdoor adventures. Overall, the Crosstrek provided a higher driving position than the Impreza, but it didn't quite offer the commanding view of traditional SUVs. However, its large side windows ensured excellent visibility.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer, presented a traditional SUV design with a tall hood, broad shoulders, and an upright profile. It distinguished itself with a standard black roof, unique hood, front fascia, and grille, featuring laser-etched knurling. The Grand Wagoneer rode on a new body-on-frame architecture, allowing for independent suspension and weight-saving aluminum components. Inside, it shared styling cues with the Wagoneer but boasted more luxurious materials and features, such as 24-way power front seats with massage and Nappa leather upholstery.

The Grand Wagoneer's interior was a testament to luxury, with features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and optional ventilated second-row seats. The cabin was adorned with aluminum and American Walnut wood trim, while seat controls were conveniently placed on the doors. The Grand Wagoneer also featured a distinctive dashboard with "Grand Wagoneer" spelled out, ensuring passengers never forgot the vehicle they were in. Despite its opulence, the Grand Wagoneer maintained a practical side with ample cargo space and towing capacity.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, and a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The boxer engine design, a Subaru hallmark, provided a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. However, the SUV-like ride height somewhat negated this advantage. The Crosstrek came with a six-speed manual transmission for the 2.0-litre engine, while the Sport and Limited trims were equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). All trim levels featured standard all-wheel drive, with X-Mode enhancing off-road capabilities. Despite its SUV aspirations, the Crosstrek excelled on pavement, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a robust 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, generating 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately six seconds. The Grand Wagoneer featured standard four-wheel drive with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering multiple drive modes for various terrains. The Quadra-Lift air suspension system allowed for adjustable ride height, enhancing off-road capabilities. With 25.4 centimetres of ground clearance and impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles, the Grand Wagoneer was well-equipped for off-road adventures. However, its size and weight made it less agile on the road, with a bouncy ride at higher speeds.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered competitive passenger space, with front and rear legroom matching the Impreza hatchback. It provided slightly more rear headroom and a total cargo capacity of 1,565 litres with the rear seats folded. While it surpassed some rivals in cargo space, it fell short compared to others like the Honda HR-V and Kia Seltos. The Crosstrek featured a rear-seat reminder system and a practical cubby hole with USB ports for front passengers. However, rear-seat passengers had limited access to USB ports. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but not as elevated as traditional SUVs, though visibility was excellent.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven passengers with standard second-row captain's chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. With 775 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 2,667 litres with all rear seats folded, it provided ample storage. The Grand Wagoneer boasted a maximum towing capacity of 4,472 kilograms, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its additional weight. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone climate control, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. Subaru's unique dual-screen setup displayed redundant information, but the main touchscreen was user-friendly. The Crosstrek also included large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions, ensuring ease of use. EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons, enhancing safety.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a McIntosh audio system. Second-row passengers enjoyed a 10.25-inch touchscreen, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Grand Wagoneer featured Uconnect 5, an Android-based system with over-the-air updates. While the screen was occasionally slow to respond, the head-up display was clear and legible. The Grand Wagoneer also offered a separate touchscreen for the front passenger, allowing for screen sharing and navigation control.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. It featured EyeSight driver-assist technology with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. CVT-equipped models included additional safety features like automatic high beams and blind-spot monitoring. However, EyeSight's cameras were susceptible to obstruction, limiting functionality in certain conditions.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features encompassed intersection collision assist, night vision, and traffic-sign recognition. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with lane centring, with a hands-free version planned for future release.