2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator, sharing its platform with the Ford Expedition, distinguished itself with unique front and rear styling elements and the Lincoln Embrace lighting system. The Navigator featured a lattice-type grille insert, an illuminated Lincoln star, and black roof pillars for a wraparound glass appearance. The new Reserve Monochromatic Package added a custom look with body-color enhancements and 22-inch black-painted wheels. The test vehicle, a standard-length Navigator Reserve with 4WD, was priced at $92,385 and included the Luxury and Reserve Monochromatic option packages. Inside, the Dark Slate leather interior boasted 30-way Perfect Position front seats, a dashboard with mid-century modern styling cues, and a panoramic glass roof.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with a more proportioned look despite its short grille and swept-back headlights. The exterior appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof covered the entire top surface, and its design ensured it stood out in a crowded parking lot, resembling the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee from the front.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Navigator offered multiple drive modes and a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds with RWD and 8,300 pounds with 4WD. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system simplified trailer maneuvering. The Navigator's acceleration was strong, averaging 16.4 mpg on the testing loop, with an EPA rating of 18 mpg combined. Despite its size, the Navigator's adaptive damping suspension provided excellent body motion control, though it felt large around town.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine choices: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 3.2-liter V6 with 271 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission proved capable and fuel-efficient. The Cherokee Trailhawk excelled off-road with features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in FWD to keep prices competitive, though most buyers preferred the 4WD models.

Entering the 2020 Lincoln Navigator required climbing up, but once inside, passengers enjoyed ample space and comfort. The test vehicle's 30-way Perfect Position front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and heated steering wheel ensured a perfect driving position. The second row offered a choice between a bench or captain's chairs, with the latter featuring a large center console. The third-row seat provided exceptional legroom and thigh support. Cargo space was class-leading, with up to 103.3 cubic feet in the standard model and 120.2 cubic feet in the Navigator L.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, falling short compared to competitors. The Cherokee's 102 cubic feet of passenger volume was competitive. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with trim levels affecting material quality. The Latitude featured rubberized black plastic, while the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered more upscale materials like suede and perforated Nappa leather.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was slow to load but included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and wireless device charging. The "Phone As A Key" technology allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided a compelling audio experience. Additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display, though the test vehicle lacked the optional rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. The system was user-friendly, with easy access to climate controls. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience in various climates. The Uconnect system's consistency across Stellantis brands was a significant advantage for Cherokee buyers.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability was standard on the Reserve trim. The Navigator earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the RWD model had a three-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee received top "Good" scores in IIHS crashworthiness categories but did not earn a Top Safety Pick award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available only on the Limited and Trailhawk trims.