2021 Jeep Cherokee vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, becoming more palatable over time. Initially, the short grille opening and swept-back headlights were points of contention, but after seven years, the Cherokee's proportions seemed more balanced. The exterior appearance varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude with 17-inch wheels to the more refined 80th Anniversary Edition with 19-inch Granite Crystal wheels and painted lower body cladding. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof was a standout feature, covering the entire roof surface. Despite its crowded segment, the Cherokee managed to stand out, bearing a resemblance to the larger Jeep Grand Cherokee, especially from the front.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, evaluated in Black Onyx, aimed to appeal to those who preferred a black-on-black aesthetic. This edition removed almost all chrome from the exterior, creating a striking, albeit high-maintenance, appearance. However, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of the first-generation 2002 GX 470. Inside, the cabin quality was high, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the V8 engine's faint roar. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with prices ranging from $56,700 to $66,210, and the Black Line Special Edition starting at $60,535.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produced 180 horsepower, while the 3.2-liter V6 significantly increased output to 271 hp. The top-tier 2.0-liter GMET4 turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the V6 in torque. Despite these options, none provided outstanding acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 to 7.4 seconds. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, which had improved over time. The Cherokee's off-road capabilities were notable, especially in the Trailhawk model, which included features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. However, the availability of front-wheel drive (FWD) aimed to keep prices competitive, particularly for rental fleets.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 5,126 pounds, was equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain enabled a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX featured a six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, distributing power 40% to the front and 60% to the rear under normal conditions. The GX's design, with a drag coefficient of 0.35, and its V8 engine contributed to a combined fuel economy of 16 mpg. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) enhanced stability and off-road capability. Despite its age, the GX remained agreeable to drive, though the steering and brake pedal required some adjustment.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, competed with compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, it fell short in utility, offering 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, less than competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Ford Escape. The Cherokee provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, competitive within its class. The interior varied by trim level, from the basic Latitude with rubberized black plastic to the upscale Trailhawk with suede seat inserts and the Latitude Lux with perforated Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. The interior featured comfortable seats and well-placed padding, though some switchgear felt outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The front seats were heated and ventilated, and the back seats were heated, with triple-zone automatic climate control. However, rear seat access was challenging, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The GX's side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, and cargo capacity was limited to 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system, praised for its user-friendly interface. Available with 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreens, the system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired), a 4G WiFi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was also available. The system's consistency across Stellantis brands was a significant advantage for Cherokee buyers.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface touchpad. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, along with a CD player and a Lexus app with smartwatch compatibility. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was available but not included in the test vehicle. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and the voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist, surround-view, and terrain-view cameras.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee did not earn a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS but received top "Good" scores in crashworthiness and a G+ score for LATCH ease of use. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available only on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on its standard Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.