Toyota Corolla Cross Vs Jeep Cherokee: The Ultimate Showdown Of Compact Suvs – Which Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of compact crossovers, two prominent contenders stand out: the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Jeep Cherokee. These vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, versatility, and style, making them popular choices among drivers seeking a capable and efficient ride. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of these two vehicles, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Toyota Corolla Cross boasts a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), this powertrain delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience, achieving an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 31 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

The Jeep Cherokee, on the other hand, offers a more potent engine lineup. The base model features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, while the upgraded 3.2-liter V6 engine generates 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, achieving an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the four-cylinder engine and 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 engine.

Handling and Off-Road Capability

The Toyota Corolla Cross is primarily designed for urban and suburban environments, offering nimble handling and a comfortable ride quality. Its unibody construction and front-wheel drive (FWD) system prioritize fuel efficiency and everyday practicality. However, it lacks the ruggedness and off-road prowess of its Jeep counterpart.

The Jeep Cherokee, in contrast, excels in off-road adventures thanks to its rugged body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel drive (4WD) system with low-range gearing. Its advanced traction control systems and ample ground clearance enable it to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.

Interior Comfort and Features

Inside, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with seating for five passengers. The infotainment system features a user-friendly interface and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen display, a six-speaker audio system, and a rearview camera.

The Jeep Cherokee provides a more upscale and feature-rich interior, with ample space for passengers and cargo. The Uconnect infotainment system boasts a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen display and offers a wide range of connectivity options, including navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a premium audio system. Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof are available as options.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The Toyota Corolla Cross comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that includes lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available as options.

The Jeep Cherokee also offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking are available as options.

Cargo Space and Practicality

The Toyota Corolla Cross provides 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 60.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Jeep Cherokee offers slightly more cargo capacity, with 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Both vehicles offer a versatile cargo area with a low load floor and a wide rear liftgate opening, making it easy to load and unload items.

Pricing and Value

The Toyota Corolla Cross has a starting MSRP of $22,195, while the Jeep Cherokee starts at $27,490. The Toyota offers a lower entry price and better fuel economy, while the Jeep Cherokee provides more powerful engine options, a more rugged design, and a more upscale interior.

Final Note: Making the Right Choice

The Toyota Corolla Cross and Jeep Cherokee are both compelling choices in the compact crossover segment, offering distinct advantages that cater to different needs and preferences. The Toyota Corolla Cross is an excellent option for those seeking a fuel-efficient and practical vehicle for everyday commuting and urban driving. The Jeep Cherokee, on the other hand, is the ideal choice for adventure-seekers who desire a capable off-roader without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Which vehicle has better fuel economy, the Toyota Corolla Cross or the Jeep Cherokee?

The Toyota Corolla Cross offers better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway compared to the Jeep Cherokee‘s 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the four-cylinder engine and 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 engine.

2. Does the Toyota Corolla Cross have all-wheel drive (AWD)?

No, the Toyota Corolla Cross is only available with front-wheel drive (FWD).

3. Does the Jeep Cherokee have a more spacious interior than the Toyota Corolla Cross?

Yes, the Jeep Cherokee offers a more spacious interior, with more headroom, legroom, and cargo space than the Toyota Corolla Cross.

4. Which vehicle offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features?

Both the Toyota Corolla Cross and Jeep Cherokee offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. However, the Jeep Cherokee offers additional features such as adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system.

5. Which vehicle has a lower starting price?

The Toyota Corolla Cross has a lower starting price of $22,195 compared to the Jeep Cherokee‘s starting price of $27,490.