For 2021 Previously optional advanced safety features are now standard.More standard comfort and convenience features on each trim.New Latitude Lux and related 80th Anniversary editions debut.
Pros Available V6 and turbocharged engines provide smooth, assertive power Suspension smooths out rough surfaces User-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers excellent off-road capability for a small SUV
Cons Sluggish acceleration with the base engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee prioritizes off-road capability beyond all else.
Pros Excessive off-road talent Refined turbo-4 Better looks than before Good active safety features
Cons Pricey compared to class Poor gas mileage No hybrid Cramped interior
For 2021, Jeep gives the Cherokee several newly standard active safety features. These include automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. The lineup also benefits from reshuffled standard features. For instance, the base model adds heated exterior mirrors and one-touch up/down front side windows; the Trailhawk adds a heated steering wheel and front seats as well as remote start. There's also a new 80th Anniversary Edition that's based on the Latitude LUX trim level, so it inherits all the same standard features. Highlights include Granite Crystal 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery with contrast stitching, power-adjustable front seats, the larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and more.
Pros Tows more than its competition, multiple powertrain options, class-leading off-road capability.
Cons Drives bigger than compact rivals, interior isn't exactly spacious, less cargo space than top competitors.
The 2020 Hyundai Kona comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Adaptive cruise control added to top-trim Kona Ultimate.Small changes to standard and optional equipment.
PROS Optional turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration Nimble handling makes it enjoyable to drive Lots of features for your money
CONS Weak base engine Gear shifts from the turbocharged engine's transmission are often unrefined Interior is trimmed with a lot of hard plastic panels
A few high-end features trickle down to the new mid-range SEL Plus model for 2020. Previously only available on the top-spec Ultimate, the SEL Plus comes with a 4.2-inch color display located between the two analog gauges and a wireless charging pad for smartphones. The auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink is now standard on both the Limited and Ultimate models as well as a new orange interior accent kit that automatically is added to either trim if the Sunset Orange or Ultra Black exterior colors are chosen.
Pros Standout styling, punchy turbo four, packed with features.
Cons Tight cargo space, numb steering.
The 2020 Hyundai Kona is an eyeful, but has nearly everything crossover buyers want in a city-friendly package.
Pros Smart and stylish cabin Standard active safety tech Great infotainment system Decent fuel economy EV version available
Cons Overwhelming styling Lackluster acceleration Unrefined dual-clutch transmission Small-ish back seat and cargo hold Price on top-end models
