The big news for the 2021 Wrangler is the introduction of two new powertrains: The plug-in hybrid 4xe and the fire-breathing, 470-hp V-8 in the new Rubicon 392. The electrified setup pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor for a stout 375-hp combined output. In addition to the extra electric power, the 4xe powertrain is also set to deliver up to 25 miles of electric-only driving and a claimed zero-to-60-mph time of 6.0 seconds. The 4xe system will be available only on four-door Unlimited models, and the battery pack's positioning under the rear seat allows the plug-in Wrangler to retain the same ground clearance and capability as nonhybrid models.
PROS Iconic design, legendary off-road capability, removable doors and roof.
CONS Snug passenger space, noisy cabin when cruising, rougher ride than more carlike rivals.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler comes with New Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid version; new Islander and 80th Anniversary special editions,Optional forward-facing camera for off-roading,Available full-time four-wheel drive for Rubicon and Rubicon 392 introduced with a 470-horsepower V8.
PROS Unrelentingly capable off-road Extensive customization options Available diesel engine Removable top and doors
CONS Steering is slow and feels loose, especially on the Rubicon trim Lots of wind and tire noise at highway speeds Less cargo space than some conventional SUVs
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler's #13 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category.Plug-in-hybrid Wrangler 4xe joins the lineup and forward-facing off-road camera is available.
PROS Incredible off-road ability User-friendly infotainment system Spacious seats Potent turbocharged engine available
CONS Lowest-possible predicted reliability rating Poor gas mileage Rougher ride than many competitors Subpar safety score
The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox ranked #11 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Chevrolet Equinox has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good gas mileage Solid handling capability User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Underwhelming base engine Low-rent interior Less passenger and cargo space than many competitors
The 2020 Chevrolet Equinox comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Diesel engine is no longer available.Newly standard safety equipment.Slightly revised packages and options.
Pros Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is quite powerful Smooth ride over most road surfaces Stable and precise handling
Cons Smaller cargo area compared to most competitors Wallet-friendly base L trim is special-order only The base engine doesn't feel very lively Interior materials quality is disappointing considering the price
Driver-assistance features find their way to the standard features list on the 2020 Equinox: automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlamps—all previously optional—are now on all models. Further to that point, adaptive cruise control is now included in the optional Driver Confidence II package. Elsewhere in the lineup, a Midnight Edition package is new on LT models which blacks out just about everything that can be blacked out, including the Chevy bow-tie logos. The 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine is no longer available.
Pros Spry driving demeanor, relatively efficient for an SUV, plenty of space for people and cargo.
Cons Base engine lacks power, infotainment display is tilted too far back, high price among compact SUVs.
