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
Pros Fresh new design that's still instantly recognizable as an icon A trim to suit (almost) every buyer Excellent suspension and off-road abilities Body panels come off easily
Cons Side mirrors stay on even when doors are off Rear and side visibility could be better Jeep has far more aftermarket support Too wide for Wrangler trails
An all-new off-road-focused SUV Offered in two- and four-door configurations Part of the sixth Bronco generation, revived for 2021
Pros Offers extraordinary level of customization Impressive all-terrain specifications Cool retro styling without being kitschy Smart off-road-specific technologies
Cons Base engine may be weak, especially for the four-door Manual transmission only offered on the base engine
The 2021 Ford Bronco is a throwback SUV in all the best ways.
Pros Bronco’s back Awesome retro looks Removable doors and roof Sturdy powertrains Ready to hit the trail out of the box
Cons How much will top trims cost? How bouncy will the ride be? Swing gate could be a problem in cities Fuel economy not likely to be great No word on hybrids, yet
Ford resurrects the Bronco nameplate for 2021, and it emulates the old-school vibe and off-road pedigree of its iconic mid-1960's predecessors. Now that Ford has revealed the thing, we have a much better idea of its capabilities and specifications. The new Bronco will arrive in dealerships in spring 2021.The base two-door Bronco starts at just under $30,000, but upgrading to upper trims gets expensive quickly. Our ideal configuration would be a four-door with the more powerful engine, and it needs to have the off-road hardware to live up to its roots. That points us towards the Bronco Wildtrack, which comes standard with 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels and huge 35-inch mud-terrain tires.
