In the American automotive industry, big names like Ford and Chevy may hog the spotlight, but that doesn’t mean they are the only options on the table for the average consumer. More importantly, other brands can offer better products, services, and an overall experience without the need for the largest market share. If you’re looking for something specialized or unique, it is important to take the time to consider and compare other automotive brands that may fall off of your radar.
This is where a matchup like Jeep versus Toyota comes in handy. While you may be loyal to one side or another, or a different company altogether, when you begin to match up different car manufacturers, you will begin to see the differences between the two. These differences can help you decide which company itself may be a better fit and worthy of your attention in the future.
So why Jeep and Toyota? For people looking for great SUVs and off-road worthy vehicles, few other brands can stack up and compare to these two companies. Both have extensive histories of designing and selling vehicles that excel off the road. From the world-renowned Jeep Wrangler to the surprisingly worthy Toyota Tacoma, each company takes the cake in one aspect or another in the SUV and truck categories.
Here’s what each one has to offer and who wins the showdown in the end.
Toyota
At a time, Toyota absolutely dominated the American automotive industry. When American brands like Ford and Chevy were failing to keep up with demand in innovation, Toyota was introducing new models that literally reshape the entire industry for years. While they have lost some of the lead since that time, the company continues to be a worthy competitor and option to consider.
In the SUV realm, Toyota has a variety of options to consider for on-road and off-road use. Depending on what size you want, you may consider models such as the RAV4 or Highlander for general use. Both of these SUVs come with a multitude of engine options, safety features, and convenience packages that rival smaller sedans.
For off-roading, two models stand out above the rest. Based on the same frame, the Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner come with performance packages and accessories that excel off road. From protecting the car and its occupants to smoothing out the ride over rocky terrain, these models have a good amount of off-road capability while still retaining the safety and convenience features many customers demand regardless.
Jeep
This company has never achieved the same level of wide critical acclaim and success as Toyota. Despite that, the company has made a name for itself in the SUV and off-road world that is difficult to challenge. Considering they have been producing vehicles since World War II, they also have the history and experience of developing models with an eye towards consumer demands in these areas.
For general use, it is difficult to pass up the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Coming with a roomy interior and a buffet of standard and optional feature packages, this model embraces Jeep’s philosophy of offering more to its customers. The engine choices alone, which range all the way up to a 707 HP engine, gives you some idea just how much variety the company wants to offer you.
To get off the road in Jeep, you have to go with the Wrangler. This is arguably the premier vehicle to take when you don’t have the security and stability of pavement. Coming with many different options and customizability, the Wrangler is the type of vehicle you choose when you want to make it your own. Pop off the windshield, get rid of the doors, it doesn’t matter with the Wrangler: this vehicle will continue to go over challenging terrain no matter what.
Comparing the Two
How do you choose between two great brands? For most people, it comes down to the particular needs and experiences they have with each brand. If you have spent years driving Toyotas, you’re likely to stick with them. If you have experienced the customizability and performance Jeep has to offer, you’re less likely to abandon ship.
This type of loyalty can be holding you back from excellent service, however. While it was necessary to stick with one brand in the past, the combination of user reviews and online shopping has changed how customers shop for their vehicles these days. You are no longer required to stick it out with one brand when you have the entire automotive world at your fingertips.
If you don’t have the experience or loyalty towards a particular brand, this comparison is for you. On average, while Toyota has a lot to offer customers, in the world of SUV and/or off-roading capabilities, Jeep wins hands-down. Even though they offer fewer models to consider, Jeep excels in letting customers choose what they truly want in their vehicles.
If you want performance, you get performance. If you need cargo space, you get cargo space. Toyota does a good job of providing the basic amount of standard and optional packages for each of their vehicles, but that is where the customization ends. Jeep takes it to the next step, particularly with models like the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, where you have more control over the final layout of your new purchase.
Getting the Best Vehicle
In the end, the best brand is worthless if it doesn’t provide the exact vehicle you need in the future. More importantly, the company should deliver on the great financial commitment you are taking when buying a new SUV or truck. Since they aren’t cheap, you will want to know you are buying something worthy of your money and time.
To make sure you get everything you want, take your time to really research the brands and models you’re considering. If you have the luxury of time, utilize it as much as possible. Mistakes are most often made when you fail to consider the best possibilities you have in front of you.
