In the market for an SUV? You may find yourself wondering, which brand has the best lineup of SUVs to choose from? Well, have we got news for you. When it comes to comparing Jeep and Subaru, there is a clear difference. 

Jeep’s lineup of trail-tested SUVs

Jeep is known for its lineup of trail-tested SUVs. From the iconic Jeep Grand Cherokee to the beloved Jeep Wrangler, when it comes to SUVs, Jeep’s lineup is among the most well known of them all.

For the true outdoor enthusiast, an SUV like the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is an obvious choice. Capable of taking on even the most grueling of conditions, the 2020 Wrangler is also available with Off-Road Pages to keep you up-to-date about your offroading stats.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler four-door was recognized by Kelley Blue Book for having the Best Resale Value in the Off-Road SUV category too. Kelley Blue Book also awarded it with its 5-Year Cost to Own Award. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is another award-winning SUV and, according to Jeep, has received more awards than any other SUV on the market.

Unfortunately for Jeep, not all of its SUVs are held in such high regard. The 2020 Jeep Compass was rated by Consumer Reports as one of the worst compact SUVs of 2020. 

Subaru’s lineup of rugged SUVs

While Subaru’s lineup of SUVs isn’t as extensive as Jeep’s, that doesn’t make it any less appealing. Among this year’s lineup are the Subaru Ascent, Forester, Crosstrek, and the Subaru Outback. Each offers a multitude of exterior and interior features, along with a slew of tech-savvy safety features meant to put your mind at ease behind the wheel.

Perhaps the most interesting vehicle among Subaru’s lineup of SUVs is the Subaru Ascent. With three rows of seating, the 2021 Ascent is the biggest SUV Subaru has to offer. Also standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive, and available with the SUBARU STARLINK Entertainment Anywhere Kit, the 2021 Ascent is a worthy competitor to an SUV like the higher-end Jeep Grand Cherokee.

There’s no denying that Subaru is a solid brand too. Not only is it a three-time Best Overall Brand winner, according to Kelley Blue Book, but Kelley Blue Book has also recognized it as the Most Trusted Brand for six years running.

Further consider that Subaru says 97% of its vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today, and a Subaru SUV becomes an even more exciting prospect.

How do Jeep and Subaru compare?

When it comes to choosing between the two brands, ask yourself what you’re looking for in your next SUV. While both brands have several SUVs to pick from, not all of every single one is going to satisfy your unique automotive needs. 

If standard all-wheel drive is a requirement, know that not all Jeep SUVs come standard with it. Take, for instance, the Jeep Cherokee, which comes with front-wheel drive. While Jeep does offer three available 4×4 systems, it will require a costly upgrade. When it comes to Subaru, all-wheel drive is standard on all of its SUVs.

Unlike Jeep, the American Customer Satisfaction Index says Subaru has been ranked #1 in owner satisfaction for two years running too. That isn’t to say Jeep owners haven’t been satisfied with their choice of SUV, but it definitely bolsters Subaru’s position as a trustworthy brand to buy from.

Should you buy a Jeep SUV or a Subaru SUV?

For SUV shoppers, choosing between Jeep and Subaru can make for a daunting decision. Should it, though? Subaru has established itself time and again as a trusted brand with vehicles proven to last 10 years or more. Jeep, on the other hand, has yet to earn such an accolade.