Toyota Land Cruiser Vs Jeep Grand Cherokee: Who Built The Better 4x4?

SUVs are perhaps the most suited cars to make a statement. In case, you are wavering between Toyota Land Cruiser and Jeep Grand Cherokee, which car to opt for, then read on as this article would perhaps enable you to finally make up your mind.

For the sake of statistics, SUVs had the biggest piece of the pie, 47.4 percent of all US car sales in 2019, according to Tom Libby, an automotive analyst at IHS Markit. And, the forecast is that by 2025, the light truck segment that comprises SUVs, pickups, and vans is poised to inch further and claim 78 percent of US car sales in comparison to the current 72 percent. Both Toyota and Jeep are masters of manufacturing top-notch SUVs. In this blog, let's have Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX vs Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] and decode who built the better 4x4.

Engine and Transmission

In terms of engine, Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX noses ahead with its turbocharged 4461 cc, 8 cylinders V8 in comparison to Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] that only has a 3604 cc, 6 cylinders Pentastar V6. These engines produce a maximum output of 262 bhp and 286 bhp, respectively.

However, in terms of transmission, Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] turns the table and races ahead with eight gears, whereas Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX remains stuck at six. The top torque for Land Cruiser and Grand Cherokee are 650 Nm @ 1600 RPM and 347 Nm @ 4000 RPM, respectively.

Related: This Is The Most Reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee Year To Buy Used

Dimensions and Weight

Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX dominates Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] in terms of dimensions. The side-by-side comparison lets us know that the length of a Land Cruiser is 4950 mm in comparison to Grand Cherokee's 4828 mm. Similarly, the width and height of the former (1980 and 1910 mm) is a bit more than the latter (1943 and 1802 mm).

Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] has a larger wheelbase- 2915 mm in comparison to Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX's 2850 mm. The ground clearance is 225 mm for Toyota Land Cruiser, whereas, for Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is 171 mm. The curb weight for Land Cruiser and Grand Cherokee is 2725 and 2432 kilograms, respectively.

Related: Here’s What Makes The Toyota Land Cruiser A Classic

Suspensions, Brakes, Steering, and Tyres

While the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] still hops on Coilover steel springs, Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX employs KDSS technology for both front and rear suspensions. Both vehicles employ disc brakes. The minimum turning radius for Land Cruiser is 5.9 meters, slightly more than Grand Cherokee, which has a radius of 5.8 meters.

Both Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX and Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] use hydraulic power-assisted steering and alloy wheels. However, the former uses an alloy spare wheel, whereas the latter uses steel. Land Cruiser generally uses wider tires in comparison to Grand Cherokee.

Safety and Security

Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX comes with 10 airbags, whereas Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] has only seven airbags to offer. However, Grand Cherokee scores over Land Cruiser with middle rear three-point seatbelt and headrest. Both bring child seat anchor points and seat belt warning systems to the table.

In terms of security, both Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX and Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] have engine immobilizer features. For central locking, Land Cruiser uses remote technology, while Grand Cherokee applies keyless technology. Both the vehicles offer speed sensing door locks and child safety locks.

Related: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Here's What We're Expecting

Comfort and Convenience

To ensure that you keep your cool, Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX employs third-row AC along with the obligatory front and rear rows, which is also present in Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020]. To keep you warm in winter, both employ heaters.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] lets you have cabin-boot access, a feature that is missing in Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX. The former also has two 12 volt outlets in comparison to the latter. The other features that are more or less identical are- mirrors, cruise control, keyless start, and parking assist and sensors.

Related: The 10 Most Insane Modified Toyota Land Cruisers We've Found

Seats and Upholstery

In terms of seat upholstery, both Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX and Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] tick all the basics right with leather seat upholstery and leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob. The difference pops up with the passenger seat wherein the latter ensures that it is 12 way electrically adjustable in comparison to the former, which limits itself to only six.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] continues to outshine Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX with dual-tone interiors while the latter is limited to only single tones. However, the latter leaps forward with the feature that allows full folding of the rear seat, whereas the former allows only partial foldability.

Entertainment, Information, and Communication

For displaying information, Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] is undoubtedly better with touch-screen displays, whereas Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX is stuck at TFT displays. Moreover, Grand Cherokee also has display screens for rear passengers, a crucial feature that is missing in Land Cruiser.

Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX topples Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] when it comes to entertainment with CD player and DVD playback systems, features that are not present in the latter. However, Grand Cherokee has voice command to boast off, a feature that is unmatched in Land Cruiser.

Instrumentation

In terms of trip meter, Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX opts for multi-function display, whereas Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] retorts to electronics 2 trips version. Apart from that, there is nothing to separate between these behemoths and they are armed with similar instrumentation clusters and clocks and warning for low-fuels and door ajar.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Petrol [2017-2020] shifts gear and noses ahead when it comes to indicators as it has in its arsenal both gear and shift indicators. Sadly for Toyota Land Cruiser LC 200 VX, its response is blank when it comes to these indicators.

These Modern SUVs Have Glaring IssuesThat No One Should Ignore

From faulty engines to worn-out brake pads and electric wiring flaws are common issues in modern SUVs. However, people nowadays ignore these problems and continue with their daily routines. Although some of these errors are negligible, some are not and can cause potentially serious issues. Manufacturing and maintenance of an SUV are expensive tasks.

Many new SUVs have been launched that focus solely on luxury and ignore other must-have features valued for reliability. This causes many glaring issues in an SUV, be it a broken-down engine, petrol leaks, or even a rattling steering system. So, in order to keep you safe and sound, let's check out these modern SUVs with glaring issues that no one should ignore.

Related: 10 Of The Safest SUVs Available In 2021

BMW X1: Steering Issues And Suspension Issues

The BMW X1 caused a splash in the luxury subcompact SUV class with its ardent engine, user-friendly infotainment controls, and spacious cabin and cargo. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque powers this car. It's connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly. The rattle in the braking system usually occurs due to the BMW suspension systems.

These systems are generally complicated; thus, they can have numerous difficulties contributing to your vibration problem. For example- sometimes many ball joints and bushings might wear down or become loose at the same time.

Related: 15 Most Glaring Problems With BMW's SUVs

Buick Enclave: Braking Issues

The Buick Enclave is a midsize crossover with 3-row seating that was introduced in 2007 for the 2008 model year. Every Enclave comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. An inconspicuous automatic nine-speed transmission drives either the front or all four wheels. It certainly isn't the fastest crossover, but it's fast enough that there's never any fear while merging onto the highway.

Owners and lessees of the Buick Enclave have filed repeated complaints, such as mushy brakes and brake pedals that lock up or don't work when used, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about reoccurring brake difficulties that could jeopardize their safety.

Dodge Journey: Cabin And Transmission Troubles

The Dodge Journey made its premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007. It is a mid-size crossover SUV produced and sold by FCA's Dodge brand from 2009 to 2020, with a makeover for the 2011 model year. It is, without a doubt, the most affordable three-row SUV on the market today.

The Dodge Journey is an antiquated and average performance that is smaller than a normal midsize SUV. It travels smoothly and is quite quiet, but that's about it. It lacks agility and poor fuel economy thanks to the optional 3.6-liter V6 and a sluggish transmission. To make it worse, it also has a cramped third-row seat.

Related: The End of Dodge's Journey and Grand Caravan

Ford Escape: Ignition Issues

The Ford Escape is a tiny crossover vehicle that has been produced for four generations, starting in 2000. Its tall and squared-off form makes effective use of space in a tiny package, comfortably accommodating passengers and goods. Because of its low ground clearance and lack of all-wheel drive, it also had the least level of off-road capability.

The most prevalent problem experienced by Ford Escape owners, according to RepairPal.com, is ignition misfire. A lot of customers said the ignition coils had failed and needed to be replaced. The total cost of a replacement coil and installation is between $576 and $711 dollars. The issue is pervasive, affecting all engine sizes for all model years between 2001 and 2013.

Related: Ford Escape Spotted With New Look

Mazda CX-3: Lack Of Rear Seat Space

The Mazda CX-3 shares the same platform with Mazda 2 supermini, but it's longer, wider, and taller to reemphasize its SUV look. Portraying the principle of Mazda's 'right size' to engines, it offers larger engines with moderate power outputs instead of opting for little turbo units across the board. The CX-3 falls short in a few aspects. The biggest difficulty that test drivers discovered was a lack of space in the back, which made it difficult to transport large groups or do family outings.

Moreover, consumer reports describe the driving experience as rather claustrophobic, with small windows and a lack of elbow room leading to an uncomfortably tight feeling. Furthermore, the driving is rather loud and might be uncomfortable – the CX-3 does not take bumps well and can get a little noisy at higher speeds.

Related: 2019 Mazda CX-3 Crossover Gets More Power

Tesla Model X: Fussy Falcon-Wing Doors

The top-hinged rear doors on the 2021 Tesla Model X SUV are impressive, as is the long-range battery capacity. The electric motors in this car provide on-demand all-wheel drive as well as performance-car acceleration. The handling is also remarkably agile for a vehicle of this size. Its optional third row of seats should appeal to buyers who are looking for greater convenience and space.

There were numerous issues with the futuristic doors and mechanics when the Tesla Model X first went on sale. The automated shutting mechanism, like some of today's minivan sliding doors, is troublesome. It appears to open and close the doors normally, but occasionally detects something and does not completely close them.

Related: These Are The Coolest Features On The Tesla Model X

Volvo XC90: Automatic Emergency Brakes

In terms of luxury midsize SUVs, the Volvo XC90 is toward the bottom of the list. It has a roomy and luxurious cabin, a long list of standard equipment, and excellent fuel efficiency, but its lackluster performance holds it back.

Volvo admitted about the AEB issue and here is the verbatim statement: Automatic Emergency Brake - support system has been found to not function properly under certain conditions" following a software installation in January 2019. And, yes XC90 was one of the nine models that were recalled due to this issue.

Related: 2021 Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription Recharge Review

Volkswagen Atlas: Meter Mechanical Problems

The Volkswagen Atlas is a tough competitor in the three-row SUV segment. The Atlas is a pleasant car to drive, with a smooth ride and surprisingly quick handling for its size. The cabin is peaceful and spacious, with a third-row seat that can comfortably accommodate adults. The controls are well-designed, with easy-to-read gauges and a simple infotainment system.

Despite the incredible features of the Volkswagen Atlas, owners were disappointed when they discovered technical issues with meters. The V6 engine and smooth eight-speed automatic make it appear active in everyday driving, but its acceleration lags behind competitors, brakes screech, and the overall fuel economy of 20 mpg isn't particularly great. 

How To Call In The US From Other Countries

 The US is not only the most powerful country on the planet but also the richest in terms of cumulative wealth. Also, the business environment here is conducive to new players and investments. Hence, if you run a business and wish to expand internationally, then America should be the first country on your map. 

There are a few possible hiccups that, as a smart businessman, you should take care of in advance. And, one of them would be to connect with your target businesses. To connect with your American prospects, you have to get on the call with them. However, these conversations can take many rounds and would usually be lengthy. As a result, the communication charges may take a swing at your start-up’s finances. So, it would be wise to take a glance at other options.

Use Inexpensive Phone Plans

The biggest benefit of a direct phone line to the US is the clarity of the call. Even in our personal calls, we detest any sort of disturbance, and in business, the call clarity is uncompromisable. You may incur significant losses due to not-so-clear communication. Imagine you are running a call center, your client would not be impressed if while discussing your business proposition, there is a disturbance on the line. You may even lose that business opportunity altogether. While phone calls ensure clarity, on the downside, even a relatively inexpensive phone plan may cost you more in comparison to other options.

Use Online Apps

The use of online apps, such as Skype, is trendy nowadays for business communications. Skype is essentially a voice-over-IP (VoIP) service that allows a host of other services apart from calls. Video calls, document sharing, and presentation are some other services offered by skype, which are regarded as useful by most business users. The best part is that once you are connected with your client on Skype, you may use most of these services for absolutely free! Google Hangouts, RingCentral, and Viber are other VoIPs that you may check out. 

Use Mobile Apps

You may use mobile apps to communicate with your clientele too. Many mobile apps would let you communicate for free if both parties use the same app. Instead of using minutes, the calling services of mobile apps usually use data. To avoid overages, when calling using these apps, it's better to be on a Wi-Fi network or have an appropriate data plan. Facebook Messenger, FaceTime, and WhatsApp are some prime examples.

Though you may use any of the above methods to reach out to your US-based prospects, most probably the best solution would be to opt for a local business number. Communication is a two-way process; hence, it is natural for your clients in the US to try to reach out to you, sometimes even at unexpected times. Imagine their distress if they have to dial an international number or notice that you are offline while trying to send you a message. A local business number makes your business feel close to them. Also, it is a must, if you ever expand from B2B to B2C vertical. So, get a local business number now to add the necessary local plus professional vibe to your business.

Impact Of Covid-19 Pandemic On The Mental Well-being

Source: Unsplash

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant mental health risks all around the world as a major virus outbreak in the twenty-first century. To say the least, this pandemic has pushed people to the brink. While patients and healthcare personnel receive psychological support, the mental health of the general populace also needs attention.

As the epidemic progresses, continuing and required public health policies and actions expose an ever-growing number of people, from all walks of life to scenarios that are connected to poor mental health conditions, such as isolation and job loss.

Children

Children, compelled to be at home, away from school, friends, and schoolmates, may have many questions regarding the outbreak, and they turn to their parents or caregivers for answers. Children and parents do not all react to stress in the same way. Anxiety, distress, social isolation, and an abusive environment can affect a child's mental health negatively in the short or long term.

Young Adults

Anxiety, despair, sleep disturbances, and suicidal thoughts have all become more prevalent among young adults (18-24 years of age) as the pandemic has progressed. They also had to deal with a slew of adverse pandemic-related effects, including university closures, switch to remote work, and loss of income or job, all of which may wreak havoc on one's mental health.

Elderly

The elderly are particularly vulnerable to the COVID-19 outbreak for clinical and social reasons, such as weakened immune systems or other underlying health concerns. The enforced isolation from their relatives and friends is also a critical factor, which affects their mental well-being adversely. Medical professionals state that people aged 60 and up are more likely to contract the disease, and their condition may deteriorate to serious and life-threatening levels, even if they are otherwise healthy.

Adults

Many people, across the globe, have lost their jobs or businesses due to the pandemic, which had a negative impact on their mental health. People who lost jobs during the pandemic have consistently exhibited higher rates of anxiety and/or depressive disorder symptoms than their counterparts who managed to hold on to their jobs.

According to a poll in July 2020, many adults are reporting specific negative effects on their mental health and well-being, such as difficulty sleeping (36%), or eating (32%) due to worry and stress over the coronavirus, increases in alcohol consumption or substance use (12%), and worsening chronic conditions (12%). 

Healthcare Professionals

Doctors, nurses, and paramedics acting as the vanguard soldiers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic are increasingly vulnerable to mental health issues. Long working hours, a lack of protective gear and supplies, high patient load, a lack of effective medication, death of colleagues by exposure to the disease, social distancing, the dire situation of their patients, and isolation from family and friends may all have a negative impact on health workers' mental health. 

Mental Healthcare

The ongoing crisis, due to COVID-19, highlights new and existing barriers to mental health, given the pandemic's implications for those with new or pre-pandemic mental health disorders. More than 20% of people with anxiety and/or depressive illness reported requiring but not obtaining counseling or proper treatment during the epidemic. In part, this is owing to a present scarcity of mental health experts, which has been aggravated by the pandemic. With the influx of COVID-19 patients, in masses, needing hospital beds, the pre-pandemic shortage of psychiatric hospital beds has intensified.

The COVID-19 pandemic is linked to high levels of psychological stress, which in many situations, is alarming as it either exceeds or meets the clinical criteria. Its harmful impact on mental health is a global public health priority. Even if new cases and deaths attributable to the pandemic subside, policymakers and authorities must brainstorm and address how to meet the increased need for mental healthcare, which would likely remain a challenge for the long term.

Why Fans Are Going Gaga About Danganronpa S

     

via: YouTube

Nintendo has managed to salvage E3 for many fans with a show packed with surprises and announcements. The latest version of E3 now includes a new 2D Metroid game and the remake of Advance Wars. No one expected Nintendo to adapt the entirety of the Danganronpa games to Switch, including a new spinoff board game RPG hybrid called Danganronpa S: Endless Summer.

Danganronpa Decadence is a Nintendo Switch game collection that includes all three mainline Danganronpa games (Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc, Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair, and Danganronpa v3: Killing Harmony). To the joy and surprise of the fans, this collection now also hosts Danganronpa S: Endless Summer, a side game originally included in Danganronpa v3. This game has now been enriched with sufficient storylines and artworks to justify it as a standalone game. Now that we have managed to arouse your curiosity, let’s dive deeper to gauge why the fans are going gaga about Danganronpa S.

Change in Storyline

For the uninitiated, these Danganronpa detective mystery visual novel games follow an identical formula. You're locked in a location with 15 or so other students, all of whom have unique talents that make them "Ultimates" in their areas, by a deranged teddy bear named Monokuma. The only way to gain your freedom is to murder another student and then get away with it in a class trial while the other students struggle to figure out the culprit. This series is renowned for its bizarre characters, ingenious plot twists, and intricate mysteries. 

What makes Danganronpa S such a unique new entry, based on the teaser, is that it appears to have little in common with its former versions. The storyline in this version takes a break from the usual despair of knowing the fact that there is a murderer among them who can kill anyone anytime, and it sometimes wanders into some cheerful moments enjoyed by the characters.

Enticing Promotional Artwork

via: YouTube

The enticing promotional artwork also suggests a joyful excursion, with the characters from each game embarking on a pleasant vacation adventure. For example, a scene depicts the protagonists participating in a festival during the night, featuring stalls and awards. In contrast, another illustration shows a different group of characters enjoying a good time on a bright, sunny day at the beach. After so many games where it felt like these moments were few and far between, Danganronpa S is the ideal gift for the decade-old franchise fans.