2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. It featured upgraded interior detailing and a simulated suede headliner, making it appear more luxurious than its price suggested. The standard LED headlights added a modern touch, and the overall design was polarizing, drawing mixed reactions. Inside, the Palisade's cabin was a standout in its class, with quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather and a suede headliner, offering a sense of luxury that belied its cost.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a sportier two-row version. It shared its powertrain and trim-level lineup with the larger Grand Cherokee L. The Grand Cherokee's styling paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and headlights, a lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. The interior was similar to the Grand Cherokee L, with a focus on quality and comfort. The Summit Reserve trim offered a luxurious experience with premium leather seats, a high-end audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, and it delivered a firm yet comfortable ride with excellent body-motion control. It had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) and featured a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 293 horsepower and a 5.7-litre V8 engine with 357 horsepower. The V6 had a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms (6,200 pounds), while the V8 could tow up to 3,265 kilograms (7,200 pounds). Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering varying levels of off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-roading with features like an electronic locking rear differential and Quadra-Lift air suspension. Fuel consumption ranged from 11.0 to 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The second-row captain’s chairs provided ample legroom and easy access to the third row. The Palisade boasted 509 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,447 litres with the seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee prioritized driver and front passenger comfort, with heated seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. Higher trims added features like ventilated seats and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence. Rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. Cargo space in the two-row Grand Cherokee was 1,067 litres behind the back seat, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade featured two infotainment systems: an 8-inch and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both allowed dual smartphone pairing via Bluetooth, but only the 8-inch system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional tech features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, with a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration. The optional 10.25-inch touchscreen for the front passenger provided entertainment and assistance to the driver. The McIntosh audio system and rear-seat entertainment with Amazon Fire TV integration were available upgrades.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It included a rear occupant alert system and active blind-spot monitoring. The Highway Driving Assist system provided adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of high-strength steel and aluminum, enhancing safety. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to arrive in 2022.