2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels in Canada, all featuring standard all-wheel drive: EX, SX, SX Limited, and SX Limited Nightsky Edition. Pricing ranged from $46,195 to $55,695, excluding a $1,895 destination charge. The Telluride was praised for its luxurious feel, especially in the SX Limited trim, which included premium stitched Nappa leather, a simulated suede headliner, and heated and ventilated seats. The SX Limited Nightsky Edition introduced a blacked-out aesthetic with gloss black 20-inch aluminum wheels and a unique grille insert. The Telluride's design was lauded for its contemporary style and quality execution, with a solid and smooth transmission shifter enhancing the driving experience. However, the interior colour options were limited, with light grey leather only available in the SX Limited trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, maintained Jeep's design traditions while offering a sportier look. Available in multiple trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee's pricing started at $51,545, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The SUV's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and headlights, a lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of luxurious features, especially in the Summit Reserve trim, which included quilted leather seats, a McIntosh audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the gloss black finish on some controls in higher trims was noted for causing reflections, making them harder to use.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart, and its AWD system included a low-speed Lock function for maximum traction. With 20.3 centimetres of ground clearance, the Telluride handled low-grip terrain effectively. The SUV's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride even on uneven surfaces. The Telluride's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with test results averaging 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 engine with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V6 had a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms, while the V8 could tow up to 3,265 kilograms. 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 featured advanced off-roading equipment, including a Quadra-Lift air suspension and electronic locking rear differential. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 14.1 L/100 km with the V8 to 11.3 L/100 km with the V6, with test results showing similar figures.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered heating and ventilation, and the third-row seat was accessible via a button that tilted and slid the second-row seat. The Telluride provided ample storage, with features like smartphone storage pouches and a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space measured 601 litres behind the third-row seats, expanding to 2,455 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable interior with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. Higher trims added features like ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence. The Grand Cherokee's cargo space measured 1,067 litres behind the back seat, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded. However, rear-seat room was tight for adults with long legs, and the plastic front seatback trim was noted for being uncomfortable.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with menu shortcut buttons and intuitive touchscreen operation. A 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system was standard with SX trim, and the Limited grades added a head-up display.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a comprehensive suite of technology, including 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, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system was available. The Grand Cherokee also offered a front passenger interactive display, providing entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included a range of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision avoidance. The SX trim added front parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, despite a 4-star frontal-impact result.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a robust suite of ADAS, including blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, and a hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022.