2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, with its blunt and bulbous nose giving it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this look became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling included black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the design. Despite its 20-inch alloy wheels, the flared quarter panels seemed overwhelming. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing suffered from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges added to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained a classic Jeep design while introducing modern elements. It was a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, offering a range of trims from Laredo to Summit Reserve. The Grand Cherokee's styling paid homage to the 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and tapered roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with a basic yet quality interior in the Laredo trim and luxurious features in the Summit Reserve. The gloss black finish on higher trims was prone to reflections, but the matte-black finish on lower trims was more functional.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, reducing its total output to 243 horsepower. It achieved a fuel efficiency rating of 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. While this was an improvement over the previous generation, the Highlander Hybrid's performance was less engaging. The engine sounded strained during acceleration, and the steering felt lifeless. The regenerative brakes were an improvement, but the SUV's handling was hampered by its weight and body movement.

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 provided a towing capacity of 2,812 kg, while the V8 increased it to 3,265 kg. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee's fuel consumption ranged from 11.3 L/100 km with the V6 to 14.1 L/100 km with the V8. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, while the V6 engine was preferred for its efficiency and balance.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with heated and ventilated seats. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable and lacked legroom. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres, but storage solutions were limited.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort across all trims, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. Visibility was improved, and the panoramic sunroof added an airy feel. Rear-seat legroom was tight, but cargo space was ample, with 1,067 litres behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and a head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, but the sound system's quality varied. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror were notable features.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration were standard. The optional front passenger interactive display provided entertainment and assistance.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with features like automatic high beams and dynamic radar cruise control. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance had some inconsistencies.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured advanced driver assistance systems, including blind spot monitoring and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The new structure used high-strength steel, promising improved crash protection, though official ratings were pending.