2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a blend of rugged styling and practicality. Despite its fully loaded status, it maintained a rental car appearance, lacking the larger alloy wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The RAV4 Hybrid's electronic AWD system was not suited for more demanding off-road tasks, unlike the non-hybrid Trail trim. Its exterior, with a tough yet cute-ute design, could have benefited from bolder wheels. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a stylish and functional cabin, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A rattle from the license plate on the tailgate was noted during the test.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, adhered to Jeep's design traditions while offering a fresh take. Available in various trims, from Laredo to Summit Reserve, it ranged in price from $51,545 to $78,040, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The Grand Cherokee's styling paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Inside, it mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the Summit Reserve trim offering luxurious features like quilted leather seats and a McIntosh audio system. The gloss black finish on higher trims was noted for its reflective issues, while lower trims used a more functional matte-black finish.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided a standard AWD drivetrain, with the rear electric motor contributing to the system. The RAV4 Hybrid offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV, with a whirring noise in EV mode to alert pedestrians. Weighing between 1,680 and 1,720 kilograms, it felt lively due to instant electric-motor torque, though the engine's sound was unpleasant at high revs. Fuel efficiency was impressive, averaging 5.9 L/100 km. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension design and Active Cornering Assist system enhanced ride and handling, though the tires lacked grip in corners.

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 tow rating of 2,812 kilograms, while the V8 increased it 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 Grand Cherokee's 8-speed automatic transmission was noted for its fiddly dial-style shifter. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 11.3 to 14.1 L/100 km, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, with features like Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. The V6 was preferred for its efficiency and good acceleration, while the V8 offered a thrilling sound but at a higher cost.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was decent, with a reclining backrest and heated cushions. The dashboard layout was intuitive, with oversized climate control knobs and easy-to-use infotainment. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy cargo area of 1,059 litres, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered comfort across its trims, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. Higher trims added features like ventilated seats and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, aiding driver confidence, especially off-road. Rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, and the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. Cargo space was 1,067 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The larger screen included SiriusXM satellite radio and various connectivity services. The top-tier system had an 11-speaker JBL audio setup with dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, with features like a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch upgrade available. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration. The optional front passenger interactive display provided entertainment and assistance to the driver.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured advanced driver assistance systems, with a structure composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. Standard safety features included blind spot monitoring and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of this system was expected in 2022.