2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with a price tag of $42,083, presented a blend of practicality and style, though it seemed excessive for a RAV4. Despite its fully-loaded status, it maintained a modest appearance, similar to rental car models. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was robust for a compact SUV, but it could have benefited from larger wheels or an Adventure trim level. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was both stylish and functional, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A minor rattle from the license plate was noted, but overall, the interior was practical and user-friendly.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, offered a familiar yet refreshed design. It was available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $37,390 to $63,365. The Grand Cherokee's styling paid homage to Jeep's heritage, with design elements reminiscent of the 1963 Wagoneer. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with a basic yet quality interior in the Laredo trim and a luxurious experience in the Summit Reserve. The gloss black finish on higher trims was noted for its reflective issues, but overall, the Grand Cherokee provided a satisfying blend of style, comfort, and functionality.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup offered standard AWD and several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, providing lively acceleration despite the engine's unpleasant sound at high revs. It achieved an EPA rating of 40 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 39.7 mpg. The CVT and regenerative braking system performed well, and the steering was responsive. However, the tires lacked grip, affecting cornering performance. The RAV4 Hybrid excelled as a daily driver, offering a comfortable ride and decent off-road capability with 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered RWD or 4WD with a choice of a V6 or V8 engine. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the V8 delivered 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee's eight-speed automatic transmission was noted for its fiddly shifter. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Trailhawk trim excelled off-road, with features like Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain driving modes. The V6 was preferred for its efficiency and balance, while the V8 offered a thrilling sound. The Grand Cherokee's ride and handling were praised, with or without the Quadra-Lift suspension.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was decent, with reclining backrests and heated cushions. The dashboard layout was intuitive, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy cargo area of 37.5 cubic feet, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered comfort across all trims, with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers in higher trims. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence. Rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more space. The two-row Grand Cherokee provided 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system, dynamic navigation, and voice recognition. 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 rearview camera 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 options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. 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 an extensive suite of ADAS, with a safety cage composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist were notable features, with the latter offering Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected in 2022.