2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from the Honda Pilot, with enhanced proportions including a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance for a more elegant appearance. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection controls added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was available in various colour themes, enhancing its luxury appeal.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while a new model, retained the classic Jeep design elements, drawing inspiration from the 1963 Wagoneer. It was a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, offering a sportier and more compact design. The Grand Cherokee's styling included a forward-leaning grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a black roof option. Inside, the Grand Cherokee shared similarities with the Grand Cherokee L, offering a basic yet high-quality interior in the Laredo trim, while the Summit Reserve trim provided a luxurious experience with premium leather seats and a high-end audio system. The Grand Cherokee's design focused on improving visibility and comfort, with features like a panoramic sunroof and enhanced sightlines.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) as standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup for improved handling, and the vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its solid ride feel and smooth transmission, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with 293 horsepower and a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine with 357 horsepower. The V6 provided a tow rating of 2,812 kg, while the V8 increased towing capacity to 3,265 kg. The Grand Cherokee featured three different 4WD systems, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most advanced off-roading capabilities. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, with features like an electronic locking rear differential and Quadra-Lift air suspension. The Grand Cherokee's 8-speed automatic transmission was paired with a dial-style shifter, which some found challenging to use. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 11.3 to 14.1 L/100 km, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile interior space with comfortable seating for the first two rows and a third row suitable for smaller passengers. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The MDX provided between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 2,690 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate included features like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access, enhancing convenience. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, adding to the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. Higher trims offered additional features like ventilated front seats and front seat massagers. The Grand Cherokee's redesign improved visibility, and the available panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin. Rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, and the two-row Grand Cherokee offered 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 2,004 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System in higher trims, offering 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. All MDX models came with a 12.3-inch infotainment system and a digital instrument panel. Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates. The Platinum Elite trim included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available in higher trims. The Grand Cherokee offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The optional front passenger interactive display allowed the passenger to assist the driver and access entertainment options. A 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system were also available.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features included collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in heavy traffic and city driving.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was fortified with advanced driver assistance systems and a structure composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. The Grand Cherokee included standard blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, and a hands-free version was expected in 2022. Intersection Collision Assist was a unique feature, offering front cross-traffic warning at intersections.