2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior that belied its spacious interior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its sporty and modern design. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard design emphasized cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was available in various themes, offering a luxurious feel that matched its exterior.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer shared its frame with the standard Wagoneer, presenting a traditional SUV look with a tall hood and broad shoulders. It distinguished itself with a black roof, model-specific hood, and a forward-leaning grille with laser-etched knurling. The Grand Wagoneer featured a new body-on-frame architecture, independent suspension, and weight-saving materials like an aluminum hood. Inside, it offered high-end materials and convenience features, including 24-way power front seats and Nappa leather upholstery. The interior was marked by subtle differences from the Wagoneer, such as high-placed seat controls and a "Grand Wagoneer" dashboard inscription.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by 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), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system allowed for torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in about six seconds. The Grand Wagoneer featured a standard Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential. It also included the Quadra-Lift air suspension system, offering adjustable ride height for various driving conditions. Despite its powerful engine, the Grand Wagoneer was best driven at a leisurely pace due to its size and weight, which affected its agility and ride comfort.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating arrangements with comfortable front-row bucket seats and a second row with a removable centre section. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers. The third row was suitable for smaller passengers, with USB connections available in all rows. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate featured a "Walk Away Close" function and hands-free access, enhancing convenience. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes available to suit different moods.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the seating configuration. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than some competitors, though front-row space was more limited. The Grand Wagoneer provided 775 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 2,667 litres with all rear seats folded. It had a maximum towing capacity of 4,472 kilograms, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its additional weight. The Grand Wagoneer included a standard sunroof, four-zone climate control, and large storage bins, though forward visibility was somewhat restricted.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured an impressive array of technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, offering a customizable and user-friendly interface. The MDX included Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims offered a head-up display and surround-view camera system. The CabinTalk feature allowed communication with rear passengers, and over-the-air updates ensured the MDX's software remained current.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and a McIntosh audio system. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two phones. Second-row passengers had their own touchscreen, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system added additional screens. The Grand Wagoneer used the Uconnect 5 system, featuring an Android-based operating system and over-the-air updates. While the system offered extensive functionality, some users found the screen response slow and the instrument cluster graphics plain.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The MDX featured a low-speed braking control system, collision mitigation throttle control, and the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It included standard safety features such as a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included intersection collision assist, night vision, and driver-assistance systems. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with lane centring, with a hands-free version planned for future release.