2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect, popular from previous generations. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, mostly justifying their price but occasionally reminding occupants of the base trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler required buyers to choose between a classic two-door or a more practical four-door body style. Engine options included a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline-powered V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions. Prices ranged from under $40,000 to over $100,000, excluding destination charges. Our test vehicle, the High Tide model, was based on the Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, featuring options like LED exterior lighting and a body-colour hardtop. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield, making for a unique driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a maximum towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,540 kg with a fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer provided a robust ride, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offered an engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, produced 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. The Wrangler consumed 11.2 L/100 km in combined driving, but our test vehicle averaged 14.0 L/100 km over 700 kilometres. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a rough-and-tumble feel, loud cabin, and touchy brakes. It offered an immersive experience, engaging all senses, and was ideal for off-road adventures and escaping the daily grind.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. Higher trims featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with available massaging, while the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access. The Explorer offered 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler posed challenges for entry and exit, especially with a raised suspension. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, and the driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some challenges due to the spare tire and roof design. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. The Wrangler offered 898 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Explorer's Sync 3 system showed its age, with voice recognition challenges, and would benefit from an upgrade to Sync 4.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, had a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing the open-air driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving.