2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, new wheel designs, and enhanced taillights and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level brought a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges, along with a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and was equipped with several packages, bringing its MSRP in Canada to $44,757. Despite the upscale appearance, the Terrain's interior materials and execution did not fully meet expectations for its price range, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended length to accommodate third-row seating, presented an elegant and recognizable Jeep design. The vehicle's exterior featured a seven-slot rectangular grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and modernized lighting. The interior was luxurious, with high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather seating. The Grand Cherokee L's design and tactile quality were reminiscent of a Mercedes, offering a premium feel. The spacious interior, including the third row, provided ample room for passengers, although the air vents were noted to be insufficient in airflow.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's power was adequate for most driving situations, it lacked the acceleration and towing capacity of the previously available 2.0-litre engine. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the vehicle within the torque band, but the Terrain's performance was generally considered dull, with numb steering and a lack of power. The AT4 model offered 20.1 centimetres of ground clearance and was equipped with sport-terrain tires, but its off-road capabilities were limited.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking for the vehicle's size, while the V8 provided a more robust 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings. The vehicle's towing capacity was impressive at 3,265 kilograms, and its off-road capabilities were enhanced with the Trail-Rated badge on the Overland trim.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a spacious interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat provided ample legroom and comfort, and the vehicle featured numerous storage solutions. Cargo space was generous, with 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain's interior was designed for practicality, although some storage areas were not optimally sized.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a sleek interface and physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The vehicle offered ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs as standard in the second row. The panoramic roof and numerous USB ports added to passenger comfort, although the air vents were noted to be insufficient. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was designed for luxury and practicality, with a large central cubby and wireless phone charging.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. The voice recognition system was highly praised for its accuracy and responsiveness. The Tech Package added a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing the vehicle's technology offerings.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's upper trims offered premium features, including massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with adaptive cruise control and other driver aids as standard. The Summit trims included additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition, while the Summit Reserve offered a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, although it earned a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids. The vehicle's safety equipment was comprehensive, although specific crash-test ratings were not available.