2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Compass, despite receiving exterior styling updates and new wheel designs, retained much of its familiar look since its last redesign in 2017. It was often likened to a smaller version of the Grand Cherokee. The test vehicle featured attractive 19-inch multi-spoke wheels with a dark sparkly finish, enhancing its upscale appearance. Inside, the Compass made a stronger case as a premium SUV, especially in the Trailhawk Elite specification. It boasted a new dashboard design, updated digital instrumentation, and infotainment systems, along with soft-touch surfaces and luxury-grade leather seats, which significantly elevated its sophistication.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a new vehicle in its own right, was a two-row version of the previous year's extended-length Grand Cherokee L. It adhered to Jeep's design traditions while offering a shorter and sportier profile. The Grand Cherokee's styling drew inspiration from the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, it mirrored the '21 Grand Cherokee L, with a basic yet quality interior in the Laredo trim and luxurious features in the Summit Reserve. The Grand Cherokee's design aimed to improve visibility, and it succeeded, especially during off-roading, where enhanced sightlines and camera technologies boosted driver confidence.

The 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 172 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. This "Tigershark" engine, however, lacked the power to compete with other SUVs, and a turbocharger would have been beneficial, especially for mountain adventures. The Compass featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, with a six-speed automatic for front-wheel-drive models. The drivetrain, though, was criticized for its reluctance to downshift and its busy character. The Compass Trailhawk Elite, with its 20.6 cm ground clearance, was capable of light off-roading, while the Trailhawk trim offered enhanced off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a V6 and a V8 engine, with the V6 generating 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and the V8 delivering 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The Grand Cherokee's towing capacity ranged from 2,812 kg with the V6 to 3,265 kg with the V8. Three different 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II being the most capable for off-roading. The Grand Cherokee's 8-speed automatic transmission, though occasionally tricky to operate, contributed to its overall performance. Fuel consumption estimates varied, with the V6 being more efficient than the V8. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, showcasing its impressive capabilities.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned as a smaller compact SUV, offered enough space for four adults and their luggage. The Trailhawk Elite trim elevated its premium appeal with features like 12-way power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. The redesigned dashboard and Uconnect 5 infotainment system added to the Compass's sophistication. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 770 litres behind the rear seat and 1,693 litres with the back seat folded down.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort 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. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence. Rear-seat room was somewhat tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 1,067 litres behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the back seat folded down.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was five times faster than its predecessor. It came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen as standard, with a 10.1-inch option available. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity for two devices. Additional features included a navigation system, WiFi hotspot, and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. The voice recognition system was generally accurate, though it had some limitations.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, offering a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 system, with its 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, provided a responsive and customizable experience. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Grand Cherokee also offered a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system. The optional front passenger interactive display added convenience and entertainment options.

The 2022 Jeep Compass saw improvements in safety features and driver assistance technologies. Starting from the Trailhawk grade, it included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Highway Assist was expected to be added later in the model year. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were generally effective, though some issues were noted. Crash test results were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with an impressive array of advanced driver assistance systems. Its structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, enhancing safety. The Grand Cherokee featured blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be introduced in 2022.