2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, though a new model, retained a familiar design that echoed Jeep's traditional styling cues. It was essentially a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, offering a sporty and compact alternative. Available in various trims such as Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee catered to a wide range of preferences, from simplicity and affordability to luxury and off-road capability. Its design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with options ranging from basic cloth seats in the Laredo to luxurious quilted leather in the Summit Reserve. However, the gloss black finish on some controls in higher trims was prone to reflections, making them harder to use.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The top Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 maintained its upscale feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim in the Signature trim. The seats were new for 2022, offering improved comfort and support. The CX-5's interior was well-equipped, with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the control layout, particularly the Mazda Connect infotainment system, was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 engine delivering 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V6 had a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms, while the V8 could tow up to 3,265 kilograms. Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering varying levels of off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim, equipped with Quadra-Drive II, excelled in off-road conditions with features like an electronic locking rear differential and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 11.3 to 14.1 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. A turbocharged version was available, offering 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. All CX-5 models featured standard all-wheel drive and a revised six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption for the base engine was 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres, while the turbocharged engine consumed 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved, with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter and smoother ride. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) system offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable interior 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, especially for off-roading, and the available panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin. However, rear-seat room was tight for adults with long legs, and the plastic front seatback trim could be uncomfortable. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats with new furnishings that provided better support and comfort. The driving position was sportier, and most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, particularly the Mazda Connect infotainment system, was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available as an upgrade. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The optional front passenger interactive display allowed the passenger to assist the driver and access entertainment options.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. However, the display was not touch-sensitive, and the system lacked natural voice recognition. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with text-messaging support and Mazda Connected Services. The CX-5 offered a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system on higher trims, which provided satisfactory audio quality. SiriusXM satellite radio was also available.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. The Active Driving Assist system provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, with only 27% of the safety cage made of mild-grade steel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with the i-Activsense package of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlighting its strong safety performance.