2022 Subaru Forester vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a familiar sight, echoing the design traditions of its predecessors while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. Jeep's approach to the redesign was unconventional, launching the three-row Grand Cherokee L first, followed by the sportier two-row model. Available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of options to suit different preferences. Its design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and headlights, and a black roof option on select versions. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the Laredo trim providing a basic yet quality interior, while the Summit Reserve offered a plush experience with premium leather seats and a high-end audio system.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, including the new Wilderness trim, was all about practicality and utility. With a starting price of $29,495, the Forester offered a range of trims, each equipped with standard all-wheel drive. The Wilderness model featured a rugged design with a suspension lift, higher ground clearance, and protective cladding, though its appearance was not universally appealing. Inside, the Forester emphasized function over form, with a cabin that combined hard plastic and soft surfaces. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. Despite its homely exterior, the Forester excelled in functionality, offering a well-made interior and improved front styling in most trims.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a choice of a V6 or V8 engine, both paired with a four-wheel drive system. The standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms. The 5.7-litre V8 engine, available in higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing the towing capacity to 3,265 kilograms. Three different 4WD systems were offered, with Quadra-Trac I for light off-roading, Quadra-Trac II for more challenging terrain, and Quadra-Drive II for serious off-roading. The Trailhawk trim featured advanced off-road capabilities, including a Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain driving modes. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 11.3 to 14.1 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All Foresters featured a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply. The Wilderness also doubled the towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. Fuel consumption was estimated at 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, with the test vehicle averaging 9.1 L/100 km. The Forester's engine was adequate at sea level but felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT provided a smooth driving experience, and the Wilderness trim included Subaru's dual-function X-Mode system for improved off-road performance. The Forester excelled on various terrains, though it lacked engine power and had excessive wind noise at higher speeds.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable experience for both driver and passengers, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. Higher trims added 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. Rear-seat room was tight for adults with long legs, and the two-row Grand Cherokee offered 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The Forester's roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms, suitable for a three-person roof tent. Comfort levels were high, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 818 litres without the panoramic sunroof, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard in most trims and a 10.1-inch screen available in higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The optional front passenger interactive display provided entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2022 Subaru Forester included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with available navigation and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The test vehicle's navigation system was helpful, though a breadcrumb function would have been beneficial. The voice recognition system was inconsistent in its effectiveness.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems, with a structure composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. Standard safety features included blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, with a hands-free version expected in 2022.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also included a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating, and it was expected to retain the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating.