2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a familiar sight, echoing the design traditions of its predecessors while introducing a new 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 shorter, 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, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a black roof option. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the Summit Reserve trim offering premium features like quilted leather seats and a McIntosh audio system. However, the gloss black finish on some controls was less practical than the matte-black finish on lower trims.

The 2023 Acura MDX, particularly in the Type S trim, aimed to deliver a blend of luxury and performance. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, offering a significant power boost over the standard model. The MDX's design included chicane-design LED lights, 21-inch wheels, and a panoramic moonroof. Inside, the Type S Ultra trim boasted quilted leather seats, a Sport Appearance package, and a leather-wrapped dashboard. However, the MDX's design had some drawbacks, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, which made controls challenging to use. The MDX's performance enhancements, including a solid front suspension stabilizer bar and larger brake rotors, aimed to elevate its driving dynamics, but the overall experience fell short of expectations, with issues like an indecisive transmission and lack of ride compliance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and a 5.7-litre V8 engine delivering 357 horsepower. The V6 engine provided a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms, while the V8 increased it to 3,265 kilograms. Three 4WD systems were available, 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 Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension, making it a formidable off-road performer. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 11.3 to 14.1 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, and an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance upgrades didn't create a cohesive driving experience, with issues like an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, falling short of its official fuel consumption rating.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable interior 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. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, 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.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, with the option to remove the centre section of the second-row seat for easier access to the third row. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't provide the expected support for enthusiastic driving. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, and the cargo area offered 461 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with advanced technology, including a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the optional front passenger interactive display provided entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, and a high-end audio system with 25 speakers. The Platinum Elite and Type S Ultra packages added a head-up display, but the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust safety structure with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including 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 2023 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX received good crash-test ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally issued false warnings.