2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

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. This model was launched with a variety of trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $51,545 to $78,040, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The Grand Cherokee's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of luxurious options, from basic cloth seats in the Laredo to premium leather and high-end audio systems in the Summit Reserve. Despite some issues with reflective controls in higher trims, the Grand Cherokee was praised for its style, comfort, and purpose.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, on the other hand, embraced a rugged, no-nonsense design with its boxy shape and iconic seven-slot grille. Available in two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler offered a variety of top options for open-air exploration, including a unique Dual-Door Group for enhanced visibility. The Wrangler's interior was practical, with easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward design. However, storage space was limited, and the rear seat was a tight fit for three passengers. The Wrangler's cargo space was also modest, but it offered several options for natural air conditioning, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top. Charging points were plentiful, with USB ports and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a 4WD drivetrain and offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and a 5.7-litre V8 engine with 357 horsepower. The V6 had a towing capacity of 2,812 kg, while the V8 could tow up to 3,265 kg. Three different 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 advanced off-road capabilities, including an electronic locking rear differential and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. Fuel consumption estimates ranged from 11.3 to 14.1 L/100 km, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Grand Cherokee was praised for its nimble handling and excellent ride quality, though the V6 was preferred for its efficiency and balance.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a standard 3.6-litre V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a powerful 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower, while the Wrangler 4xe offered a plug-in hybrid option with a 17.3-kWh battery pack. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer cases. The Rubicon 392 was particularly impressive, with a crawl ratio of 58:1 and a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. However, the 392's brakes and steering were criticized for their lack of precision. The Wrangler's on-road performance was less refined than its off-road prowess, but it remained a capable and versatile SUV.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable experience for both driver and passengers, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard features in Canada. Higher trims offered additional luxuries such as ventilated seats and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved in the redesigned model, enhancing driver confidence in various situations. While rear-seat space was somewhat limited, the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom and cargo capacity. The two-row Grand Cherokee provided 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, but rear seating was cramped, especially in the two-door model. Storage for small items was limited, with a flat dash and small glove box and centre console. The Wrangler's cargo space was 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded, slightly less than its competitor, the Bronco. The Wrangler offered several options for open-air driving, including removable tops and doors. The Sky One-Touch power soft top was a convenient but costly option for those seeking an easy way to enjoy the outdoors. The Wrangler also provided ample charging points, with USB ports and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens for information and entertainment. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.1-inch screen available in higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. The Grand Cherokee also offered a front passenger interactive display, allowing the passenger to assist the driver and enjoy their own entertainment options.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch screen available in higher trims. The system was initially complex but intuitive once familiar, offering off-road pages with detailed information about the vehicle's performance. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, but the Wrangler lacked some advanced tech features found in the Grand Cherokee. The Wrangler's tech focused on practicality, with a forward-facing camera for off-road trails and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with an impressive array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. The SUV's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, enhancing crash protection. Active Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. A hands-free version of this system was expected to be available in 2022.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were less comprehensive, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control as standard. Blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control were standard only on the top trims, with other models requiring an option package. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with some trims receiving Poor ratings for headlights and a three-star rollover rating.