2023 Toyota RAV4 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 SUV was available in various trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $51,545 to $78,040, excluding destination charges. The Grand Cherokee's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a black roof option. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of luxurious features, from basic cloth seats in the Laredo trim to premium quilted leather in the Summit Reserve. However, the gloss black finish on some controls in higher trims could be challenging due to reflections.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained its design introduced in 2019, with the Trail trim standing out due to its two-part face and aggressive styling. The RAV4 was available in four trims in Canada, with prices starting just over $35,000 for the LE and exceeding $45,000 for the Limited. The Trail trim featured blacked-out wheels, a faux skid plate, and orange interior accents, but it was more about appearance than off-road capability. The RAV4's interior offered practical storage options, including a shelf running the length of the glove compartment and generous door pockets. While the RAV4's interior was relatively basic, it provided a sense of ruggedness with its lever-style gear shifter and frameless rearview mirror.

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: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each catering to different off-roading needs. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions with features like an electronic locking rear differential, 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 Grand Cherokee's ride quality was praised for its nimbleness and athleticism, with the V6 engine being the preferred choice for its efficiency and performance.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the RAV4's acceleration was not particularly exciting, it offered a balance between performance and noise levels. The Trail trim came with 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, but its off-road capabilities were limited. The RAV4's suspension system, consisting of MacPherson independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, provided a comfortable ride. The RAV4's AWD system, now standard across all trims, included a Snow drive mode for added traction in slippery conditions.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable experience for both driver and front passenger, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard features in Canada. Higher trims offered additional amenities like ventilated front seats and front seat massagers. The Grand Cherokee's redesign improved visibility, making it easier to navigate off-road and in various driving situations. While rear-seat room was somewhat tight for taller passengers, the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. Cargo space in the two-row Grand Cherokee was generous, with 1,067 litres behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 accommodated five passengers, with headroom measuring 958 millimetres in the front and 1,001 millimetres in the rear. Legroom was 1,039 millimetres in the front and 960 millimetres in the back, providing ample space for most passengers. The RAV4's interior featured practical storage solutions, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space was competitive, offering 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded, placing it ahead of some competitors but behind others like the Honda CR-V.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a wealth of 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, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen as standard and a 10.1-inch upgrade available. 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 enjoy their own entertainment options.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard and a 10.5-inch screen for the Limited trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with voice command and connected services like Safety Connect and Service Connect. The Limited trim featured an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system, while the Trail trim retained the base six-speaker stereo. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version available in the Limited trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an impressive array 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. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, enhancing its crash protection capabilities.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 performed well in crash tests, earning a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. The updated Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control allowed the adaptive cruise control system to operate at lower speeds, enhancing its functionality in various driving conditions.