2023 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a familiar sight, echoing the design traditions of its predecessors while introducing a sportier 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 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 features, from basic cloth seats in the Laredo trim to premium quilted leather and high-end audio systems in the Summit Reserve. Despite some reflections on higher trim controls, the Grand Cherokee provided a satisfying blend of style, comfort, and purpose.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia made a bold statement with its redesigned exterior, drawing inspiration from the Toyota Tundra pickup truck. The Sequoia's interior shared similarities with the Tundra, featuring an industrial theme with leather, wood, and metallic finishes in the upscale Capstone trim. The Capstone's dashboard was dominated by a 14-inch infotainment system, and the interior boasted a luxurious cream white-over-black colour scheme. The Sequoia lineup included TRD Off-road, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone trims, with prices starting at $79,335 and reaching $95,335. While the Sequoia offered impressive off-road capabilities, its ground clearance and approach angles were less capable than the previous model. The TRD Off-road trim provided a more affordable option with off-road features, while the Capstone trim offered a luxurious experience with advanced technology and comfort features.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a V6 and a V8 engine, both paired with a four-wheel drive (4WD) 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 optional 5.7-litre V8 engine delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing the towing capacity to 3,265 kilograms. Three different 4WD systems were available, including 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, featuring an electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain driving modes. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was commendable, with the V6 engine providing a balance of efficiency and performance.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia featured a hybrid powertrain with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and an electric motor/generator. This setup produced 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, offering improved towing capacity of 4,137 kilograms. The Sequoia's fuel efficiency was enhanced, with a rating of 11.7 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Sequoia offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. However, the Sequoia's ride quality was affected by its suspension, which could be busy and jittery in certain modes. The steering was slow, and the regenerative braking system felt unresponsive at times. Despite these drawbacks, the Sequoia's hybrid powertrain provided robust power and improved fuel economy.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable interior for both the driver and passengers, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard features in Canada. Higher trims offered additional amenities such as 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 tight for taller passengers, the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. The two-row Grand Cherokee provided 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 2,004 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia excelled on open roads, offering a quiet cabin with comfortable front seats and a JBL premium audio system. The Sequoia's interior featured a triple-zone automatic climate control system and heated and ventilated seats. However, the second-row captain's chairs did not slide, limiting flexibility for third-row passengers. The third-row seat was less comfortable due to its high floor and low roof. Cargo space was limited, with only 325 litres available behind the third-row seat, expandable to 1,387 litres with the seats folded. The Sequoia's hybrid powertrain compromised overall utility, reducing cargo capacity compared to the previous model.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a 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 or 10.1-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration and a McIntosh high-end audio system. The Grand Cherokee also featured a front passenger interactive display, allowing the passenger to assist the driver and access entertainment options.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia featured a new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen in the base trim and a 14-inch touchscreen in higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with connected services and an Intelligent Assistant. The Sequoia's technology package included a 10-inch head-up display, surround-view camera system, and a digital rearview mirror. However, the infotainment system experienced some issues, such as glare on the display and inconsistent Bluetooth pairing. The Sequoia's parking sensors and automatic rear braking system effectively prevented collisions.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was fortified with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a robust safety structure composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. The Grand Cherokee featured blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Active Driving Assist 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, allowing for more autonomous driving on approved roads.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Sequoia also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems enhanced highway driving, while the parking sensors and automatic braking system effectively prevented collisions. Although crash test ratings were not available, the Sequoia's platform shared with the Tundra, which received high ratings from the IIHS.