2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer presented a classic SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. This resulted in a traditional design featuring a tall hood, broad shoulders, and trapezoidal wheel arches. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof and unique hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, with laser-etched knurling in the slots, and the wheel centre caps were protected by acrylic glass. The vehicle's body-on-frame architecture allowed for independent suspension, and the use of aluminum and composite materials helped reduce weight. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer offered a luxurious experience with high-quality materials, 24-way power front seats, and Nappa leather upholstery, setting it apart from the standard Wagoneer.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a familiar design, closely resembling its gasoline counterpart. The most noticeable exterior difference was the solid panel in the grille, which redirected airflow, and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 featured trim-specific alloy wheels and "Recharge" badging. The vehicle's Scandinavian design sensibility was evident in its airy and roomy cabin, with harmonious dash elements and clever details like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights. The XC40 Recharge was a genuine luxury SUV, with impeccable assembly and a quality exterior appearance, reflecting Volvo's steady move into the premium automotive category.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately six seconds. The vehicle featured standard four-wheel drive with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering five drive modes and a height-adjustable Quadra-Lift air suspension system. With a maximum ground clearance of 25.4 cm, the Grand Wagoneer could handle various terrains, although its size limited its off-road capabilities. Despite its powerful engine, the Grand Wagoneer was best driven at a leisurely pace due to its bouncy ride and imprecise steering at higher speeds.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge utilized a 78-kWh lithium-ion battery pack powering two electric motors, producing 402 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The vehicle featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing energy efficiency. The XC40 Recharge's low centre of gravity improved handling, and its suspension setup provided a stable and solid driving experience. With a range of 359 km on a full charge and fast-charging capability, the XC40 Recharge offered impressive efficiency. The gasoline XC40 models, in comparison, had slower acceleration times and higher fuel consumption.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered seating for seven or eight, with more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than its competitors. However, it had less front-row space compared to the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The Grand Wagoneer provided 775 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 2,007 litres with the third row stowed. Its maximum towing capacity was 4,472 kg, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight. The vehicle featured a standard sunroof, four-zone climate control, and ample storage bins, although forward visibility was somewhat limited.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, providing additional storage space. Inside, the XC40 Recharge had ample cubbies and nooks, with comfortable front seats and slightly cramped rear seating for a middle passenger. The vehicle offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and had a maximum towing capacity of 907 kg.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The McIntosh audio system and 4G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot enhanced connectivity, while second-row passengers had their own touchscreen for climate control. The Uconnect 5 system, with its Android-based operating system, offered over-the-air updates, although the screen response was occasionally slow.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced technology, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. The vehicle featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, with the Android Automotive operating system providing seamless integration with Google services. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates, although the range display relied on a percentage readout, which could cause range anxiety for some drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came with standard safety features like a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included intersection collision assist and night vision. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with lane centring, with a hands-free version planned for future release.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the gasoline XC40 T5 AWD had a five-star NHTSA rating. The XC40 Recharge's safety features included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The vehicle's top speed was electronically capped at 180 km/h, and its new sensor platform enhanced active safety features. Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other connected vehicles, enhancing safety.