2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2023 BMW X7

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 an upright profile. 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 center 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 high-end features like 24-way power front seats with memory and massage functions, Nappa leather upholstery, and American Walnut wood trim, setting it apart from the standard Wagoneer.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and recessed headlights, maintaining the oversized kidney grille that sparked mixed reactions. The sides and rear remained largely unchanged, with two design themes available: the chrome-trimmed Design Pure Excellence and the dark-finished M Sport. Inside, the X7's dashboard was refreshed with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The interior boasted high-quality materials, including supple leather and Sensafin synthetic substitutes, though some trim choices caused glare. Despite its weight, the X7's interior was solidly built, offering a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabled the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in six seconds, impressive for its 6,400-pound weight. The vehicle came standard with a Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system, featuring a two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential. The Quadra-Lift air suspension system, also standard, allowed for adjustable ride height, providing up to 10 inches of ground clearance. Despite its power, the Grand Wagoneer was best suited for a leisurely pace, as its ride became bouncy at higher speeds, and the steering was imprecise.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a choice between two engines. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the X7 to reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, generating 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The X7's handling was commendable for its size, with well-managed body roll and a composed ride. While not sporty, it offered a good balance of performance and comfort, though the ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven passengers with standard second-row captain’s chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. However, front-row space was more limited. Cargo space was generous, with 27.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 70.9 cubic feet with the third row stowed. The maximum cargo capacity was 94.2 cubic feet, slightly less than some rivals. The Grand Wagoneer boasted a towing capacity of 9,850 pounds, aided by its weight. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, and ample storage bins.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, particularly in the second row, with a large sunroof and windows enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required some patience as the power-operated middle row moved out of the way. The third row offered adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Cargo space measured 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 90.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat storage was ample, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a McIntosh audio system. Second-row passengers had a 10.25-inch touchscreen for climate control, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Grand Wagoneer also offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen for the front passenger, Amazon Alexa connectivity, and Fire TV for Auto. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, based on Android, supported over-the-air updates. While the system was comprehensive, the screen response was slow, and the instrument cluster graphics were plain.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, had moved many functions to the touchscreen, complicating basic operations. Voice commands were available but interrupted audio playback. The system's reliance on voice controls for navigation and texting was seen as a workaround for the lack of physical buttons and intuitive menus. While the iDrive system had its merits, the absence of physical controls for frequently used features was a drawback.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included a driver-attention monitor, night vision, and traffic-sign recognition. Active Driving Assist combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering, with a hands-free version planned for future release.

The 2023 BMW X7 also lacked crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and parking sensors. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature reduced driver fatigue on long trips, and all safety features performed reliably during testing.