2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body styles. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was standard across all trims. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Willys Sport. The High Tide model, based on the four-door Sport S trim, featured options such as LED exterior lighting and a body-colour hardtop. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and floor drain plugs for easy cleaning.

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a sleek design on the TGNA-K platform, shared with models like the Camry and RAV4. Its modern exterior featured a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures. Inside, the Venza boasted a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials and a layered dash. The standard 8-inch or available 12.3-inch touchscreen was well-placed, and the front seats offered comfort and support. The Venza's interior was designed for a quiet and serene ride, with sound-blocking materials throughout, making it a comfortable choice for families.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but real-world testing showed an average of 14.0 L/100 km. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and rugged feel, but it required frequent fuel stops and had a reputation for being loud and rough on the road.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with the electric motors providing AWD capability. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes, and regenerative braking helped recharge the battery. The Venza offered agile handling and a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families seeking a midsize crossover with efficient performance.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was functional but basic, with durable cloth upholstery and plastic and rubber materials. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some acclimation. Visibility was mixed, with some areas offering excellent views and others being compromised. Rear-seat passengers faced entry and exit challenges, but once inside, they found comfortable accommodations. Cargo space was generous, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza offered a spacious interior with two rows of seating, providing ample headroom and legroom. The second row featured a 60/40-split folding bench seat, allowing for flexible cargo arrangements. The cabin was equipped with convenience features like an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a large glove compartment. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack was located beneath the second-row seats, minimizing its impact on cargo capacity. With the rear seats up, the Venza offered 816 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,560 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen with satellite radio and a premium audio system. The Wrangler also featured remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were part of the Cold Weather Group, extending the open-air driving season.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without the need for charging infrastructure. The Venza's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims added features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a JBL audio system, and a head-up display. Toyota Connected Services provided safety and remote features, enhancing the Venza's appeal as a tech-savvy family vehicle.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered optional safety features through the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less than stellar, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came standard with the Toyota Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Venza also featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver aids, including forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, making it a safer choice for families.