2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body style. 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 trims: 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 like LED exterior lighting and a Gorilla Glass windshield. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position that required some acclimation.

The 2023 Toyota Venza was a midsize crossover SUV with a sleek and sculpted design, reminiscent of a luxury vehicle. Its contoured body and tapered rear roofline gave it a distinctive look, setting it apart from other Toyota models. Inside, the Venza borrowed elements from the RAV4 but elevated the cabin with higher-quality materials and details. The dashboard and centre stack were similar to the RAV4, but the Venza featured more soft-touch surfaces and integrated climate control buttons. The interior was attractively styled, with a level of luxury approaching that of a Lexus. The Venza was praised for its cohesive design, both inside and out, making it one of the best-looking vehicles in Toyota's lineup.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It had 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 was known for its unique driving experience, characterized by loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a rough ride. Despite these traits, it offered an immersive and adventurous driving experience, especially with the top and doors removed.

The 2023 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system, producing a combined 219 horsepower. It had a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Venza accelerated to 100 km/h in just over 7.5 seconds, with seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. The ride favoured comfort over sporty handling, with light steering and adequate handling. The Venza's ride quality was smoother than the RAV4 Hybrid's, providing a comfortable driving experience with enough compliance to absorb most road imperfections.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was rugged, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. However, getting in and out was challenging, especially with a raised suspension. Visibility was a mixed bag, with some areas offering excellent views and others being compromised. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry and exit difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was generous, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, with small trays and compartments.

The 2023 Toyota Venza offered spacious front seats and a feeling of openness, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The rear seats provided ample space for average adults, with headroom being the first limiter. Cargo capacity was limited to 816 litres, less than some competitors. However, the Venza excelled in holding smaller personal items, with a wireless phone charger, well-sized cupholders, and a deep centre armrest bin. The rear passenger area featured materials as nice as the front seats, providing a consistent level of quality throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a premium audio system. The Wrangler included features like 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 2023 Toyota Venza came with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The base LE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XLE and above had a 12.3-inch display. The new infotainment system offered sharp graphics and quick responses. The Venza XLE and Limited trims included a one-year trial of Drive Connect services, functioning as a virtual navigator. The base audio system had six speakers, while the XLE and Limited models featured a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required extra care when driving.

The 2023 Toyota Venza scored five stars in overall and side crash protection from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The XLE added parking sensors, while the Limited trim featured a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The Venza's safety features functioned smoothly, with no false alarms reported.