2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in its rear design. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic-inspired design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and user-friendly buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee embraced its heritage while introducing modern touches. The new two-row Grand Cherokee, a shorter version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, maintained Jeep's design traditions with its seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. The styling drew inspiration from the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of trims, from the basic Laredo with cloth seats to the luxurious Summit Reserve with premium leather, a McIntosh audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior design focused on quality and comfort, with improved visibility and a sense of luxury across all trims.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, featured a more robust engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all trims except the entry-level LX FWD. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, and a sporty driving experience, though it lacked the refinement of some competitors.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine and a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,812 kg. The V8 delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 3,265 kg. The Grand Cherokee featured three 4WD systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, catering to different off-roading needs. The Trailhawk trim, equipped with Quadra-Drive II, excelled in off-road conditions, while the Grand Cherokee's overall ride quality was excellent, offering a nimble and athletic feel. The V6 was the preferred engine for its efficiency and good acceleration, while the V8 provided a thrilling driving experience at a higher cost.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though smaller in size, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided comfort with perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. However, the Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded down and 868 litres behind the back seat. The smart liftgate technology added convenience, allowing hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee prioritized comfort and quality across its trims. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with higher trims offering ventilated front seats, massagers, and more. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence, especially during off-roading. Rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. The two-row Grand Cherokee provided 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the seats folded down, making it accommodating for luggage and gear.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, it lacked some advanced features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring 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. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available as an upgrade. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system were among the highlights. The optional front passenger interactive display added convenience and entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. The Active Driving Assist system provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, enhancing safety. While crash-test results were pending, the new model was expected to perform better than its predecessor.