2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner maintained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, offering a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional, though it showed its age with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. In Canada, the 4Runner was available in Trail and SR5 models, with various TRD and Limited package configurations. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Toyota Safety Sense P driver assistance features.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, adhered to Jeep's design traditions while offering a modern twist. Its styling drew inspiration from the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. The Grand Cherokee was available in multiple trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of luxurious features, from quilted leather seats to a McIntosh audio system. The interior design focused on improving visibility, with a panoramic sunroof adding an airy feel. While rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers, the two-row Grand Cherokee provided ample cargo space, with 1,067 litres behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivered power to a standard 4WD system with a low range. While the engine was reliable, it felt underwhelming in most driving situations, except when off-road, where its suspension excelled. The 4Runner's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds), which was more than most car-based crossovers but less than compact pickups.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 engine, delivering 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V6 had a towing capacity of 2,812 kilograms (6,200 pounds), while the V8 increased it to 3,265 kilograms (7,200 pounds). The Grand Cherokee featured three different 4WD systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering varying levels of off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim, equipped with Quadra-Drive II, excelled in off-road conditions, with features like an electronic locking rear differential and Quadra-Lift air suspension. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was excellent, and it felt more nimble and athletic than its larger sibling, the Grand Cherokee L.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres available with the second-row seats in use. The three-row version, available only with the Limited package, reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window for easy access. While the cabin was functional, it felt less spacious compared to more modern SUVs.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable interior for the driver and front passenger, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. Higher trims offered additional features like ventilated front seats and front seat massagers. The Grand Cherokee's redesign improved visibility, and the available panoramic sunroof added to the cabin's airy feel. Rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers, but the two-row Grand Cherokee offered 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat and 2,004 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The 4Runner's infotainment system covered the basics but felt dated compared to more modern offerings.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, equipped with the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system. It featured a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a configurable Home display. Higher trims included a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, and an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen for the front passenger. The Grand Cherokee also offered a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance features, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars for frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but only three stars for rollover testing. It was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, with only 27% mild-grade steel. New features included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, providing Level 2 hands-on semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to arrive in 2022.