2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, adventure-ready persona, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that transitioned to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its truck-based origins, sharing its underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma. This design choice was not due to stubbornness but rather a strategic decision by Toyota, which already had the Highlander for family duties, allowing the 4Runner to cater to off-road enthusiasts. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all functional design elements that emphasized its off-road capabilities. Inside, the 4Runner's dashboard layout was a throwback to the late 2000s, reflecting its last full redesign in 2009.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a blend of toughness and luxury, extending the classic Grand Cherokee style by more than 30 centimetres. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured a bold design with blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels. The interior of upper trims was impressive, with high-quality materials and a polished black dash that hid an optional touchscreen. Despite some hard plastics, the cabin felt justified for its price range. The Grand Cherokee L's design was a mix of classic Jeep elements and modern touches, ensuring it remained stylish and ready for the future.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. While reliable, this engine felt dated and underwhelming in most driving situations, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll, but it excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed rough terrain effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models offered additional off-road features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms, more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine delivered 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but it was considered lackluster. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for better performance and towing capacity of up to 3,265 kilograms. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, especially with air suspension, and its steering was adequate for its class. The SUV offered three 4WD systems, with Quadra-Drive II featuring a low-range transfer case and LSD. The air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance, making it a capable off-road vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres behind the second row. The three-row model reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres, with 1,311 litres behind the second row and 254 litres behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-operated rear window. While not the most spacious SUV, it provided ample storage for gear.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided more legroom for second-row passengers, with standard captain's chairs and optional 60/40 bench seats. The third row was best suited for children, and a power liftgate was standard from the Altitude trim. The Grand Cherokee L offered 481 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded. Its cargo capacity was among the best in its class.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. While not the most advanced system, it was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, making it user-friendly, especially for those who appreciated its analog driving style.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's technology offerings were more advanced, with the Laredo and Altitude trims featuring an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument panel. Higher trims had a 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation and Uconnect 5. The Grand Cherokee L offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen with various functions. The 19-speaker McIntosh sound system was available on upper trims, providing a premium audio experience.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. It received four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and three stars for rollover testing.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for models built after May 2023. It scored five stars in most National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tests, except for rollover, where it received four stars. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, rear park assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking, 360-degree cameras, and night vision.