2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical lines. This approach, while not overly emotive, appealed to those who appreciated simplicity and minimalism. The refreshed front styling aligned the Tiguan with Volkswagen’s larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and standard LED headlights. The interior of the Tiguan Highline R-Line was upscale, with perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting, though the hard plastic in the lower cabin hinted at its mass-market status. The R-Line models added a sportier look, with the Comfortline R-Line Black Edition offering a trendy blacked-out appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a new two-row version. The styling drew inspiration from the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and tapered rear roof pillars. The Grand Cherokee offered a range of trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each delivering on its promise of capability or luxury. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored its three-row sibling, the Grand Cherokee L, with a focus on quality and comfort. The Summit Reserve trim stood out with premium leather seats, a high-end audio system, and a panoramic sunroof, though the gloss black finish on some controls was less functional than the matte-black finish on lower trims.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 221 pound-feet of torque at 1,900 rpm. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, along with Offroad settings. However, with only 19 centimetres of ground clearance, the Tiguan was best suited for well-traveled paths. The Tiguan’s ride and handling were nimble and responsive in normal driving situations, though it lacked the power and performance some might expect from a turbocharged engine.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 293 horsepower and a 5.7-litre V8 engine with 357 horsepower. The V6 provided a tow rating of 2,812 kilograms, while the V8 increased it to 3,265 kilograms. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee’s Trailhawk trim excelled in off-roading, with features like an electronic locking rear differential and Quadra-Lift air suspension. On pavement, the Grand Cherokee felt nimble and athletic, with excellent ride quality. The V6 was the preferred engine for its efficiency and good acceleration, while the V8 offered a thrilling sound but at a higher cost.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a spacious compact crossover, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered an optional third row, though it compromised cargo space. The Highline R-Line trim provided comfortable leather seats with power adjustments and excellent outward visibility. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children alike. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee prioritized comfort and quality, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. Higher trims added features like ventilated seats and massagers. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more space. The two-row Grand Cherokee provided 1,067 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 2,004 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The Highline R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. However, the natural voice recognition was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, with features like a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration. The optional front passenger interactive display allowed the passenger to assist the driver and enjoy their own entertainment options.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard Front Assist and Side Assist, along with available Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance, though the touch-sensing controls were challenging to use. Emergency Assist could bring the Tiguan to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model’s improvements could enhance its score.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an extensive collection of ADAS, with a safety cage composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. Standard features included blind spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and full-speed forward collision warning. Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist were new for 2022, with the latter providing Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to arrive in 2022, allowing for more autonomous driving on approved roads.