Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a blacked-out exterior trim that gave the SUV a sporty appearance. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a unique grille design, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching, which was a refreshing alternative to the typical black interior. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable option, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a shorter, sportier two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. The Grand Cherokee's styling was influenced by the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. The interior of the Grand Cherokee was similar to the Grand Cherokee L, with the base Laredo trim offering a basic yet high-quality feel. The Summit Reserve trim, on the other hand, provided a luxurious experience with premium quilted leather seats, a McIntosh audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the gloss black finish on some controls in higher trims could cause reflections, making them harder to use.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 11.5 L/100 km. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms, and it came with Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance.

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, while the V8 could tow up to 3,265 kilograms. 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 was equipped with Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension, providing up to 28.7 centimetres of ground clearance. The Grand Cherokee's fuel consumption ranged from 14.1 L/100 km with the V8 to 11.3 L/100 km with the V6.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped with features like triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain's chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded down.

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

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. The Premier trim offered additional features like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a five-fold improvement in responsiveness. Most trims featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available as an upgrade. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The Grand Cherokee also offered a head-up display, Night Vision system, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. The "front passenger interactive display" was optional, providing entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The Ascent came with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, the system's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with a comprehensive package of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), 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% of the safety cage made of mild-grade steel. The Active Driving Assist system provided Level 2 hands-on semi-autonomous driving assistance, with a hands-free version expected in 2022.