Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer presented a classic SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. It featured traditional styling elements such as a tall hood, broad shoulders, and trapezoidal wheel arches, giving it an upright profile. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof, a unique hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, with laser-etched knurling in the slots, and the wheel centre caps were protected by acrylic glass. The vehicle's body-on-frame architecture allowed for independent suspension, and the use of aluminum and composite materials helped reduce weight. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer offered a luxurious experience with high-quality materials, 24-way power front seats, and Nappa leather upholstery, setting it apart from the standard Wagoneer.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary improvements seen in previous generations, maintaining its attractive design. The 2026 model carried forward changes from 2024, including new sheet metal and chassis construction. The most noticeable update was the frameless grille with a curved wing bar, creating a visual connection with the headlights. The black-plastic cladding around the wheel arches included aerodynamic air inlets and outlets, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid balanced rugged utility with refined comfort, featuring soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The Canadian model came with black leather upholstery, and the cabin included chrome-trimmed power window switches and "Hybrid"-stitched floor mats. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof, contributing to a comfortable and airy atmosphere.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately six seconds. The vehicle featured standard four-wheel drive with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering five drive modes and a height-adjustable Quadra-Lift air suspension system. With a maximum ground clearance of 25.4 cm, the Grand Wagoneer could handle various terrains, although its size limited its off-road capabilities. The cabin was quiet, and the air suspension provided a smooth ride, but the vehicle felt ungainly at higher speeds.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid offered a more efficient powertrain with a 2.5-litre Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine paired with an 118 hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 hp. The hybrid powertrain provided quicker and smoother acceleration compared to the gas-only Crosstrek. The Crosstrek Hybrid utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions and regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid recorded 7.6 L/100 km, slightly above the estimated 6.5 L/100 km. The Crosstrek's AWD system, combined with X-Mode traction management, offered better performance on variable terrain compared to competitors. The steering was light but precise, and the vehicle exhibited less body lean than previous models.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered seating for seven with standard second-row captain’s chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It provided more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Cargo space was generous, with 775 litres behind the third row and 2,007 litres with the third row stowed. The Grand Wagoneer had a maximum towing capacity of 4,472 kg, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, and large storage bins, although forward visibility was somewhat limited.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon previous hybrid models by offering more horsepower and cargo space. The 2026 model provided 527 litres of cargo volume behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded. The fuel tank remained a generous 63 litres, allowing for long-distance travel without frequent refuelling. The Crosstrek Hybrid offered ample rear-seat space with 926 mm of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, but the vehicle included a wireless charging pad and deep door pockets.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The McIntosh audio system and 4G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot enhanced connectivity, while second-row passengers enjoyed a 10.25-inch touchscreen for climate control. An optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Uconnect 5 system, with its Android-based operating system, offered over-the-air updates, although the screen response was slow, and the instrument cluster graphics were plain.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but the infotainment system lagged behind competitors. The software was slow, and the screen was prone to fingerprints. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, many controls were managed via touchscreen buttons, which could be frustrating. The Crosstrek Hybrid included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, but the navigation map could not display Google Maps from a phone projection.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included intersection collision assist, driver-attention monitor, night vision, and traffic-sign recognition. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring, with plans for a hands-free version in the future.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2026, but the 2025 model received mixed ratings. Subaru added side-curtain airbags to address safety concerns. The Crosstrek Hybrid included the full range of EyeSight advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and a surround-view camera. However, Subaru did not offer a semi-autonomous driving system comparable to competitors.