2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a fresh addition to the Jeep lineup, distinct from the existing Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its model year designation, the Grand Cherokee L was expected to sell well, largely due to its appealing design. Resembling a smaller version of the luxurious Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, it boasted signature Jeep styling elements like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Available in multiple trims, from Laredo to Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee L offered a range of prices and features, with the Summit trim showcasing quilted leather and real wood trim, though some interior materials fell short of expectations.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 continued to build on its legacy as a popular crossover SUV. Since its introduction in 1996, the RAV4 had evolved significantly, growing in size and sophistication. The 2022 model, part of a 2019 redesign, maintained its position as a top seller in the U.S. market. While its exterior styling blended with the current crossover design trends, closer inspection revealed unique angular details and a distinctive front fascia. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. The Adventure-trim test vehicle highlighted the RAV4's attention to detail, with design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern tying the cabin together.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive or a choice of three 4WD systems, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with certain trims and 4WD, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined. The test vehicle featured the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but with noticeable engine noise. The Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension and Selec-Terrain off-road modes enhanced its off-road capabilities, while the Quadra-Drive II 4WD system offered additional features like an electronic locking differential.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy for FWD models was 30 mpg combined, while AWD models achieved 28-30 mpg combined. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 hp and 40 mpg combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 hp, with an EPA rating of 38 mpg combined and 94 MPGe. The test vehicle, a gasoline Adventure AWD model, provided smooth power delivery and responsive handling, with three drive modes to tailor performance. The RAV4's suspension and AWD system contributed to its car-like handling and off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a comfortable interior, especially in the Summit trim, with features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were small, affecting cooling efficiency. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, with manual sunshades for added convenience. The third row was surprisingly comfortable for adults, with large windows for a good view. Cargo space measured 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.6 cubic feet with all rear seats down.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four adults, with ample storage options and cupholders throughout the cabin. The front row provided generous space, while the second row could accommodate three passengers in a pinch.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The test vehicle included a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, providing excellent sound quality. Additional features included a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with higher trims offering a 9-inch screen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and various connected services. The RAV4 Prime offered additional technology, such as a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, a bird’s-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch head-up display.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. Intersection Collision Assist was standard on Summit models, detecting threats at intersections. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included the Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation.