2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2021 Lexus RX

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with a floating roof. The interior was luxurious, with sumptuous seating and perforated leather upholstery, although the center console design was considered bland and somewhat dated. The RX was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, each offering different configurations and features. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for larger wheels and additional upgrades. The F Sport Appearance package added sporty elements like unique wheels and performance dampers. Inside, the RX offered a range of standard and optional features, including power-adjustable seats and various leather upholstery options, though the infotainment system was criticized for its dated appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer shared its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer, resulting in traditional SUV styling with a tall hood and broad shoulders. It was distinguished by a black roof, model-specific hood, and grille with laser-etched knurling. The Grand Wagoneer featured a new body-on-frame architecture with independent suspension and weight-saving materials like an aluminum hood and doors. The interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and convenience features such as 24-way power front seats with massage and heated/ventilated seating. Nappa leather upholstery was standard, with an option for higher-grade Palermo leather. The Grand Wagoneer also included unique interior touches like seat controls on the doors and a dashboard inscription. Overall, it offered a more traditional and upscale SUV experience compared to the Lexus RX.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 engine with three electric motors, producing 308 horsepower. The RX offered a comfortable and smooth ride, with tuning adjustments enhancing its dynamic handling. The F Sport model added performance features like adaptive variable suspension and sport seats. The RX achieved a top speed of 124 mph and accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 achieving up to 23 mpg combined, while the hybrid models offered better fuel economy.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was equipped with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, generating 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. It featured a standard four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case and electronic limited-slip differential. The Grand Wagoneer also included a height-adjustable Quadra-Lift air suspension system, providing up to 10 inches of ground clearance. Despite its powerful engine, the Grand Wagoneer was best suited for a stately pace, as its size and weight made it feel ungainly at higher speeds. It could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in six seconds and offered impressive off-road capabilities, although its size limited its trail performance.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and six or seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, while the third row was tight. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The three-row version offered even less cargo space. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer provided seating for seven with standard captain's chairs or eight with an optional bench seat. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Cargo space was generous, with 27.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 70.9 cubic feet with the third row stowed. The Grand Wagoneer had a maximum towing capacity of 9,850 pounds, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight. It featured a standard sunroof, four-zone climate control, and ample storage bins.

The 2021 Lexus RX came with standard technology features, including dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a premium Mark Levinson sound system. The infotainment system was functional but dated, with a touchpad controller that took up center console space. The RX lacked wireless smartphone integration.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and wireless smartphone integration. It featured a McIntosh audio system, a 4G-LTE WiFi hotspot, and optional rear-seat entertainment. The Grand Wagoneer used the Uconnect 5 system, offering over-the-air updates and Amazon Alexa connectivity. While the system was feature-rich, it was occasionally slow to respond, and the instrument cluster graphics were plain.

The 2021 Lexus RX received the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated it four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. While comprehensive, the safety features lacked the advanced hands-free systems found in some competitors.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came with standard safety features like a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included night vision and traffic-sign recognition. Active Driving Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering, with a hands-free version planned for future release.