2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator stood out by not mimicking its competitors' styles. Instead, it adopted the successful design language of the larger Navigator, resulting in a sharp-looking vehicle with crisp lines and chrome accents. Inside, the Aviator differentiated itself from its Ford counterpart with a luxurious cabin featuring soft-touch materials, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and a piano button shifter. The soothing chimes and massaging front seats added to the air of class and comfort.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. The new model featured a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars, reminiscent of the classic 1963 Wagoneer. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of trims from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, with premium materials and advanced features like a McIntosh audio system and panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator came with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring trims featured a plug-in hybrid version of the same engine, boosting output to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque, with a 21-mile electric-only range. The Aviator excelled on highways and in suburban settings but struggled with body roll and maneuverability in tight spaces.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V6 had a tow rating of 6,200 pounds, while the V8 increased it to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, with the Quadra-Drive II system providing the best off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was excellent, and it felt more nimble and athletic than its larger sibling, the Grand Cherokee L.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The second-row captain's chairs and digital control panel added to the comfort and functionality. However, the power-button door releases raised concerns about potential issues if the battery died.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior was comfortable across all trims, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, and the panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, but the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom and cargo space.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital instrument panel and optional head-up display provided clear and crisp graphics.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, with features like a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and over-the-air updates. The optional front passenger interactive display and McIntosh audio system added to the tech appeal.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator came with the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and front-and-rear parking sensors. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added reverse automatic braking, self-parking functionality, and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator earned top marks from the NHTSA and IIHS, including a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an extensive collection of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist for Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The new Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of high-strength steel and aluminum, promising improved crash protection. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to arrive in 2022.