2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4, designed with rugged aesthetics in mind, sought to appeal to buyers by emulating the tough exterior of traditional SUVs. This model boasted boxy fender flares, sharply chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end, marking a significant contrast to prior generations and most contemporary compact crossovers. The aggressive styling endeavored to stand out, suggesting the RAV4 was more than just an ordinary family vehicle.

Beneath this visually striking exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, a tried-and-true foundation shared with several of Toyota's other models, including sedans and the Sienna minivan. While the mechanical structure might have evoked a more conventional lineage, the RAV4's unique visual elements like the large rubberized knobs, door handles, and specific interior designs helped set it apart from other vehicles in Toyota's lineup.

Conversely, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee continued a legacy deeply embedded in Jeep tradition. This new model derived much of its heritage from last year’s extended-length Grand Cherokee L, carrying forward the Jeep’s signature design elements. The Grand Cherokee made an impression with its seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a forward-leaning grille and headlights reminiscent of the iconic 1963 Wagoneer.

Jeep launched the Grand Cherokee with a diverse range of trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each tailored to specific consumer needs. Notable for its adaptive offerings, Jeep accommodated every preference from affordable simplicity to high-end luxury, with features scaled accordingly.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee upheld Jeep's reputation for quality, even in its most basic trims. Higher trims indulged passengers with amenities like quilted leather seats, a McIntosh high-end audio system, and a massive panoramic sunroof, contributing to a plush and comfortable ride. Visibility improvements in this model ensured better situational awareness and driving confidence across all scenarios.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a solitary 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine, delivering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Buyers could opt for either standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or an all-wheel drive (AWD) setup. Notably, the RAV4’s engine showcased a 40% thermal efficiency, which is typically seen only in high-performance racing engines. Despite the engine's commendable performance metrics, the rest of the drivetrain failed to keep pace, particularly the transmission which exhibited sluggish gear changes. The steering, while responsive, lacked tactile feedback, reducing the overall driving enjoyment. Although the off-road-focused Adventure and TRD Off-Road models included useful features like torque-vectoring rear axles and increased ground clearance of 8.6 inches, they fell short in suspension articulation and rough terrain handling due to limited approach and departure angles.

In the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, consumers found a robust selection of engines and drivetrain configurations. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, providing a commendable 6,200-pound towing capacity. For those seeking more power, the available 5.7-liter V8 engine offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds.

Jeep offered three different four-wheel-drive systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. Each had its own set of advantages, from the fully automatic Quadra-Trac I suitable for light off-roading to the more advanced Quadra-Drive II, capable of tackling difficult terrains with features like a two-speed transfer case and high torque output to individual rear wheels. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, boasted enhanced off-road capabilities with added features like the Quadra-Lift air suspension, providing up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance, along with options like a forward-facing off-road camera and Selec-Speed off-road cruise control.

The Grand Cherokee’s overall driving experience felt notably nimble and athletic, enhancing its appeal over the larger and heavier Grand Cherokee L. Yet, the advanced Quadra-Lift air suspension system, included in higher trims, somewhat dulled the driving character that made the Grand Cherokee distinct, introducing potential concerns for long-term maintenance and complexity.

With its upright roofline, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 provided ample headroom for both front and rear passengers, although rear legroom lagged behind some competitors. The front seats in the TRD Off-Road trim were notably comfortable, while the rear seats were less accommodating with hard, flat cushions, making extended journeys a potentially uncomfortable ordeal. Cargo capacity stood at 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, which was generous but still shy of leaders in its class. The storage options in the front were functional, with oversized knobs and well-placed controls, although the overall console storage could have been more efficient.

In the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, front-seat comfort came standard across all trims, with higher trims featuring luxurious touches like massage functions, heated and ventilated seats, and superior materials. Visibility improvements were evident, especially for off-roading scenarios, and the panoramic sunroof added to the cabin’s airy feel. Rear-seat space was slightly constricted for taller passengers, and while durable, the plastic front seatback trim didn’t favor comfort. Cargo space in the two-row Grand Cherokee measured at 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with seats folded down, offering a practical balance between passenger comfort and storage capacity.

Comparatively, the Grand Cherokee’s cargo space was marginally more accommodating than the RAV4’s, particularly with the rear seats folded down, which might be a deciding factor for buyers prioritizing cargo volume.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with standard infotainment features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with an 8-inch option available on Limited trims, and a 9-inch screen exclusively for the RAV4 Prime. The infotainment system, although user-friendly and functional with well-placed shortcut buttons, lacked the flair and advanced features sought by tech enthusiasts. Some higher trim add-ons included a JBL premium audio system and multiple USB ports for convenience.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a technological fortress. It featured Jeep’s next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on most trims, upgradeable to a 10.1-inch display starting from the Limited trim. Standard technology included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a slew of connected services. Higher trims offered advanced features like a comprehensive head-up display, a Night Vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration. The optional 10.25-inch touchscreen for the front passenger was a standout, providing unique entertainment and functional capabilities.

In summary, the Grand Cherokee excelled in offering advanced technology and numerous infotainment options, making it a strong contender for tech-savvy consumers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was recognized with a “Top Safety Pick” rating by the IIHS, achieving top grades in all crash tests and a “Superior” rating for its front-crash prevention technology. However, it did not secure the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating due to varying performance in headlight evaluations. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 a five-star overall rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover tests, and five stars in side impact tests. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 package included features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams, with additional higher-trim options like blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.

For the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, detailed crash test ratings were not yet available, but it offered an extensive array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This included features like Intersection Collision Assist, Active Driving Assist with adaptive cruise control, and Lane Centering Assistance. Jeep utilized a considerable amount of high-strength steel and aluminum in the vehicle’s construction, enhancing its structural integrity.

Both vehicles provided robust safety features, but the Grand Cherokee introduced newer technological advancements that might offer an edge once crash test ratings are published.