2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, adding character to its traditionally conservative styling. While maintaining its recognizable boxy profile and rectangular grille, the XC90 introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials like matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined yet understated cabin atmosphere.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, adhered to Jeep's design traditions while drawing inspiration from the classic 1963 Wagoneer. The new two-row Grand Cherokee, a shorter version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, featured a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Jeep offered a variety of trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each catering to different preferences. Inside, the Grand Cherokee's cabin was comfortable and well-appointed, with higher trims offering premium features like quilted leather seats and a McIntosh audio system. The redesign also improved visibility, enhancing driver confidence both on and off the road.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, while the T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines, and the plug-in hybrid's electric mode was limited to low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The Grand Cherokee's towing capacity reached 7,200 pounds with the V8. Jeep offered three 4WD systems, catering to different off-road needs, with the Trailhawk trim featuring advanced off-road capabilities. The Grand Cherokee's eight-speed automatic transmission was paired with a dial-style shifter, which some found tricky to use. Fuel economy varied from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, while the Grand Cherokee's overall ride and handling were more nimble and athletic than its larger sibling, the Grand Cherokee L.

The 2021 Volvo XC90, available in six- or seven-seat configurations, offered average headroom and legroom across its three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The interior felt spacious, thanks to an optional power moonroof and upright roof profile. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was 11.2 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 64.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort for front passengers, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and massagers. Visibility improvements enhanced driver confidence, especially off-road. Rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers, and the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, known for its simplicity and functionality. It included a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a WiFi hotspot. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. The touchscreen was user-friendly, but the text was sometimes difficult to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, offering a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, provided wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and more. The system was responsive and easy to use, with voice recognition and a configurable Home display. The optional front passenger interactive display allowed the passenger to assist the driver and enjoy entertainment options.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered numerous standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Volvo's Pilot Assist driver aid, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an extensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The Grand Cherokee's structure was composed of aluminum and high-strength steel, enhancing safety. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022, allowing for more autonomous driving on approved roads.