2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs 2022 Acura MDX

When discussing the look and feel of these two SUV models, the 2022 Acura MDX presented a distinct elegance and sporty edge. Having introduced the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, Acura built this new generation MDX on a dedicated platform distinct from previous models' Honda Pilot platform. With tweak to proportions providing a longer wheelbase, increased overall length, and a wider body and track, the MDX boasted enhanced elegance, adding over four inches to the critical dash-to-axle distance.

Visually, the 2022 MDX came equipped with Jewel Eye LED headlights underlined by linear LED daytime running lights, and bigger wheels compared to previous models—19 x 8.5 inches for the base, and 20 x 9 inches for the higher trims. This design offered a sportier and more modern aesthetic. The MDX was crafted in East Liberty, Ohio, exuding craftsmanship and quality in each detail.

Interior-wise, the MDX was modernized with an expansive, layered dashboard, enhancing the perceived interior space. Authentic materials such as natural wood, genuine aluminum, and real leather filled the cabin, conveying luxury. Despite a somewhat unconventional layout of the controls, the center stack housed an efficient array of buttons and touchpads, augmented by a 12.3-inch non-touchscreen infotainment screen strategically placed for driver safety. Comfort was a priority in the front seats, which were well-sized for American occupants, and the steering wheel provided a firm grip with useful control features.

On the other side, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe retained the brand's iconic seven-slot grille, blending tradition with modern technology. Active grille shutters and a distinctive forward rake channeled the spirit of the Wagoneer, giving a nod to Jeep’s legacy. The 4xe model, offered only as a two-row, five-passenger SUV, had a range of trims like base 4xe, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, adorned with distinctive surf blue tow hooks at the front and blue accents on Trailhawk and other trail-rated trims.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee 4xe defied its rugged roots to provide a comfortable, near-upscale ambiance. The Overland trim we tested, featuring leather seats, wood and metal accents, and bronze stitching, created a plush environment. However, noticeable hard plastic materials detracted from the overall premium feel. Gloss black areas added a touch of sophistication but succumbed to fingerprints and glare. Nevertheless, the practical aspects such as the air suspension contributed to its appeal.

The 2022 Acura MDX equipped itself with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The power was transmitted through a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with the base models offering front-wheel drive and the optional Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available for enhanced performance. The SH-AWD distributed up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels and executed torque vectoring, pushing the MDX elegantly into corners.

Enhancements in suspension with a double-wishbone front setup and revised rear multi-link suspension improved ride quality significantly. Bigger, stronger disc brakes also provided sure-footed braking performance. Overall, the MDX felt rigid and sturdy with no body flex, an attribute that inspired driver confidence.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine coupled with a 400-volt, 17-kWh battery pack, generated an impressive 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the capabilities of Jeep’s V8 engine. This powerhouse boasted an eight-speed automatic transmission and achieved a substantial 56 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), with a total driving range of up to 470 miles.

The Grand Cherokee 4xe came equipped with Hybrid, Electric, and eSave modes, allowing varied driving experiences. Regenerative braking, with a Max Regen setting, enabled efficient energy recovery. Off-road, the 4xe, equipped with Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II systems, could tackle rugged terrains, benefiting from immediate torque delivery. Yet, its maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds lagged behind V6 and V8 models.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled as a versatile three-row SUV, comfortably seating passengers in the first two rows. The innovative second row with a removable center section and sliding design balanced legroom between occupants, while the third row catered best to smaller passengers. Cargo accessibility was superior, with up to 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row down, and up to 95 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. Functional features like the Hands-Free Access tailgate and customizable Iconic Drive Lighting added convenience and charm.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, designed as a two-row SUV, accommodated passengers with ample space, transitioning from 37.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity to 70.8 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The air suspension facilitated easy loading and contributed to its multifaceted functionality. Despite not offering a third row, the spaciousness and practicality made it an excellent fit for smaller families.

Tech enhancements in the 2022 Acura MDX included the premium ELS Studio 3D Audio System, featuring 16 speakers and 710 watts of power. Navigation, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and Acura Precision Cockpit 12.3-inch HD digital instrument panel were standard on higher trims. Alexa integration added smart home connectivity, while wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Qi wireless charging catered to modern needs. CabinTalk allowed easier communication from the driver to rear passengers, and the HUD provided crucial information at a glance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe was well-equipped with the Uconnect 5 system, boasting customization through My Pages and multiple screen configurations, including a 10.25-inch front passenger display in certain trims. The McIntosh 19-speaker stereo provided a noteworthy auditory experience, albeit limited to higher trims. Dual rear-seat entertainment screens ran Amazon’s Fire TV, offering entertainment during drives.

For safety, the 2022 Acura MDX, equipped with AcuraWatch, featured adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, traffic sign recognition, and more. Though crash-test ratings for 2022 hadn't been released, the robust engineering improvements promised elevated safety standards. Pedestrian protection and low-speed braking systems added further layers of precaution.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe came equipped with standard automatic emergency braking, lane assistance features, and cross-traffic alerts. Optional upgrades included intersection-collision assist, night vision, and a 360-degree camera. While Jeep announced a forthcoming hands-off assistance feature, early buyers wouldn’t benefit from it immediately via an OTA update. Both models awaited crash-test results for the 2022 editions.