2022 BMW X3 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 BMW X3 was available in four variants, with the sDrive30i being the only rear-wheel-drive model, while the others featured all-wheel drive. The exterior design was slightly more aggressive, with a larger kidney grille and adaptive full LED headlights that were slimmer. The rear showcased new taillights with a black surround and pincer claw-shaped brake light LEDs. The updated rear included larger exhaust tips and a new bumper. The X3 offered nine finishes, with new colors like Brooklyn Grey and Tanzanite Blue II. The interior was well-appointed with dark oak wood trim, power-adjustable front Sport seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery was standard, with Vernasca leather as an option.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, redesigned as a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, maintained Jeep's design traditions. It was available in multiple trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. The styling drew influence from the 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and headlights. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of comforts, from basic cloth seats in the Laredo to luxurious quilted leather in the Summit Reserve. The interior was spacious, with improved visibility and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was generous, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2022 BMW X3 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 6 seconds. The M40i variant boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, delivering 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. Fuel economy for the sDrive30i was 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the M40i was rated at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, with a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, or a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V6 had a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, while the V8 could tow up to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most off-road capability. Fuel economy ranged from 17 mpg combined with the V8 to 21 mpg with the V6. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, featuring advanced systems like Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain driving modes.

The BMW X3 provided ample comfort and practicality, seating five with a 40/20/40-split rear seat. Cargo space was generous, accommodating backpacks and equipment with ease. The interior featured SensaTec faux-leather seats, with Vernasca leather as an upgrade. The redesigned center console included a larger infotainment system, with improved ergonomics and accessibility.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offered comfort across all trims, with heated and ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers, but cargo capacity was substantial, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 70.8 cubic feet with them folded. The Grand Cherokee L variant provided additional legroom and cargo space.

The BMW X3 came with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. An optional Live Cockpit Professional offered larger screens and a fully digital experience. The standard sound system included 12 speakers, with a Harman Kardon upgrade available.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with Uconnect 5, offering an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. A 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system were available. The Grand Cherokee also featured a head-up display and a unique front passenger interactive display.

The 2022 BMW X3 received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. It included adaptive LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and active blind-spot monitoring. Optional packages added features like parking assistance and traffic jam assistance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was built with a strong safety structure and included advanced driver assistance systems. Features like Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022.