2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee had a familiar aura that echoed the Jeep design traditions while marking a significant shift with its two-row configuration, unlike the previous year's extended-length Grand Cherokee L. Jeep's decision to introduce the Grand Cherokee L first as a three-row vehicle set the stage for the 2022 Grand Cherokee's debut with a robust trim lineup, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve trims. Prices spanned from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding the $1,795 destination charge.

Driving through Utah, the Grand Cherokee proved versatile, with each trim level living up to its promise, whether it was simplicity, off-road prowess, or luxury. The styling of the new Grand Cherokee reflected the influence of the 1963 Wagoneer, featuring hallmark Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Inside, from the basic yet quality Laredo trim to the luxurious Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee catered to varied tastes with comfort and sophistication.

Conversely, when shopping for the 2022 Jeep Wrangler, the first critical decision revolved around choosing between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door model. Powertrain choices included a variety of engines, such as a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid, with the most common engines paired with a manual transmission, though an automatic was available. Buyers chose from trim levels like Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, along with numerous special editions.

Our High Tide special edition test model, based on the four-door Wrangler Unlimited Sport S, boasted unique features like LED exterior lighting, upgraded windshield, and the Xtreme Recon package, making it off-road-ready with a raised suspension, special wheels, and tires. The High Tide, with its rare Hydro Blue paint and practical Sunrider Fliptop, turned heads and invoked the spirit of adventure.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee offered buyers rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), and the choice between a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque or a 5.7-liter V8 producing 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V6 provided a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, while the V8 increased towing capability to 7,200 pounds. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Grand Cherokee featured three different 4WD systems tailored to varying off-road needs. Fuel economy varied, with the V6 achieving up to 21 mpg in combined driving and the V8 averaging around 17 mpg.

The off-road-centric Trailhawk trim excelled with features like Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension, offering up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water fording capacity. The Grand Cherokee, particularly the Trailhawk, showcased remarkable off-road prowess, making difficult terrains seem navigable with ease.

On the flip side, our Wrangler High Tide demonstrated the rugged charm of the Wrangler lineup. Powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, it produced 285 horsepower and 260-pound feet of torque. Despite its purported 21 mpg combined rating by the EPA, real-world performance dipped to 16.8 mpg over a week of driving. The Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system proved beneficial in harsh weather conditions, while the Wrangler's off-road capabilities shone brightly with the Xtreme Recon package's enhancements. However, the rough and noisy driving experience, frequent gas station stops, and challenging handling underscored the Wrangler’s rugged, no-compromise nature.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers, enhancing comfort levels as trim levels ascended. Heating, ventilation, massagers, and a heated steering wheel adorned the upper trims. Rear visibility and improved sightlines facilitated driving in diverse conditions, and the optional panoramic sunroof added to the open and airy cabin feel. While rear-seat room was somewhat tight, and the hard plastic front seatbacks were a minus for legroom, the Grand Cherokee L offered slightly more legroom and higher cargo capacity. It boasted 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The Wrangler High Tide’s raised suspension rendered entering and exiting the vehicle challenging, particularly for shorter individuals. Its basic interior materials were durable, yet required frequent manual adjustments. Despite visibility challenges due to its design and equipment, rear-seat passengers enjoyed reasonable accommodations, although storage solutions within the cabin were limited. The Wrangler Unlimited provided 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space, extending to 72.4 cubic feet with the back seat folded down, slightly edging out the Grand Cherokee in maximum cargo capacity.

Technological advancements abounded in the 2022 Grand Cherokee, ranging from a head-up display and Night Vision system to a camera-based rearview mirror and multiple touchscreens catering to information and entertainment. The Uconnect 5 system, lauded for its responsiveness and over-the-air updates, supported an array of features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The digital gauge cluster and the front passenger interactive display further showcased the Grand Cherokee’s tech-forward orientation.

In contrast, the Wrangler High Tide, grounded in simplicity, featured a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades available with the larger Uconnect 8.4 system included satellite radio, connected services, and an Alpine premium sound system. Despite its more basic setup, the essential tech functionalities were adequately met, and additional features like remote engine start, keyless entry, and climate control rounded out the Wrangler’s technology offering.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) were extensive, with features like Intersection Collision Assist, Active Driving Assist providing Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, and future hands-free driving functionality. Built with high-strength steel and aluminum, the Grand Cherokee promised improved crash-test performance, although formal ratings were pending at the time.

For the Wrangler High Tide, the included Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group added blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Despite these additions, the Wrangler’s safety ratings lagged, earning only a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and marginal ratings in IIHS crash tests. The Wrangler’s top-heavy design necessitated cautious driving to mitigate safety risks.