2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, though all-new, felt familiar due to its adherence to Jeep design traditions and its resemblance to the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. Jeep launched the three-row Grand Cherokee L first, followed by the shorter, sportier two-row version. Available in various trims like Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of options from basic to luxurious. Prices ranged from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding a $1,795 destination charge. The SUV's design drew inspiration from the 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the base Laredo offering good quality and the Summit Reserve providing premium features like quilted leather and a McIntosh audio system.

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged in 2021 on the TGNA-K platform, shared with models like the Avalon, Camry, and RAV4. Measuring 186.6 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, and 65.9 inches tall, the Venza had a modern exterior design with a scalloped body side and LED lighting. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials and a well-placed touchscreen display. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats could comfortably accommodate three adults. The Venza's design was more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) and came with either a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, with a tow rating of 6,200 pounds. The available 5.7-liter V8 delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering varying levels of off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee's fuel economy ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-roading with features like Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. The V6 engine was preferred for its balance of efficiency and performance, while the V8 offered a thrilling driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with drivers able to choose between EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, and the Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The Venza's fuel efficiency and lack of range anxiety made it a practical choice for those without access to charging infrastructure. The Venza's performance was sprightly, with agile handling and a comfortable ride, making it suitable for family use.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort for the driver and front passenger, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, especially for off-roading, and the available panoramic sunroof added an airy feel. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, and the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom and cargo space. The two-row Grand Cherokee had 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat and 70.8 cubic feet with the back seat folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with good headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row had 45.2 inches of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The cabin felt roomy, especially with the available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and numerous storage options. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack did not impact cargo capacity, offering 28.8 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 55.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. The cabin was designed to be quiet, with sound-blocking and absorbing materials throughout.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and up to five interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available as an upgrade. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The optional front passenger interactive display allowed the front-seat occupant to assist the driver and enjoy their own entertainment options.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid powertrain required no special attention and eliminated range anxiety. The LE and XLE models came with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the Limited added a nine-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Both setups included Toyota Connected Services, such as Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect. The Advanced Technology Package for the Limited trim included a head-up display and rain-sensing windshield wipers. A digital rearview mirror was also available, providing a clear view even with passengers or cargo blocking the rear window.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a safety cage composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. The ADAS package included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022, allowing for hands-free driving on approved roads.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The Venza also had eight airbags, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, and LATCH anchors for child safety seats. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) provided forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.