2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee retained a familiar design, echoing Jeep's traditional aesthetics while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. This SUV was available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each offering distinct features. The Grand Cherokee's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with its forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the base Laredo providing good quality and comfort, while the Summit Reserve offered premium leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a high-end audio system.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX featured a bold spindle grille and substantial ground clearance, giving it a commanding road presence. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint colors. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior had a surprising amount of plastic, reflecting its low sales volume and cost-saving measures. However, it still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to maneuver in technical driving situations.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a V6 and a V8 engine, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) options. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the available 5.7-liter V8 engine delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The Grand Cherokee's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 7,200 pounds, depending on the engine. Three different 4WD systems were available, with the Quadra-Drive II system providing the most off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, excelled in off-roading with features like an electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain driving modes.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. While it didn't match the power of some modern engines, the GX's V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds but lagged behind other SUVs in fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight made it roll through corners, but its predictable handling and strong brakes compensated for this. The GX featured a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and a real 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable interior for the driver and front passenger, with higher trims providing 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 to the cabin. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, and the Grand Cherokee L provided more legroom. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained ample cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The GX's physical controls were a blessing, with hard buttons instead of haptic-touch interfaces. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs or a three-across bench seat option. However, the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's side-hinged trunk door required muscle to open, and cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Grand Cherokee's larger 10.1-inch touchscreen was standard on higher trims, and the optional front passenger interactive display provided entertainment options for the front-seat occupant.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment technology, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX included a CD player, reflecting its older tech offerings. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for leveling the vehicle in various driving conditions.

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 Grand Cherokee included Intersection Collision Assist, Active Driving Assist for Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, and a hands-free version of Active Driving Assist coming in 2022.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included ADAS features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older engineering, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.