2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Volvo XC90

In 2022, the Jeep Grand Cherokee emerged with a refreshed look that retained enough of its classic Jeep DNA to feel familiar. It was essentially a two-row version of the three-row Grand Cherokee L from the prior year. From the Laredo’s simplicity to the luxury of the Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of trims that could cater to various needs and budgets. Prices ranged from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding a $1,795 destination charge.

Jeep’s design incorporated traditional elements like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. It also drew inspiration from the 1963 Wagoneer in its forward-leaning grille and tapered rear roof pillars. Though initially limited in paint color options, more choices were anticipated. Inside, the cabin ranged from basic but quality cloth seats in the Laredo to the high-end finish of the Summit Reserve, which featured quilted leather, a McIntosh audio system, and a large panoramic sunroof.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Volvo XC90 took a different approach to design. Gone were the boxy aesthetics of older Volvos. The XC90's front end was strong but elegant, with a grille that was bold yet not overpowering and headlights featuring the distinct “Thor’s Hammer” design. Its rectilinear shape was modernized, shedding Volvo’s old “toaster” image.

Our test vehicle was the AWD Ultimate trim, equipped with 21-inch wheels that added a bit of drama to its otherwise stoic form. The Platinum Gray paint had rich undertones that added depth in sunlight. Inside, the XC90 was all about Scandinavian minimalism, featuring luxurious materials like two-tone leather, crystal shift knobs, and wood inlays. The seats were covered in Nappa leather, and despite the minimalist aesthetic, it exuded elegance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) and came with a choice of a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. The 5.7-liter V8, available on higher trims, offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, pushing the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds.

Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II. The Trailhawk trim was the most capable off-roader, with features like electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain driving modes for various conditions.

The Grand Cherokee’s V6 engine was preferred for its balance of power and efficiency, delivering an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined. The V8, while thrilling, consumed more fuel. The Grand Cherokee’s ride quality was excellent, especially with the adaptive damping Quadra-Lift air suspension, though some might opt out of Quadra-Lift to maintain a traditional Grand Cherokee driving feel.

For 2023, Volvo introduced the B5 and B6 engines in the XC90, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5, with a turbocharger and mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6, like the T6 but with mild-hybrid tech, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid systems enhanced both engines' efficiency and smoothness, though fuel economy gains were minimal.

The XC90 provided a refined driving experience, absorbing road noise and offering confident braking. It lacked off-roader features but was perfectly capable in snowy conditions.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee aimed for comfort across its trims, from the basic but quality Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve. Visibility was improved, especially for off-roading. However, rear-seat room was tight for taller passengers, and the plastic front seatback trim added to the discomfort. Cargo space was decent, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Grand Cherokee L offered more space, but the two-row Grand Cherokee was still practical.

The 2023 Volvo XC90’s front seats were a sanctuary of comfort and style, though storage space for smaller items was limited. The center console lacked dedicated space for a cell phone, and the USB port was oddly placed. The second row was comfortable but tricky to adjust. The six-passenger configuration, which required upgrading to the B6 engine, made accessing the third row easier. Cargo space was 12.5 cubic feet with the third row up, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it down, and maxing out at 65.5 cubic feet. This was less than some of its competitors.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision, and a camera-based rearview mirror. Inside, it offered up to five touchscreens, a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Uconnect 5 infotainment system came standard with an 8.4-inch screen, upgradeable to 10.1 inches. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a plethora of other features like Amazon Alexa integration and voice recognition.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 boasted a 9-inch vertical touchscreen running Google OS. It integrated features like Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant, with natural language recognition for ease of use. The 12.3-inch driver information display complemented this. However, many functions were buried in the touchscreen interface, which could be frustrating, detracting from the otherwise minimalistic and elegant interior design.

The 2022 Grand Cherokee featured a robust array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), with a structure heavily composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, were notable features. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was anticipated.

Volvo’s safety legacy continued with the 2023 XC90, which boasted a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving.