2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Lexus NX

The redesigned 2022 Lexus NX entered the market with four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. Each series offered varying trim levels including Base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury with base prices ranging from $37,950 to $49,000, exclusive of the $1,075 destination charge from the Ontario factory to local dealerships. The 2022 Lexus NX lineup included non-electrified models (NX 250 and NX 350), a hybrid (NX 350h), and a plug-in hybrid (NX 450h+). The focus here was on the turbocharged NX 350 in F Sport and Luxury trims.

Design has been a pivotal aspect for Lexus. The NX sported a bold spindle grille, a design language reflected across Lexus's lineup, while details like block lettering on the tailgate accentuated its modern aesthetic. Compared to its predecessor, the NX grew longer, wider, and taller, offering increased passenger and cargo space. Interiors ranged from NuLuxe simulated leather to real leather and open-pore wood trim in the Luxury versions. A panoramic sunroof was a new offering for the NX.

For the F Sport trim, unique exterior features like a mesh-pattern grille, body-color fender trim, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and black mirrors set it apart. Inside, sport-bolstered seats, a new F Sport steering wheel, and dark interior trims added to its charm. Lexus aimed for a minimalist interior design for the NX, which was a departure from the button-heavy previous version. However, the extensive integration of functions into the 14-inch touchscreen presented user challenges. Despite the minimalism, the frequently used stereo volume and temperature controls retained physical buttons.

In contrast, buyers of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee would have felt a sense of familiarity combined with a fresh perspective. The new Grand Cherokee, following its extended-length counterpart, the Grand Cherokee L, offered a plethora of trims including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. Prices ranged from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding the $1,795 destination fee from Detroit.

The Grand Cherokee echoed Jeep's design traditions with elements drawn from the 1963 Wagoneer. Features like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches were prominent. A black roof option and limited paint color availability were additional styling cues. Inside, the Grand Cherokee largely mirrored the '21 Grand Cherokee L. Nonetheless, the interior quality varied from a basic yet quality Laredo trim to a plush Summit Reserve fitted with premium leather, a McIntosh audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.

Electrification was crucial for the 2022 Lexus NX, which offered two electrified versions. The NX 350h combined an output of 239 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 39 mpg in combined driving. The NX 450h+, a 302-hp plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), offered an estimated 36 miles of pure electric range before switching to hybrid operation.

The turbocharged NX 350 featured a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters powering all-wheel drive (AWD). Both NX 250 and NX 350 came with multiple driving modes, with the F Sport trim adding Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes along with an adaptive sports suspension. The NX 350's performance was credible with a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds, though it lacked the refined sound quality of its German competitors.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), and choices between a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine generated 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. A 5.7-liter V8 offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds.

Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I for light off-roading, Quadra-Trac II with a two-speed transfer case for more challenging terrain, and Quadra-Drive II, which offered maximum off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, was built for serious off-roading with features like an electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and improved approach, breakover, and departure angles.

The Grand Cherokee's fuel economy ranged from 17 mpg with the V8 to 21 mpg with the V6. Despite its bulk, the Grand Cherokee felt nimble and athletic, especially in the absence of the Quadra-Lift suspension which, while enhancing ride quality, detracted from the character of the traditional Grand Cherokee.

Lexus claimed the 2022 NX had increased interior room, but from the driver’s seat, it felt more intimate due to the dashboard design. Comfort was a strong suit, especially with features like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Notably, the F Sport trim provided better-bolstered seats. Rear seats were spacious, and storage was practical. The panoramic sunroof extended fully, enhancing the cabin’s airy feel. Cargo space increased by 14% to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered commendable comfort across all trims. Features ranged from heated and ventilated front seats to a panoramic sunroof in higher trims. However, rear-seat space was tight for adults, and while the Grand Cherokee L provided more legroom, the two-row Grand Cherokee still offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it more spacious compared to the Lexus NX.

Advanced Technology was a cornerstone for Lexus in the 2022 NX. The new Lexus Interface infotainment system represented a significant upgrade, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, natural voice recognition, and a 14-inch touchscreen option. Over-the-air updates and Intelligent Assistant technology enhanced usability, although the large screen tended to accumulate fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

Jeep's 2022 Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system with optional 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, and a unique front passenger interactive display set it apart. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration were standard. Additionally, an optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV and a premium McIntosh audio system were notable highlights.

Lexus equipped the 2022 NX with the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, Curve Speed Management, and an Emergency Driving Stop System. Additional features such as blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist bolstered safety, alongside an extensive standard ADAS.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust ADAS package and a largely aluminum and high-strength steel safety cage. Notable safety technologies included Intersection Collision Assist, Active Driving Assist for semi-autonomous driving, and a hands-free version coming in 2022. These advanced features, combined with enhanced visibility and camera technologies, aimed to improve safety and driver confidence in the Grand Cherokee.