2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood as a testament to Toyota's unwavering commitment to the minivan segment, even as other manufacturers shifted focus to SUVs. With a history dating back to the original Van in 1984, the Sienna evolved through several generations, culminating in the fourth-generation model launched in 2021. This iteration embraced a more assertive SUV-like style while retaining its minivan identity, thanks to features like sliding side doors and a macho front end. The interior was designed with family convenience in mind, offering ample storage, comfortable seating, and a third-row bench that easily folded into the floor. The Sienna's design and functionality made it a practical choice for families seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe combined Jeep's iconic design elements with modern hybrid technology. The seven-slot grille, a hallmark of Jeep's heritage, returned with active shutters for improved aerodynamics. The Grand Cherokee 4xe was available as a two-row, five-passenger SUV, offering a range of trims from the base 4xe to the luxurious Summit Reserve. Inside, the Grand Cherokee 4xe boasted a comfortable and upscale feel, with leather seats, wood and metal accents, and advanced technology features. However, the presence of hard plastic materials in the interior raised concerns about long-term durability. Despite these drawbacks, the Grand Cherokee 4xe delivered a blend of rugged capability and modern comfort.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. This setup, paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), offered smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, thanks to its Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform. The EPA rated the Sienna Hybrid at 36 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD models, making it an economical choice for families. The 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack was tucked under the front seats, ensuring a low center of gravity and a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, on the other hand, showcased a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine and a 400-volt, 17-kWh battery pack. This combination delivered an impressive 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the output of Jeep's 5.7-liter V8 engine. The Grand Cherokee 4xe offered a total driving range of 470 miles and an EPA rating of 56 MPGe. However, once the battery was depleted, the fuel efficiency dropped to 23 mpg. The Grand Cherokee 4xe featured multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Electric, and eSave, allowing drivers to optimize power usage. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by Jeep's Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II systems, making it a versatile choice for adventure seekers.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna's power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, with foot-motion triggers, provided convenience for busy families. With a 3,500-pound towing capacity, the Sienna was well-suited for family adventures.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, while not offering a third row, provided ample space for passengers and cargo. Folding the second row expanded the cargo area from 37.7 cubic feet to 70.8 cubic feet. The Grand Cherokee 4xe's air suspension allowed for quick adjustments, making loading and unloading easier. Despite the Texas heat during testing, the vehicle's standard heated steering wheel promised comfort in colder climates. The Grand Cherokee 4xe served as a comfortable and capable family vehicle for those who didn't require a third row.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was absent, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's head-up display and digital rearview mirror enhanced safety and convenience, while remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard across all trims.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering customization options through the My Pages feature. The vehicle boasted multiple screens, including a 10.25-inch front-passenger display and a digital driver information display. While a wireless charging pad was optional, the Grand Cherokee 4xe offered dual rear-seat entertainment screens with Amazon's Fire TV for Auto. The standout feature was the 19-speaker McIntosh stereo, available on higher trims, delivering exceptional audio quality.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, forward collision warning, and more. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, ensuring the safety of all passengers. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire for added convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe offered a range of standard and optional advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Standard features included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional upgrades included intersection-collision assist, night vision, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. While the Grand Cherokee 4xe had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, its safety features provided peace of mind for drivers.