2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with new front fascia elements called "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC60 shared its foundation with other Volvo models like the XC90 and S90. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design, featuring a portrait-oriented touchscreen and a new digital instrument cluster. While the interior was generally subdued, the R-Design trim added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, maintained Jeep's design traditions while offering a shorter, sportier profile. Available in various trims, including Laredo, Trailhawk, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee catered to different preferences, from simplicity to luxury. Its design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille and headlights, a lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the base Laredo offering quality cloth seats and higher trims like the Summit Reserve boasting luxurious features such as quilted leather, a McIntosh audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. Despite some reflections on gloss black controls, the interior provided a sense of quality and comfort.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 engines. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, offering 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque for the B5, and 295 hp and 310 lb-ft for the B6. The B6 also featured an electric supercharger. The B5 offered standard FWD or optional AWD, while the B6 was AWD only. The XC60's acceleration was slightly slower than the 2021 model, with the B5 reaching 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 emphasized luxury over performance, with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered RWD or 4WD, with a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 5.7-liter V8 engine delivering 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The V6 had a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, while the V8 increased it to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, catering to different off-roading needs. The Trailhawk trim featured Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension, making it highly capable off-road. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was excellent, with or without the Quadra-Lift suspension, and the V6 engine was preferred for its efficiency and good acceleration. The V8 offered a thrilling sound but at a higher cost and fuel consumption.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded. The plug-in hybrid models had slightly less cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

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

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. Over-the-air updates were supported, and iPhone compatibility was promised. The system's graphics were praised, but Apple users might find the Google-based design less appealing. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distraction.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L were standard. The optional front passenger interactive display allowed the passenger to assist the driver and enjoy entertainment options.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received high ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and more. New features for 2022 included a Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist system offered adaptive cruise control and lane centering.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust safety structure with extensive use of aluminum and high-strength steel. It included a comprehensive suite of ADAS, such as Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected in 2022, allowing for more autonomous driving on approved roads.