2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the creation of the XC90, which launched as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, showcased a sleek and athletic design with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trims, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe retained the brand's iconic design cues, such as the seven-slot grille, while integrating modern elements like active shutters for improved aerodynamics. The Grand Cherokee 4xe was a two-row, five-passenger SUV, available in various trims, including the base 4xe, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. The interior of the Overland trim featured leather seats, wood and metal accents, and bronze contrast stitching, although it also had a noticeable amount of hard plastic materials. Despite this, the Grand Cherokee 4xe offered a comfortable and upscale feel, with a focus on passenger space and convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining a gasoline engine and electric motor for a total of 455 hp. The T8 model, in particular, provided spirited acceleration and smooth power delivery, thanks to its electric motor. The XC90's handling was impressive for its size, with minimal body roll and a refined driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied across models, with the T8 achieving 55 MPGe and an 18-mile EV range, while the extended range variant offered up to 36 miles of electric driving.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 400-volt battery pack, producing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This setup surpassed the output of Jeep's 5.7-liter V8 engine. The Grand Cherokee 4xe boasted a total driving range of 470 miles and an impressive 56 MPGe. However, once the battery was depleted, the fuel efficiency dropped to 23 mpg. The vehicle offered various driving modes, including Hybrid, Electric, and eSave, allowing drivers to optimize performance and efficiency. The Grand Cherokee 4xe also excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II systems, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, depending on the seating configuration. The third row was suitable for children, while the second row offered easy access with a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. Cargo space was generous, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available when both rear rows were folded. The XC90 also provided ample storage options throughout the cabin, making it a practical choice for families. The vehicle's air-conditioning system performed admirably during hot weather, ensuring a comfortable interior environment.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, while not offering a third row, provided ample space for passengers in its two-row configuration. Cargo capacity ranged from 37.7 cubic feet to 70.8 cubic feet with the second row folded. The Grand Cherokee 4xe's air suspension allowed for quick adjustments, facilitating loading and unloading. Despite testing in hot conditions, the vehicle's standard heated steering wheel promised comfort during colder months.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which offered tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. The nine-inch touchscreen was positioned for easy access, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided customizable displays. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The XC90 came with a Harman Kardon sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade for audiophiles. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were standard, along with the Volvo Care smartphone app.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe boasted the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, praised for its customization options and user-friendly interface. The My Pages feature allowed for personalized screen layouts. The vehicle included multiple screens, such as a 10.25-inch front-passenger display and a digital driver information display. A wireless charging pad was optional, while four USB ports were standard. Rear-seat entertainment screens with Amazon's Fire TV were available. The McIntosh stereo system, highly regarded for its sound quality, was standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued the brand's legacy of safety, offering a comprehensive suite of features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe offered a range of standard and optional safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional options included intersection-collision assist, night vision, and a 360-degree camera. While Jeep announced plans for a hands-off driver assistance suite, it was not available at launch. The Grand Cherokee 4xe had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.