Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, a continuation of the model introduced in 2015, maintained its 2017 design updates into 2021. It featured standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto since 2017, with a 2020 infotainment system update. The 2021 lineup saw the removal of the Premier trim, leaving LS and LT trims. The LS trim included 16-inch wheels, remote keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT trim added features like heated mirrors, remote start, and upgraded seating, with optional styling and convenience packages.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer shared its frame with the standard Wagoneer, offering traditional SUV styling with unique features like a black roof and model-specific grille. It boasted a new body-on-frame architecture with independent suspension and weight-saving materials. Inside, it offered high-end features like 24-way power front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, and American Walnut wood trim. The Grand Wagoneer also included unique interior elements like high door-mounted seat controls and a dashboard with "Grand Wagoneer" spelled out.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It came with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled at highway speeds, and the ride was firm, especially over rough roads. The Trax's tight turning radius aided maneuverability in urban settings, but it lacked the driving excitement found in rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in six seconds, despite its 6,400-pound weight. The Grand Wagoneer came standard with four-wheel drive, including the Quadra-Drive II system with multiple drive modes. It also featured a Quadra-Lift air suspension system, offering adjustable ride height for various driving conditions. While the Grand Wagoneer excelled in off-road capability, its size and weight made it less agile on the road.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered decent headroom and legroom in both rows, with supportive front seats but less comfortable rear seats. It provided 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The front passenger seat could fold flat for larger items. However, it lacked options for a power liftgate.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven or eight passengers, offering more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. It provided 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 94.2 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The Grand Wagoneer had a towing capacity of 9,850 pounds, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight. It featured a standard sunroof, four-zone climate control, and ample storage bins.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also offered two USB ports and an available WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and a McIntosh audio system. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and simultaneous Bluetooth pairing for two phones. Second-row passengers had a 10.25-inch touchscreen, with an optional rear-seat entertainment system. The Grand Wagoneer used the Uconnect 5 system, offering features like Amazon Alexa connectivity and Fire TV for Auto.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. It came standard with airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It included standard safety features like a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included a driver-attention monitor and night vision. Active Driving Assist offered lane centering and adaptive cruise control, with a hands-free version planned for future release.