Midsize SUVs are plentiful, but the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2022 Toyota 4Runner stand out as two of the more rugged contenders in a sea of family-friendly crossovers. Both models offer their own blend of style, capability, and adventure-readiness, meaning that they excel in different areas.
2022 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Midsize SUV Comparison
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts gave the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 9 points out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota 4Runner scored 6.
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee retains its iconic, rugged design while adding modern touches. It pays homage to Jeep's heritage, featuring the classic seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and styling cues inspired by the 1963 Wagoneer. Jeep offers a variety of trim levels, ensuring there's something for every taste and budget, from the basic Laredo to the opulent Summit Reserve. Inside, the Grand Cherokee benefits from quality materials, with even the base Laredo offering comfort and substance.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner, meanwhile, embraces its rugged roots. Its boxy proportions and high ride height clearly convey its off-road purpose. The interior, while functional, does show its age with a layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. However, the 4Runner redeems itself by offering a variety of trims, including the adventure-ready TRD Off-Road and the upscale Limited.
Performance
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee wins on performance as well, earning 8 points to the 2022 4Runner's 6.
The 2022 Grand Cherokee offers a range of powertrain options, including V6 and V8 engines as well as rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. A more powerful 5.7-liter V8 is available; it delivers 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque and makes the Grand Cherokee capable of towing up to 7,200 pounds. Jeep provides a choice of three 4WD systems, ensuring impressive off-road capabilities.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner relies on a single powertrain, a 4.0-liter V6 engine which makes 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While this engine may feel dated, it does provide decent acceleration. The 4Runner's rough ride and body roll don't exactly impress on pavement, but they come into their element when you venture off-road. For those who plan to do so, the 2022 4Runner offers features like Crawl Control and a locking differential for conquering challenging terrains.
Form and Function
The 2022 4Runner takes the lead when it comes to form and function. CarGurus experts rated it 8 points out of 10 while assigning 7 to the 2022 Grand Cherokee.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee prioritizes comfort and practicality. It boasts improved visibility, making it easier to navigate on and off the road. Even the base Laredo offers a comfortable cabin, with options for heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and more. Rear-seat space is somewhat limited for taller passengers, but the two-row Grand Cherokee provides 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The Toyota 4Runner emphasizes cargo space and off-road functionality. Its two-row version offers a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity, just slightly more than the max of 88.8 in the three-row model. With the rear seats up, the two-row still provides 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and the power-open/close rear window adds convenience. Though it may not be quite as spacious as some more modern SUVs, the 4Runner's layout accommodates gear and adventure equipment with ease.
Technology
CarGurus experts gave the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee an impressive 9 points for technology. The 2022 Toyota 4Runner also did well, earning 8 points.
Unlike its predecessor, the 2022 Grand Cherokee leaves no room for tech shortages. It boasts a plethora of cutting-edge features, including a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision to help spot pedestrians and animals after dark, a camera-based rearview mirror, and a staggering five interior touchscreens for information and entertainment. Tech enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the Grand Cherokee also offers a phenomenal 19-speaker McIntosh high-end audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration. The Grand Cherokee comes equipped with the next-gen Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and voice recognition. The available 10.25-inch touchscreen dedicated to the front passenger is a game-changer, allowing them to assist the driver or enjoy their own entertainment.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offers a respectable tech package: It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is straightforward in layout and complemented by physical buttons and dials. The system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While it covers the basics and provides tactile controls, the system lacks some of the advanced features seen in more modern infotainment suites, such as a head-up display.
Safety
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee scored well in safety, too, earning 9 points from CarGurus expert reviewers. The 2022 Toyota 4Runner lost a few points here, scoring a total of 7.
Jeep has fortified the 2022 Grand Cherokee with a robust collection of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Notably, the SUV's structure makes extensive use of aluminum and high-strength steel, with only 27% of the safety cage composed of mild-grade steel. While crash-test results for this specific model aren't available yet, the previous-generation Grand Cherokee was somewhat lacking in this department. The new Grand Cherokee comes with essential ADAS features, including Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which offers Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
Despite its age, the 2022 4Runner maintains relevance in the safety department. It benefits from the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes standard features like forward automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. However, some safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking aids, require additional investment. While the 4Runner received decent scores in frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rollover testing resulted in a three-star rating.
Cost-Effectiveness
CarGurus experts gave the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 6 points for cost-effectiveness. The 2022 Toyota 4Runner won out here, with 7 points.
While it comes with the Jeep Wave program as new, including three complimentary oil changes and tire rotations during the first 36 months of ownership, the Grand Cherokee tends to be on the pricier side. Optional features, destination charges, and 4WD add to the cost. However, it's important to note that you're paying a premium for the Jeep name and access to the Jeep community. The Grand Cherokee excels in terms of design, on-pavement performance, foul-weather capability, and a high-tech interior.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offers consistent fuel economy regardless of the drivetrain, returning 16 mpg city, 19 highway, and 17 combined. Its base new-car MSRP was competitive in the class, making it a reasonable choice for those who prioritize ruggedness and off-road capabilities over day-to-day conveniences. However, if you're seeking creature comforts, expect to pay more for additional features.
Verdict
Overall, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee averaged 8 points in its ratings from CarGurus experts, while the 2022 Toyota 4Runner averaged 7 out of 10.
Choose the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee if:
- you value technology, including infotainment features and advanced driver-assistance systems.
- rugged good looks and on-pavement performance are top priorities.
- you appreciate the Jeep brand's heritage and want to be part of the Jeep community.
Search for a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee on CarGurus
Choose the 2022 Toyota 4Runner if:
- you prioritize rugged capability and off-road performance.
- you're looking for consistent fuel economy and good cargo space.
- you appreciate the simplicity of tactile controls and a no-nonsense layout.
Search for a 2022 Toyota 4Runner on CarGurus
Both the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2022 Toyota 4Runner have their own strengths, as well as their own weaknesses (after all, nobody's perfect). The right choice comes down to a question of what matters most to you.
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