2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design, from the iconic kidney grille to the body shape, was unmistakably BMW, though this familiarity sometimes led to it blending in with other models. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and offered different styling options, such as the xLine with satin aluminum finishes and the M Sport with body-color trims and high-gloss black accents. Wheel sizes ranged from 19 to 22 inches, adding to its sporty appearance. Inside, the X5 maintained a consistent BMW aesthetic, with a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its abundance of black plastic and parts-bin design.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee embraced traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. Available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, it offered a range of prices and features. The Grand Cherokee's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Inside, it mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with options ranging from basic cloth seats to premium leather and high-end audio systems. Despite some issues with gloss black finishes, the interior was generally praised for its quality and comfort.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a variety of powertrains, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, available in both RWD and AWD. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive45e delivered 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a 30-mile all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and dynamics were criticized for lacking the engaging handling expected from BMW. Fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M achieving 15 mpg combined and the xDrive45e rated at 50 MPGe when using both electricity and gas.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered RWD or 4WD with a choice of a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 produced 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.7-liter V8 offered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II providing serious off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-roading, featuring an air suspension and all-terrain tires. The Grand Cherokee's ride and handling were praised for their nimbleness and comfort, though the V6 was preferred for its efficiency and balance. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 21 mpg combined, depending on the engine and drivetrain.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard over time. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The split liftgate and adjustable vehicle height made loading cargo easy, though the doors didn't open wide enough for easy access to the second row. Cargo space was ample, even in the plug-in hybrid model.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered comfort across all trims, with features like heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. Visibility was improved, enhancing driver confidence. Rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L provided more room. Cargo capacity was generous, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 70.8 cubic feet with them folded down.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly. Additional features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and a panoramic moonroof. Upgrades offered premium audio systems, massaging seats, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system was responsive and supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A standout feature was the optional front passenger interactive display, enhancing convenience and entertainment. The McIntosh audio system and rear-seat entertainment with Amazon Fire TV integration were notable upgrades.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with numerous safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, some systems, like lane-keeping assistance, struggled in certain conditions. The X5 received good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured advanced driver assistance systems and a robust safety cage. New features included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to enhance convenience further.