2022 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Kia Carnival presented a unique design across its trims, each offering distinct elements. The LX trim featured a standard grille and 17-inch aluminum wheels, while the EX trim doubled the paint color options and added 19-inch machined-finish wheels and simulated leather. The SX trim introduced a mirrored grid-pattern grille and black wheels, and the SX Prestige focused on interior upgrades with real leather and VIP Lounge Seats. The Carnival's SUV styling included skid plates, a floating roof design, and a robust roof-rack on higher trims. Despite visible sliding door tracks, the Carnival's design was sharp and angular, standing out in its segment with a crossover-like interior and upscale feel even in base trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. Available in multiple trims, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of prices and features, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve. Its design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer with a forward-leaning grille and tapered roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with a focus on quality and comfort. The Summit Reserve trim offered premium features like quilted leather and a high-end audio system, while lower trims provided a more functional matte-black finish.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The engine provided smooth acceleration, though the transmission's delayed downshift response was noticeable in Smart mode. The Carnival achieved an average fuel economy of 21.7 mpg, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 22 mpg. Its front-wheel-drive dynamics felt athletic, though it could be stiff over uneven surfaces.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered both RWD and 4WD options, with a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and a 5.7-liter V8 engine delivering 357 horsepower. The V6 had a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, while the V8 increased it to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, catering to different off-roading needs. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions with features like Quadra-Drive II and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was excellent, though the Quadra-Lift system could dull its traditional driving character.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered practicality with its minivan design, though the SUV-style dashboard limited storage space. The LX trim featured captain’s chairs, while higher trims offered an 8-passenger Slide Flex seat configuration. The SX Prestige trim included VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments and a rear sunroof. The Carnival provided 40.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 145.1 cubic feet with seats removed. Its smart hands-free power-sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, though they could open unintentionally.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort across all trims, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and massagers. Visibility improvements enhanced driver confidence, especially off-road. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet. The Grand Cherokee L provided more rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity, making it a better choice for taller passengers and larger loads.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology varied by trim, starting with an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration in the LX trim. The EX trim upgraded to a 12.3-inch infotainment system with wired smartphone functions, navigation, and additional features like Passenger View and Passenger Talk. The SX trim added a dual-screen rear entertainment system, while the SX Prestige included a digital instrumentation display and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Kia provided a comprehensive quick reference guide to help users navigate the technology.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, featuring a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch upgrade available. Standard features included wireless smartphone integration and Amazon Alexa. The Grand Cherokee also offered a front passenger interactive display, enhancing convenience and entertainment options.

The 2022 Kia Carnival came with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims added features like front parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist. The Carnival also included an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist. Crash-test results were pending at the time of review.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust ADAS package and a safety cage composed of high-strength materials. New features included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, providing Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to debut in 2022, enhancing the Grand Cherokee's technological capabilities.