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2022 Toyota Highlander vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

2022 Toyota Highlander vs Jeep Grand Cherokee
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

2022 Highlander vs Grand Cherokee - How Do They Stack Up? Which is Better?

The 2022 Toyota Highlander and 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee are both full-sized SUVs with plenty of room for family or friends. Both vehicles have massive amounts of cargo space, too. The Highlander and Grand Cherokee each provide excellent off-road performance, making them true Sport Utility Vehicles in the purest sense of the term. They both offer comfortable interiors, making them ideal vehicles for family hauling, road trips or just daily commutes to work.

The Toyota Highlander and Grand Cherokee have become fan favorites for their spacious interiors. With up to seven seats in the larger model, they make a great option when transporting large groups of people or family outings - all without sacrificing style! Both models come with two body-style variations: the standard five-person capacity edition, and an extra roomy L version ideal for seating those extra passengers.

Toyota's Highlander is a generous-sized SUV; measuring in at almost 8 feet long and with 141.3 cubic-feet of interior passenger volume, it offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo alike! The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes close behind, boasting an impressive 194 inches end to end along with 105 cubic-feet of passenger space. For those needing more storage capacity, the large L model delivers 152 cubic feet within its 205 inch frame - plus up 84.6 cubes worth of luggage in Cargo Mode.

When it comes to large SUVs, the Toyota Highlander and Jeep Grand Cherokee are often mentioned in the same breath. Despite their many similarities, there is plenty to differentiate these two iconic models; from powertrains and drivability to safety features and overall value. Let's explore how they measure up against one another as we strive for a verdict on which offers superior satisfaction behind the wheel!

The Powertrain

Toyota boldly launches its 2022 Highlander, offering drivers a choice between two powerful powertrains. For those looking for maximum performance and efficiency, the 3.5-liter V6 impresses with Dual Overhead Cam engineering and refined Dual Variable Valve Timing that deliver 295 horsepower while Start/Stop Technology ensures optimal fuel consumption. Alternatively - green enthusiasts can enjoy an ecocentric hybrid model combining two electric motors alongside a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine – delivering true versatility in any situation!

The hybrid powertrain packs an impressive punch, delivering a combined 243 horsepower. It also features 186 horses from its combustion engine and 175 pound-feet of torque for superior performance. Gearheads will enjoy the CVT included with the Hybrid model while those familiar with automatic transmissions can take advantage of the 8-speed electronically controlled version available on V6 models too.

The Highlander offers an array of drive-train options to suit your driving needs. From the efficient Front Wheel Drive system, All Wheel Drive or optional Electronic On-Demand AWD, you can find a configuration best suited for you and your lifestyle. For added fuel efficiency consider opting for the Hybrid model which delivers up to 36 mpg Combined with FWD and 35mpg if equipped with AWD - making it perfect for those looking both performance and economy!

The Highlander has a drive-mode select system for different driving scenarios. Some models get modes such as Sport, Eco, Normal and Snow. The Hybrid Limited models add EV and Trail modes. There's also an available Multi-Terrain Select with choices such as Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt or Normal. The Highlander provides excellent performance on or off of paved roads and in various weather conditions.

Every model of the Highlander gets Electric Power Steering. There's power-assisted, ventilated front-disc brakes as well as rear disc brakes. The front end has an independent, MacPherson strut suspension with a stabilizer bar. The rear has a trailing-wishbone suspension.

Jeep offers three different powertrain options for their latest Grand Cherokee. Models will be equipped with a 3.6-liter V-6 , a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 or a plug-in hybrid. Both of the gasoline-only engines get Variable Valve Timing. They also both come equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. FWD is standard for models with the V-6 while the V-8 and hybrid models automatically get AWD.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers an impressive range of power and efficiency, with two distinct engine options. Those seeking fuel economy will enjoy a combined 22 mpg rating from the V-6 configuration, which produces 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque to get you where you need to go in style. For more robust performance demands, the HEMI delivers 357 horsepower along with 390 pound feet for superior acceleration - albeit at a slightly higher cost for fuel economy; this version obtains 17 mpg overall.

Get ready to experience game-changing power and performance with the new Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid. Boasting two electric motors paired with a turbocharged 2.0 liter I4 engine, drivers can enjoy 375 horsepower plus an impressive 470 pound feet of torque on any terrain - all while achieving 56 MPGe according to EPA estimates!

The Grand Cherokee exudes road confidence with its four-wheel disc brakes, Electric Power Steering system and specially tuned MacPherson strut suspension -- complete with shock absorbers for a smooth ride. Plus, Quadra-Lift® Air Suspension adds superior load leveling to the already comforted experience of behind the wheel.

Drivability

Drivability covers engine performance, acceleration, braking power and steering dynamics. It can also cover things like traction and off-road performance. The ride quality, interior comfort and entertainment features also have a large impact on the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander has good acceleration from its standard V-6 engine. It can get up to 60 miles-per-hour (mph) in a reasonable 6.7 seconds. The brakes are strong yet smooth and work just fine for being attached to a large, heavy vehicle. Steering and handling is good, but unremarkable. The overall ride quality is extremely comfortable, thanks to a cozy interior and the excellent suspension system.

The Highlander excels at off-road performance. A 10-way power driver's seat with power-adjustable lumbar support is available. Heating is available for the first- and second-row seats. Most models come stock with SofTex®-trimmed seats, though leather trim is available as well. There's ambient interior lighting and a Three-Zone Automatic Climate-Control system with an air filter.

Enjoy stunning audio with Toyota's premium JBL system featuring 11 speakers, a subwoofer and an amplifier. Upgrade your experience further by selecting the 12.3-inch touchscreen complete with Dynamic Navigation for easy access to all destinations. Make hands-free calls and listen to music wirelessly from your Bluetooth enabled device thanks to Voice Command technology, while Apple CarPlay & Android Auto offer convenient compatibility options no matter what type of phone you use!

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee promises a thrilling ride, with acceleration from its V-6 engine on par with the robust Highlander. Upgrade to the powerful HEMI and you can expect an even more exhilarating driving experience! Both SUVs have brakes that provide enough force for safe stops, but only in the Grand Cherokee will your steering be as responsive and precise - perfect whether cruising down highways or winding roads.

The ride quality is not quite as smooth and refined when inside of a Grand Cherokee. Off-road capabilities, however, are far superior in the Jeep. Lower trim levels get 8-way power seats up front. The top trim levels have 12-way power seats with adjustable lumbar support. Jeep offers a variety of upholstery choices for the seats, including Capri and Nappa leathers.

Heating and ventilation is available for both the front and rear seats. The interior is downright luxurious in the top trim levels. Jeep's Uconnect® 5 Infotainment System has a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, an available WiFi hot-spot and an available navigation system. It's also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There's even an available High-Performance Audio system with 14 speakers and a 950-watt amplifier.

Safety

Every model of the 2022 Toyota Highlander comes equipped with eight standard airbags. Toyota's Star Safety System™ includes features such as Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Electronically Controlled Braking, Anti-Lock Brakes and Traction Control.

Toyota's Safety Sense™ 2.5+ system has a wealth of driver-assist features and safety tech. This includes a Pre-Collision System that can even detect pedestrians. There's Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane-Tracing Assist and Lane-Departure Alert with Steering Assist.

Toyota's Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance feature as well as Roadside Assistance. There's a Vehicle Locator in case your Highlander is stolen. The Highlander also gets an anti-theft alarm and engine immobilizer to shut down the vehicle if an unauthorized driver tries to take it. Automatic Collision Notification alerts emergency services in the event of a crash.

The Toyota Highlander is designed with safety in mind, boasting child-proofing features like rear window locks and secure LATCH systems for car seats. A Tire Pressure Monitor can alert the driver to any potential issues whilst all seating positions come fitted with a 3-point seat belt system. To top it off there's also an extra layer of protection provided by the Blind Spot Monitor which senses approaching traffic from behind!

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee has advanced multi-stage airbags up front. There are also supplemental, seat-mounted, side-impact airbags up front. Additionally, the driver and front passenger get airbags for knee protection. Supplemental side-curtain airbags protect passengers up front and in the rear seats.

A ParkView® Rear Back-Up Camera and ParkView Front- and Rear-Park Assist are standard for all trim levels. There's a Tire-Pressure Monitor as well as a Tire-Fill Alert feature. Every Highlander also gets an Active Lane-Management System as well as Blind-Spot and Cross-Path Detection. The aforementioned Electronic Stability Control and Four-Wheel Traction Control also make for a safer ride.

With enhanced security features like child safety locks, tinted windows and the LATCH system for added peace of mind, you can be sure to have an extra watchful eye on your precious cargo. As a Jeep lover's dream ride, this vehicle offers more than meets the eye - boasting off-road capability with Integrated Off-Road Camera plus bright LED Daytime Running Lights in order to stay out of harm’s way after dark! To top it all off, every Grand Cherokee is also equipped with its own state-of-the art Security Alarm making it difficult target even for boldest criminals.

Which Has the Best Value?

The 2022 Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,855. This is the starting cost of an L trim with FWD. Prices of course will go up as optional features and packages are added on to a model. The most expensive Toyota Highlander is the Hybrid Platinum model. It starts out at $51,460. The best value among the Highlander's trim levels is either the LE trim or the Hybrid LE.

The Highlander LE and Hybrid LE models are the ideal choice for buyers looking to get excellent performance, features, and value without breaking the bank. Adding AWD capability is just an added bonus; it's a small increase in price that will provide enhanced handling as well as increased traction on wet roads or snow-covered surfaces--a worthy investment indeed!

Ready for a 2022 and all the ruggedness that comes with it? The Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is your most cost-effective entry point, offering great value at $38K.  But if you're feeling especially adventurous, up the ante to an Overland model—at just shy of $57K this trim level has plenty of features worth its price tag. Finally, those who want their 2021 ride offroad ready will feel right at home in the Summit Reserve 4X4: starting out at over 67 grand but more than capable of taking on whatever terrain awaits!

Are you in the market for an affordable, well-equipped SUV? Look no further than the Toyota Highlander! Despite its low price tag, this model is packed with convenience and safety features as advanced as any other vehicle. The LE trim level offers unbeatable value for customers who want a bit more luxury without sacrificing practicality - making it one of your best budget buys on the road today.

Which Is Better?

With the 2022 Toyota Highlander and Jeep Grand Cherokee competing for your attention, it's easy to see why drivers have a tough decision ahead. Both offer great features depending on what you prioritize - if efficiency is key then there's no beating the fuel costs of the regular engine with Toyota but those that need more power should go straight to higher available horsepower in the Grand Cherokee. Stepping off-road? The superior performance from Cherokees' 4x4 systems can't be matched by any Highlanders'. However, when it comes down to passengers plus cargo space; nothing quite tops an exciting drive in a roomy new Highlander.

With its superior safety and driver-assist technology, the Toyota Highlander may have an edge in certain areas. On the other hand, Jeep's Grand Cherokee provides unbeatable steering, handling and traction – ideal for those tackling offroad conditions. Ultimately it is difficult to declare either one as a clear winner due to their differing strengths - leaving spirited road users with tough decision making ahead!

Both the Toyota Highlander and Jeep Grand Cherokee can cater to different lifestyles - from those seeking horsepower for a thrilling weekend ride, all the way through to families just looking for an everyday go-getter vehicle. Ultimately though it's up to you what model suits your needs best; whether that be taking on offroad terrain or leaning more towards smooth city driving.

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2021 Toyota Highlander VS Jeep Grand Cherokee