Fully Redesigned Model. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is all-new for the model year. The midsize SUV was in need of an overhaul, as the last-gen model was introduced in 2011. Shoppers waiting for a new Grand Cherokee will want to know that the wait was worth it because the 2022 model is better in every way possible. Despite the all-new model, the Grand Cherokee continues to follow the previous model’s formula of being an upscale SUV with serious off-roading capability and an upscale cabin.
Dizzying Number Of Configurations.Jeep now offers the Grand Cherokee in two-row and three-row configurations. Additionally, there’s a plug-in hybrid variant. The three-row model and plug-in hybrid powertrain are a first for the Grand Cherokee nameplate.
In total, the Grand Cherokee is available in a total of 18 trims. That’s a confusing number of trims, but it’s relatively easy to find the perfect model that fits you because of the way Jeep separates the three configurations. If you only need seating for up to five, stick with the regular Grand Cherokee. Need three seats? That’s what the new Grand Cherokee L is for. Lastly, if you regularly commute less than 25 miles a day, the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe is worth exploring.
Either way, there’s a Grand Cherokee that will appeal to everyone now. From lower trims that capitalize on their styling and rugged off-roaders to high-tech models with an opulent interior, the Grand Cherokee fills a wide range of needs. And, if you’re not interested in the all-new model, but prefer the old Grand Cherokee, Jeep’s still selling that as a new vehicle under the WK model in three trims.
Upscale With Rugged Touch. Jeep’s designers deserve a lot of credit for the Grand Cherokee’s design. From the outside, the new Grand Cherokee clearly looks like a Jeep and is easily recognizable as a Grand Cherokee, but has an upscale touch that makes it competitive with luxurious options. Jeep’s seven-slot grille is prominently on display at the front, while the headlights and taillights are far thinner than before. Boxy front and rear ends, an available back roof, and clean lines push the Grand Cherokee into luxury territory.
On the inside, the new Grand Cherokee has an understated design with an elongated center console, rectangular air vents on the top of the dash, and sweeping trim pieces. Jeep’s moved to using a rotary dial for the transmission, freeing up space to move controls to be more accessible for the driver.
A Few Similar Engines. Like the outgoing model, the new 2022 Grand Cherokee comes with two familiar engines. While other two-row midsize SUVs in the segment come with turbocharged engines and more modern motors, the Grand Cherokee sticks with what it knows best
The Grand Cherokee starts off with the tried and true 3.6-liter V6 that makes 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. There’s nothing to really complain about with the V6 besides the fact that the V6 is an Angie that’s been around the block for a while. For a burlier feel, the SUV can b equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 that’s rated at 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. It’s a far better fit for the Grand Cherokee but is limited to the Trailhawk and Summit Reserve on top of being a $3,295 upgrade.
The big news for the 2022 model year is the introduction of the Grand Cherokee 4xe. It features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors for a combined output of 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. It’s the most powerful engine of the bunch, has 25 miles of all-electric range, and comes with standard four-wheel drive. It does give up some towing capacity compared to the gas-powered engines (6,000 pounds compared to 7,200 pounds), but it’s an impressive power.
Comfortable, Luxurious Interior. With the Grand Cherokee now being offered in a three-row L model, the SUV can now add family use to its list of capabilities. For shoppers that don’t need the available third row, the two-row Grand Cherokee has plenty of space for five people. The two-row Grand Cherokee has 144.6 cubic feet of passenger space, while the Grand Cherokee L has 151.9. While the first row has the same amount of space, the Grand Cherokee L offers 1.2 inches more of second-row legroom and 14 cubic feet more cargo space.
Regardless of whether you get the Grand Cherokee or Grand Cherokee L, the SUV has a thoroughly modern interior with high-end materials and loads of tech. The cushy front seats retain their high level of comfort on a long road trip, while the well-padded second-row seats can seat two adults comfortably. Surprisingly, the Grand Cherokee L has enough space in its third row for adults.
In addition to coming with premium materials, the Grand Cherokee is available with some impressive tech features. The SUV is offered with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch passenger-side touchscreen, a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a rear-seat entertainment system with two 10.1-inch displays.
Final Thoughts. Everyone thinks of the Jeep Wrangler when asked to name a Jeep, but the Grand Cherokee is a much better fit for people that don’t expect to regularly go off-roading. With handsome styling, an upscale interior, and loads of high-tech features, the Grand Cherokee moves upstream to feel like a luxury SUV. With new Grand Cherokee L and Grand Cherokee 4xe models, the midsize SUV is a more appealing option for shoppers.
The Kia Telluride is a spacious, comfortable, and value-oriented midsize SUV. It comes with three rows of seating as standard and is offered with a 291-hp V6 engine. It doesn’t have the same off-roading capability or high-tech features as the Grand Cherokee.
The Dodge Durango is a powerful and spacious three-row SUV with muscular styling. It’s available with a 6.4-liter V8 engine and can tow up to 8,700 pounds.
