2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Acura MDX

In 2022, the Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its storied design traditions while infusing a modern touch. It resembled the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, with familiar design cues like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. This two-row, five-passenger SUV offered a sleek, sporty look compared to its bigger sibling. Buyers had multiple trim choices—from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve—each reflecting Jeep's commitment to style and function. The design drew inspiration from the 1963 Wagoneer, especially noticeable in the forward-leaning grille and lowered beltline. Inside, the 2022 Grand Cherokee echoed the Grand Cherokee L's interior. The cabin ranged from basic yet high-quality in the Laredo trim to opulent in the Summit Reserve trim. However, the high-trim’s gloss black controls were reflective and hard to use.

Conversely, the 2023 Acura MDX was designed for a different type of luxury. Available in standard and Type S variants, the MDX's aesthetic appeal was enhanced by features like chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels. The Type S stood out with subtle styling and four exhaust outlets, giving it a poised stance. Inside, it was a blend of luxury and sportiness, featuring premium Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a sporty black headliner on the Type S. The Apex Blue Pearl paint added an extra layer of sophistication. However, some design choices like the body tapering at the doors created an odd visual dent. Also, the gloss black plastic on the dash made it challenging to use certain controls.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came with either a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque or a 5.7-liter V8 generating 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. With a towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds for the V8, and 6,200 pounds for the V6, this SUV now offered three distinct 4WD systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, catering to different levels of off-roading needs. Its Quadra-Lift air suspension could provide up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance. The V6 delivered better fuel economy, around 21 mpg combined. In contrast, the V8 offered thrilling performance at the expense of higher fuel consumption.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivered 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. This engine teamed up with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). With up to 70% torque distribution to a single rear wheel, it facilitated agile handling. The adaptive air suspension could elevate ground clearance from 7.3 to 9.4 inches, suitable for mild off-roading. Unfortunately, the MDX Type S struggled with a cohesive performance, showing signs of an indecisive transmission, harsh suspension over bumps, and poor brake modulation. It also had dismal fuel economy, averaging 16.9 mpg combined.

Every 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee variant served different needs but consistently offered a comfortable drive, especially in higher trims with premium seating features. The redesigned Grand Cherokee improved visibility and included a well-designed cabin layout. Its rear-seat legroom remained tight, favoring taller passengers in the Grand Cherokee L. Cargo capacity behind the back seat stood at 37.7 cubic feet, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

In the 2023 Acura MDX, luxury met practicality. Available with seven-passenger seating, it allowed removal of the second-row middle seat for better access to the third-row. The MDX offered firm yet supportive seats, heated front rows, and ample cargo space. The rear area measured 18.1 cubic feet, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite the luxe interior, some design choices sacrificed storage space, and the third-row was best suited for children.

Jeep's 2022 Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse. It featured a next-gen Uconnect 5 infotainment system, configurable with either an 8.4-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. The front passenger display provided additional entertainment and driver assistance options.

The 2023 Acura MDX came with Acura's Digital Precision Cockpit, including a 12.3-inch digital panel and infotainment screen. However, its True Touchpad Interface (TTI) was less user-friendly compared to traditional touchscreens. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, but often proved frustrating to navigate. The ELS Studio 3D audio system provided rich sound quality, while the head-up display added driving assistance info.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. With a safer build predominantly composed of high-strength steel, Jeep aimed to improve its crash test ratings.

Acura's 2023 MDX came equipped with Acura Watch, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane assistance, and collision avoidance systems. However, some ADAS functionalities were somewhat intrusive or inaccurate. It did earn strong safety ratings, with the NHTSA giving it an overall five-star rating and the IIHS naming it a Top Safety Pick+.