2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The NX was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more space for passengers and cargo. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique mesh-pattern grille and 20-inch gloss black wheels, while the interior boasted sport-bolstered seats and a minimalist design. However, the decluttered dashboard, with many functions integrated into the touchscreen, sometimes made it challenging to quickly locate features.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended length to accommodate a third row, presented an elegant and recognizable Jeep design. The exterior featured modernized lighting and improved paint finish and panel fit. The interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials like quilted Nappa leather and real wood. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all rows, even accommodating adults in the third row. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical switches for essential functions. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was quite loud.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h delivering 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ providing 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension, enhancing its sporty character. The NX 350 Luxury offered a softer driving experience. The NX was not designed for off-road use, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with a choice of a 3.6-liter V6 or a 5.7-liter V8 engine, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, with 293 horsepower, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, while the V8 offered 357 horsepower and a more satisfying performance. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights. The plug-in hybrid 4xe, with 375 horsepower, was a promising option, though not tested. The Grand Cherokee L was capable off-road, especially with the Off-Road Group option package.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The rear seats offered ample space, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. The NX had a 14% increase in cargo space, with 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Luxury trim featured ambient lighting with 14 themes.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a spacious interior with seating for six or seven, depending on the configuration. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system was intuitive, with physical controls for climate and stereo functions. The Grand Cherokee L had a panoramic roof and ample USB ports, though the air vents were small. The third row was comfortable for adults, and the vehicle offered plenty of storage space.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen and an optional 14-inch screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The NX offered a range of connected services, including navigation, music streaming, and digital key capability.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology, with upper trims featuring massage seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 10.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger and dual 10.1-inch screens for rear passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, with additional options available on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus NX came with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The Emergency Driving Stop System was tested and proved effective. The NX also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist technology.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The vehicle also included various driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.