2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in a market where minivans were becoming increasingly rare. Despite the decline in popularity of minivans due to the rise of SUVs, Toyota remained committed to this segment. The Sienna, which debuted in 1998, evolved over the years, with the latest generation launched in 2021. It embraced a more SUV-like style while retaining its minivan identity, evident from its sliding side doors. The design featured a bold front end, re-engineered door hinges, and a sleek profile with integrated styling details. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage, comfortable seating, and a spacious third row that could be easily stowed away.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained its reputation for luxury and ruggedness. Since its debut in 1992, the Grand Cherokee had been a popular choice, and the L model extended its length without compromising its classic style. The High Altitude package added bold design elements, including blacked-out features and dark gray wheels. The interior of the upper trims was impressive, with high-quality materials and a sophisticated design. While not every component was top-tier, the overall feel was justified for its price. The Grand Cherokee L offered a blend of modern and traditional Jeep elements, making it a standout in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered exclusively by a hybrid powertrain, a first for Toyota minivans. It featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trims. The AWD system used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the mechanical setup. The Sienna's electronically controlled CVT provided smooth power delivery and enhanced fuel efficiency, with selectable drive modes for varied driving conditions. The Sienna's handling was commendable for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. Its fuel economy was impressive, with EPA ratings of 36 mpg for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD models.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, however, had a less impressive standard V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The engine was criticized for its lack of refinement and low-end torque. An optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 offered a more robust 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, making it a better choice for towing, with a maximum capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8 also provided a more satisfying sound. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was solid, offering confident handling, especially with the air suspension. The steering, however, could have been more responsive. The SUV offered three 4WD systems, with the most advanced providing permanent 4WD and adjustable ground clearance.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed as a versatile family vehicle, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with cargo space measuring 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, with foot-motion triggers, added convenience for families.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom for second-row passengers, thanks to its extended wheelbase. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a 60/40 bench seat available as an option. The third row was tight for adults but suitable for children. The interior featured good visibility and a well-organized dashboard, though some infotainment graphics were hard to read. Cargo space was generous, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row, 47 cubic feet behind the second row, and 85 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. While it lacked wireless connectivity for these features, it offered a range of telematics services and a 12-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, along with a head-up display on Platinum models. The digital rearview mirror provided a clear view when the vehicle was fully loaded.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims, running Uconnect 5. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, was available on upper trims. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could control navigation and entertainment. The "FamCam" allowed monitoring of rear passengers, and Amazon Fire TV was available for streaming.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, forward collision warning, and more. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors for child seats.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, except for rollover tests. It included standard safety features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and night vision.