Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Honda CR-V

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained the classic Jeep design traditions and closely mirrored the Grand Cherokee L's launch. Available in trims such as Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, each version brought unique elements ranging from simplicity to luxury. Prices ranged from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding the $1,795 destination charge. The Jeep's exterior design paid homage to the 1963 Wagoneer, with its seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and retro styling cues like the forward-leaning grille and tapered rear roof pillars. A black roof option and a limited selection of paint colors were initially available, with more promised.

Inside, the 2022 Grand Cherokee’s cabin was nearly identical to the 2021 Grand Cherokee L. Trim levels influenced interior quality, with the most affordable Laredo trim having a basic but quality feel. In contrast, the Summit Reserve trim exuded luxury with features such as premium leather, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, a McIntosh high-end audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. However, gloss black finishes on higher trims caused reflections that could hinder usability, whereas matte-black finishes on lower trims were more functional.

The 2023 Honda CR-V, with its blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase, adopted a cleaner and slightly more aggressive look compared to its predecessor. The redesigned SUV had a more conservative style intended to age gracefully. Both the CR-V EX and CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass. While the exterior differences between the trims were minimal, the interiors varied significantly. EX-L versions boasted upgrades like leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob compared to the standard cloth upholstery on EX models.

The CR-V's interior mimicked the latest Civic’s design, featuring a metal mesh trim and a dashboard that exuded quality and simplicity. CR-V EX-L models came with a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a power rear liftgate. Price-wise, the CR-V EX started at $31,110 with FWD, while the CR-V EX-L AWD reached $35,260, excluding a $1,245 destination charge. The Radiant Red Metallic paint added a premium feel to our test model, bringing the total MSRP to $36,900.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD), and came with either a V6 or V8 engine. The common 3.6-liter V6 produced 293 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, allowing for a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. A 5.7-liter V8 engine was also available with higher trims, producing 357 hp at 5,150 rpm and 390 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm, upping the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds.

Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I (automatic power delivery to the front wheels upon rear wheel slip), Quadra-Trac II (two-speed transfer case with manual control), and Quadra-Drive II (with electronic locking rear differential and maximum flexibility for off-roading). Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Grand Cherokee provided robust off-road capabilities, especially the Trailhawk version with its Quadra-Drive II, electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension (up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance), and Selec-Speed off-road cruise control.

Fuel economy estimates varied, with the V6 achieving up to 21.3 mpg and the V8 reaching around 17 mpg. While the V8 offered a thrilling auditory experience, it came with higher fuel consumption. The Grand Cherokee’s ride quality was commendable, and while the Quadra-Lift air suspension provided off-road benefits, some enthusiasts might prefer avoiding it due to potential future maintenance costs and the dulled driving character it imparted.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. It featured a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, despite contributing to excellent fuel economy (29.1 mpg on the test route), detracted from driving enjoyment due to its droning noise during acceleration.

Honda's attention to suspension, steering, and brakes made the CR-V dynamically satisfying. It quashed unwanted body motion, handled various road conditions with ease, and made driving through cloverleaf ramps and mountain curves enjoyable. However, the CVT's noise was a significant drawback.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee promised comfort across all trim levels, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and even front seat massagers. The panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin. Visibility improvements aided drivers in both everyday settings and off-roading. Though rear-seat space was somewhat tight, especially for taller passengers, the Grand Cherokee L offered more legroom. Cargo space in the two-row Grand Cherokee was 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V boasted roominess, though the low-sitting, car-like driving position in the front seats contrasted with the more spacious and higher-feeling rear seats. Rear passengers enjoyed more legroom and several reclining seatback positions. The CR-V EX-L model included air conditioning vents for rear passengers, but USB charging ports were extra-cost accessories. Overall, the CR-V featured ample storage spaces, including a large bin under the center armrest and several door and tray options. Its cargo space was 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, or 76.5 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came loaded with advanced technology, including a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision, camera-based rearview mirror, and five interior touchscreens. Its Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering significant responsiveness improvements and over-the-air updates, was available with 8.4-inch and 10.1-inch touchscreen displays. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM 360L, and voice recognition. Upgrades included navigation, HD Radio, and a McIntosh high-end audio system.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on EX trims. EX-L trims added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, wireless charging, and an upgraded sound system. However, to get premium features like a Bose sound system and advanced navigation, buyers had to opt for the top-tier CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid. While the improved tech was welcome, it only brought the CR-V up to par with rivals.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee utilized extensive aluminum and high-strength steel in its safety cage, significantly improving crash protection prospects. Its advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) included Intersection Collision Assist, Active Driving Assist with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering, and a forthcoming hands-free version of Active Driving Assist.

The 2023 Honda CR-V included Honda Sensing, which bundled collision warning and avoidance features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. It also had new technology such as Traffic Jam Assist. However, some features, like lane-centering assist, could benefit from refinement. Honda's ACE body structure standard aimed to deflect collision energy from the passenger compartment, with new airbag designs expected to enhance safety.