2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Rebel Among SUVs

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee: The midsize SUV segment is packed with vehicles that blend together. Soft suspensions, numb steering, styling that prioritizes blending in over standing out. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not one of those vehicles. It is a traditional SUV in a world of crossovers. Rear-wheel-drive based. Proper off-road hardware. A V8 option. And it is all the better for it.

Jeep completely redesigned the Grand Cherokee for 2022, and the changes are substantial. The new model is longer, wider, taller, and lighter than the outgoing version. It rides on a new platform that also underpins the three-row Grand Cherokee L. The interior is more luxurious. The technology is more advanced. And for the first time, there is a plug-in hybrid version called the 4xe. The Grand Cherokee is a vehicle that does not try to be everything to everyone. It is a Jeep, and it leans into that identity unapologetically.

Our Take

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most well-rounded SUVs in its class. It offers genuine off-road capability, a luxurious interior, and a range of powertrains that includes a V6, a V8, and a plug-in hybrid. The ride is firm but controlled. The steering is heavier than most rivals, but that weight translates to confidence on the highway and precision on the trail.

But let us be clear about something. The Grand Cherokee is not the most fuel-efficient SUV. It is not the roomiest. It is not the cheapest. What it is, however, is one of the most rewarding to drive. The V6 is smooth and adequate. The V8 is a throwback to a time when engines had character. And the 4xe plug-in hybrid is a genuine game-changer, combining strong electric range with the capability Jeep is known for. If you want an SUV that feels special, the Grand Cherokee deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Pros

• Genuine off-road capability with multiple four-wheel-drive systems and available air suspension
• Upscale interior with high-quality materials on higher trims
• Multiple powertrain options including V6, V8, and plug-in hybrid
• Strong towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds with the V8
• Uconnect 5 infotainment system is intuitive and responsive
• Available front-passenger screen and rear-seat entertainment screens

Cons

• Mediocre fuel economy across all powertrains
• Smaller interior than some two-row midsize SUVs
• Higher trims reach luxury vehicle prices
• Some owners report infotainment glitches
• Resale value history is mediocre
• Aging Pentastar V6 and Hemi V8 engines

What’s New for 2022

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is all-new. This is the fifth generation of the nameplate, and it represents a significant leap forward from the previous model. The redesign brings a new platform, a longer wheelbase, and a wider track. The Grand Cherokee L, a three-row variant, was introduced for 2021, but the two-row Grand Cherokee is new for 2022.

The big news is the introduction of the 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain, which combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a total of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The 4xe offers up to 26 miles of all-electric range and is available on Limited, Overland, and Summit trims. This is the powertrain that best matches the Grand Cherokee’s character.

The interior has been completely redesigned with higher-quality materials and more technology. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system is standard, with an 8.4-inch screen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch screen on higher trims. An optional 10.25-inch front-passenger screen and rear-seat entertainment screens are also available.

Exterior Design

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is instantly recognizable as a Grand Cherokee. The seven-slot grille is prominent. The boxy shape is unmistakable. But the new model is more refined than its predecessor. The wider track and longer hood give it a more planted stance. The lower center of gravity improves aerodynamics and handling.

Compared to the Ford Explorer, the Grand Cherokee looks more traditional and off-road oriented. Next to the Honda Passport, it appears more premium and aggressive. The Grand Cherokee is not a vehicle that blends in. It has presence, and it uses that presence to communicate what it is: a capable SUV equally at home in the suburbs and on the trail.

Driving Experience

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a driving experience that is more visceral than most midsize SUVs. The ride is firmer. The steering is heavier. The Grand Cherokee feels more capable because it is more capable.

On the highway, the Grand Cherokee is stable and composed. The suspension absorbs bumps without feeling floaty. The steering provides enough feedback to make the driver feel connected to the road. Behind the wheel, you notice the weight of the vehicle, but it never feels cumbersome.

Off-road, the Grand Cherokee is in its element. The available air suspension can raise the vehicle up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance and provides up to 24 inches of water-fording ability. The Quadra-Trac II four-wheel-drive system includes a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing. The Trailhawk model adds even more off-road hardware, making it one of the most capable SUVs in its class.

On pavement, the Grand Cherokee is not a sporty SUV. It does not handle like a BMW X5 or a Porsche Cayenne. But it is more engaging than a Honda Passport or a Ford Edge. The chassis is communicative. The body roll is controlled. The brakes are confident. The Grand Cherokee rewards the driver, whether they are on pavement or off it.

Performance and Acceleration

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers three powertrains, each with a distinct character.

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 produces 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It is the base engine, and it is the most popular choice. The V6 is smooth and adequate for most daily driving. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 is the best choice for most buyers, offering a good balance of power and efficiency.

The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 produces 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. It is a throwback to a time when engines had character. The V8 delivers strong acceleration and a satisfying rumble. It also increases towing capacity to 7,200 pounds, compared to 6,200 for the V6. But the V8 is expensive and thirsty. Most buyers can skip it. The fuel costs alone will add up over time.

The 4xe plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a total of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The 4xe is the most powerful Grand Cherokee, and it is the most fuel-efficient. It gets to 60 mph a full second quicker than the Hemi V8. The 4xe offers up to 26 miles of all-electric range. It is available on Limited, Overland, and Summit trims. If efficiency matters to you, this is the one to get.

Ride Comfort and Cabin Refinement

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee rides firmly but comfortably. The suspension is tuned for control rather than isolation. On smooth roads, the Grand Cherokee is quiet and composed. On rough roads, the suspension absorbs bumps without being harsh. The available air suspension with semi-active damping provides an even smoother ride.

The cabin is well-insulated from wind and road noise. The Grand Cherokee is quieter than its predecessor, thanks to acoustic glass and additional sound-deadening material. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with available heating, ventilation, and massage functions on higher trims.

The driving position is upright and commanding. The steering wheel adjusts for reach and tilt, and the seats provide good support. The Grand Cherokee is easy to drive for hours without fatigue.

Interior and Luxury Feel

The interior of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a significant step up from the previous generation. The materials are higher quality, the design is more modern, and the technology is more advanced. The interior on higher trims, such as the Summit Reserve, is genuinely luxurious, with Palermo leather, real wood trim, and metal accents.

The base Laredo trim is more utilitarian, with cloth upholstery and hard plastics. The Limited trim adds leather-trimmed seats and a power liftgate. The Overland and Summit trims add more luxury features, including ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

The layout is clean and functional. The 10.1-inch touchscreen is the centerpiece of the dashboard, with physical controls for climate and audio. The optional front-passenger screen is a clever addition, allowing the passenger to control navigation and audio without distracting the driver. The rear-seat entertainment screens are also a welcome feature for families.

The interior is not the roomiest in its class, but it is comfortable and well-designed. The front seats are spacious. The rear seats are adequate for two adults. The cargo area is generous. The Grand Cherokee is designed to be used, not just admired.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes standard with Uconnect 5, the latest version of Stellantis’ excellent infotainment system. The system is intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and quick responses. The base model includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims get a 10.1-inch screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

The optional McIntosh audio system is one of the best in the automotive industry, with 17 speakers and 950 watts of power. The optional front-passenger screen is a clever addition, providing entertainment and comfort options without distracting the driver. The rear-seat entertainment screens are also a welcome feature for families.

However, the Grand Cherokee’s technology is not perfect. Some owners have reported infotainment glitches, including system reboots and slow loading times. The Uconnect 5 system is a significant improvement over the previous generation, but it is not flawless.

Fuel Economy

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not a fuel-efficient vehicle. The V6 is rated at 22 mpg combined. The V8 is rated at 21 mpg combined. The 4xe plug-in hybrid is the most efficient option, with a combined rating of 23 mpg in hybrid mode and up to 26 miles of all-electric range.

The Grand Cherokee’s fuel economy is typical for a vehicle of its size and capability. The V8 is particularly thirsty, and the V6 is not much better. The 4xe is the most efficient Grand Cherokee, but it is also the most expensive. If fuel economy is a priority, the 4xe is worth the premium. But if you are looking for the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, the Grand Cherokee is not the right choice.

Practicality and Storage

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a practical vehicle for families and adventurers. The two-row model seats five passengers. The rear seats are spacious enough for adults, though the legroom is tighter than some rivals. The cargo area is generous, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The Grand Cherokee can tow up to 6,200 pounds with the V6 and 7,200 pounds with the V8. The 4xe can tow up to 6,000 pounds. The cargo area is well-designed, with a low load floor and a power liftgate on higher trims. The Grand Cherokee can handle a weekend trip to the mountains or a trip to the hardware store.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. All trims include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian and cyclist detection.

The Euro NCAP gave the Grand Cherokee a five-star safety rating, with scores of 84% for adult occupants, 89% for child occupants, and 81% for vulnerable road users. The IIHS has not rated the 2022 Grand Cherokee, but modifications were made to improve occupant safety in passenger-side small overlap crashes. The Grand Cherokee is a safe vehicle, but it is not class-leading in this area.

Competitors Worth Considering

The Ford Explorer offers three-row seating and a more car-like driving experience. It is more practical for families, but it lacks the Grand Cherokee’s off-road capability and upscale interior. If you need three rows, the Explorer is the better choice. If you want capability and style, the Grand Cherokee wins.

The Honda Passport offers similar cargo space and a more affordable price. It is less luxurious and less capable off-road. The Passport is the better choice for budget-conscious buyers. The Grand Cherokee is the better choice for buyers who want a premium experience.

The Toyota 4Runner is rugged and reliable but old and unrefined. It offers similar off-road capability with a more traditional body-on-frame design. The 4Runner is the better choice for serious off-roaders. The Grand Cherokee is the better choice for daily driving.

The Kia Telluride offers a more spacious interior and a more affordable price. It is more practical for families but lacks the Grand Cherokee’s off-road capability and premium feel. The Telluride is the better choice for families who need maximum space. The Grand Cherokee is the better choice for buyers who want capability and style.

Biggest Strength and Biggest Weakness

Biggest Strength: The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s greatest asset is its duality. It is a genuine off-road vehicle that is also a comfortable, luxurious daily driver. The available air suspension, multiple four-wheel-drive systems, and impressive ground clearance make it one of the most capable SUVs in its class. The interior is upscale, the technology is advanced, and the ride is comfortable. The Grand Cherokee can handle a week at the office and a weekend on the trail without missing a beat.

Biggest Weakness: The Grand Cherokee’s biggest weakness is its fuel economy. The V6 is thirsty, and the V8 is a gas guzzler. The 4xe is more efficient, but it is expensive. The Grand Cherokee is not a vehicle for buyers who prioritize fuel economy. If you are looking for the most efficient SUV in its class, the Grand Cherokee is not the right choice. This is where it disappoints. Jeep has not solved the fuel economy problem, and it shows.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

Cardrav recommends the Limited 4xe for most buyers. It offers the best balance of capability, efficiency, and features. The 4xe powertrain provides 375 horsepower, 26 miles of all-electric range, and 23 mpg combined in hybrid mode. The Limited trim adds leather-trimmed seats, a power liftgate, and a larger touchscreen.

The Laredo is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. It is well-equipped and offers the same V6 powertrain as higher trims. The Overland and Summit trims add more luxury features, but they are significantly more expensive. The Trailhawk is the best choice for serious off-roaders, with additional off-road hardware. The Summit Reserve is the most luxurious Grand Cherokee, with premium leather, real wood trim, and a premium audio system.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a vehicle that stands out in a crowded segment. It is not the most practical, the most fuel-efficient, or the most affordable. But it is one of the most rewarding to drive. It offers genuine off-road capability, a luxurious interior, and a range of powertrains that cater to different needs. The Grand Cherokee is a vehicle that does not compromise on its identity. It is a Jeep, and it is proud of it.

Who should buy it: Buyers who want a capable, comfortable, and stylish SUV. Those who need genuine off-road capability but also want a premium interior. People who want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd and does not apologize for its character.

Who should avoid it: Buyers who prioritize fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee is not efficient, and the V8 is a gas guzzler. Those on a tight budget. The Grand Cherokee is expensive, and options add up quickly. Anyone who needs maximum interior space. The Grand Cherokee is not the roomiest in its class.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a vehicle that does not try to be everything to everyone. It knows what it is, and it does that well. If you value capability, style, and character, the Grand Cherokee is worth a serious look.

FAQ

Is the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliable?

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a mixed reliability record. Some owners have reported infotainment glitches, including system reboots and slow loading times. The powertrain is generally reliable, and the V6 and V8 engines are proven. The 4xe plug-in hybrid system is new and unproven. Overall, the Grand Cherokee is not as reliable as a Toyota 4Runner or Honda Passport, but it is better than some European rivals.

How does the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee compare to the Grand Cherokee L?

The Grand Cherokee L is the three-row version of the Grand Cherokee. It is longer, heavier, and more practical for families. The two-row Grand Cherokee is lighter, more agile, and more affordable. The L offers seating for up to seven passengers, while the two-row model seats five. The L is the better choice for families who need three rows; the two-row model is the better choice for buyers who want a more athletic driving experience.

What is the fuel economy of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 is rated at 22 mpg combined. The V8 is rated at 21 mpg combined. The 4xe plug-in hybrid is rated at 23 mpg combined in hybrid mode and offers up to 26 miles of all-electric range. Real-world fuel economy varies depending on driving conditions and habits.

Is the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee a good family SUV?

Yes, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a good family SUV for families of up to five people. It offers spacious seating, a generous cargo area, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The available rear-seat entertainment screens and front-passenger screen add convenience. However, the Grand Cherokee is not as spacious as some rivals, such as the Kia Telluride or Ford Explorer.

Does the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee have a V8?

Yes, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V8 is available on higher trims and increases towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. However, the V8 is expensive and thirsty. Most buyers should stick with the V6.