Better Than Ever: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

New two-row Jeep Grand Cherokee debuts.


Jeep has a new Grand Cherokee, completing a two-year release of this fifth-generation midsize model. In 2021, Jeep released the first-ever three-row variant, then followed in 2022 with the all-new two-row standard model.

Together, the Grand Cherokee solidifies its leadership in the segment with off-road credibility no competitors can match.

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review

Jeep offers the 2022 Grand Cherokee two-door in seven trims, with the prices ranging from $37,785 to $63,760. Choose the three-row Grand Cherokee L, and this one is available in six trims and priced from $39,220 to $64,395. All pricing does not include a $1,795 destination charge. Notably, it is possible to pay more than $70,000 for a top-trim model.

For the sake of this review, we’re covering the two-row model primarily. For our review of the three-row Grand Cherokee, please find it here.

Exterior Features

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row profile

We are happy that Jeep did not mess with success when redesigning the Grand Cherokee. For Jeep faithful, we believe you will agree. The latest model is 2 inches longer between the axles and about 2 inches lengthier overall. Other than that, the style is certainly much more of an evolution rather than a revolution since its last change.

The ubiquitous 7-slat grille is back and the front fascia is slightly more upright than before. The headlight assembly is now thinner and features standard LED lights. Its presentation is more sophisticated than previously without losing its sporty flair.

Certainly, from front to back, the Grand Cherokee blends ruggedness with elegance. The squared-off wheel wells, tidy greenhouse, and available contrasting black roof are distinctions of note. The horizontal taillamps sit high and complement the frontal expression. A signature and integrated spoiler deliver a fitting capstone to this model.

Depending on the trim, Grand Cherokee shoppers will find 17-, 18, 20-, and 21-inch aluminum wheel choices. All-season and all-terrain tire choices are available.

The list of standard and available features include LED fog lights, heated and power-controlled side mirrors, roof racks, approach lights, and an available power liftgate. There is a myriad combination of packages and individual options (including accessories) for customization.

Interior Highlights

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row front row seats

The Grand Cherokee with two rows lives up to its promise in offering room for five. That there are two more inches between the axles translates into a roomier interior with ample legroom all around.

This Jeep’s interior is not only roomy, but it is upscale. On base models, it does not advance a budget look that some mainstream competitors supply. Move to the top trim and this one mimics the best of the luxury breed. This means real woods, twin-stitching, and quilted leather seats are included.

Cloth seats are reserved for the standard trim only. Move up the trim range and you will find various leather or leather and suede combination seats. The first-row seats are plush and comfortable.

The second-row split-folding bench seat offers decent hip and back support. An eight-way power driver seat with lumbar support and an available power front seat with lumbar support are among the features offered.

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row rear seats

Full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and dual-zone climate control come standard. The list of upgrades includes heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, ambient lighting, and four-zone automatic climbing control.

All trims come with at least a full-length front-row floor console with a pair of illuminated cupholders. This console includes two-tier armrest storage and a front bin for storage suitable for holding two wireless devices.

On other trims or packages, a wireless charging pad and an overhead console with LED maps lamps, and a sunglasses storage bin are included. This is also where control of the available sunroof and sunshade happens.

The standard cargo space measures 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat. Fold-down the second row and there are 70.8 cubic feet for the taking. The cargo area comes carpeted and includes a storage tray and four cargo tie-down loops on the floor.

In addition, there is a side storage bin on the driver side and a 12-volt auxiliary power outlet.

Key Safety Features

Jeep equips the Grand Cherokee with a strong list of standard and available driver-assist safety equipment. To begin, all models come with a rear backup camera system with gridlines and trailer view. Further, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic detection systems are included. Lastly, all trims have a rear park assist system.

Standard with the Limited trim and available elsewhere is an adaptive cruise control system with a full stop. Forward collision warning with active braking, lane control, and automatic high beam headlamps are also available.

Other features include advanced brake assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and parallel and perpendicular park assist.

Technology Overview

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row dashboard

Choose a 2022 Grand Cherokee and the standard audio package contains six speakers. Also available is a nine-speaker Alpine sound system with a subwoofer and a 506-watt amplifier.

At the top of the trio of sound systems is a McIntosh audio system. This audio package includes 19 speakers, a subwoofer, and a 950-watt amplifier. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are incorporated.

An 8.4-inch full-color digital gauge cluster is standard; a 10.1-inch center console display is available. There are six total USB ports and a 115-volt power outlet is available. An available rear entertainment system with a pair of 10.1-inch display screens fixed to each front seatback is the choice of families on the go.

Competitive Set

There are more three-row SUVs in the midsize utility vehicle segment than there are two-row models. Jeep wisely has both covered with the standard and extended-wheelbase models.

Among the two-row competitors are the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, and Honda Passport. Other models to consider include the Kia Sorento, Chevrolet Blazer, and the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Competing models typically offer standard four-cylinder engines and optional V6s. Most have the standard front-wheel drive with available all-wheel drive.

Drive Impressions

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row dashboard

Launching the current-generation Grand Cherokee are a pair of engine choices. A third choice is on the way.

The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that bangs out 293 horsepower and 260-pound feet of torque. The second choice is a 5.7 liter-V8 engine that produces 357 horsepower and 390-pound feet of torque. Both engines work with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Grand Cherokee comes with standard rear-wheel drive. Three four-wheel-drive systems are available.

  • The first system is known as Quadra-Trac 1. It is a single-speed, full-time four-wheel-drive setup.
  • The second system is known as Quadra-Trac 2. This one adds a two-speed transfer case, which is ideal for low-range movement.
  • The third system is known as Quadra-Drive 2. This one builds on Quadra-Trac 2 by adding an electronic limited-slip rear differential.

PHEV Model

Arriving later in the model year is the Grand Cherokee 4xe variant. This one represents a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motors. Notably, this system will produce a combined 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.

Towing is one of the Grand Cherokee’s strengths. The base engine is rated to pull up to 6,200 pounds, while the V8 pulls up to 7,200 pounds. Choose the hybrid and that model will pull up to 6,000 pounds. Jeep’s towing leadership is evident in a segment where no competing model tops 6,000 pounds.

Our test model was an Overland trim with the V8 engine and four-wheel drive. This powertrain and drivetrain choice are more than sufficient for the model at hand. In fact, we think the V6 will satisfy the majority of buyers. It is that decent. It is that strong.

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row engine

Nevertheless, we put the V8 through the motions, especially on the highway. This engine offers strong step-off power, as well as robust passing capabilities. You are not necessarily going to race with this motor, but most certainly it delivers the kind of on-road performance that is too hard to ignore.

Consequently, it is about a half-second faster than the V6 on the run-up to 60 mph, so there is that. Props to the transmission for seamlessly doing its job in the background. Always on target. Never once did we sense it was hunting for gears.

But most of our driving was around town as well as on gravel roads and across certain light- to medium-duty off-road pursuits. However, we were not able to take the Grand Cherokee to a few of our favorite off-road haunts as these were closed for the winter.

The Uwharrie National Forest is one of our special testing grounds, but there are a few nearer that also prove the Grand Cherokee’s mettle.

Air Suspension System

One of the strengths of the Grand Cherokee is its available air suspension system. This one adjusts the ground clearance that averages 8.4 inches accordingly. While on the road and in Sport mode, the Grand Cherokee drops to 7.8 inches for better handling and minimal body roll.

On the other hand, in the Trailhawk model, the system raises clearance to a stellar 11.3 inches, enabling the Grand Cherokee to conquer rocky outcrops.

We believe that there is no competing model that matches the Grand Cherokee’s off-road prowess, no matter the trim. Each Grand Cherokee excels at axle articulation, with superior approach, breakover, and departure angles.

The Trailhawk does it best with its disconnecting front sway bar, multiple terrain modes, beefy tires, and stellar crawl ratio. Nonetheless, if your Grand Cherokee has four-wheel drive, you should feel confident that it is up to the task.

Our only recommendation is to ensure that it is equipped with sufficient skid plates and brush guards as you head out.

Parting Thoughts

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Two-Row three-quarter rear

Perhaps the biggest challenge for Grand Cherokee shoppers is whether to go with the two- or three-row model. We lean toward the latter for the additional storage capacity and human carrying capabilities.

That said, if you need room for no more than four or five individuals, the standard-wheelbase model is sufficient. We would stick with the V6 unless robust towing capabilities are required. In that case, the available V8 may be worth it along with the four-wheel drive.

Pricing can certainly jump, especially when considering upper trim models or opting for the various packages available. At the top end, the Grand Cherokee rivals the cost of luxury competitors and that is a price point some find too difficult to swallow.

We believe, however, that a well-equipped model can be had for about $50,000, delivering a vehicle with superior towing and off-road credibility with it.


See AlsoThe Jeep Wagoneer Family Invades the Market

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Matthew Keegan

Leave a Comment