Some model years roll out without much fanfare, largely the same as the ones that came before. Others emerge fully redesigned, chock with new features both aesthetic and functional. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is definitely the latter, boasting some of the most exciting changes this steadfast SUV has seen in the last 10 years.
The 2021 unveiling of the Grand Cherokee L gave some hints about the direction this model would go in, but there are a few key differences; namely that the ’21 Grand Cherokee L has three rows of seats, while the ’22 Grand Cherokee has two rows of seating.
Keep reading to learn more about which features on the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee are new.
Introducing a plug-in hybrid powertrain
Two gas engines, a 3.6-liter V6 or a 5.7-liter V8, remain the same as previous generations. However, the 2022 model year will offer a third powertrain option: a plug-in hybrid 4xe. This system will utilize a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, netting 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.
As Green Car Reports writes, the ’22 Grand Cherokee 4xe should fetch around 25 miles running on electricity alone without any fuel and have a hybrid rating around 57 miles per gallon. What’s interesting about this hybrid in particular is that, like the Wrangler, it shouldn’t sacrifice any capability in terms of off-roading or hauling. In fact, the hybrid earns a towing capacity up to 6,000 pounds.
Knowing which powertrain will suit you best will determine which trim levels you can get, something to keep in mind when you’re scouring Jeep Grand Cherokee lease deals or financing deals.
Adding more cargo and passenger volume
One of the most noticeable features about any vehicle you’re in is how comfortable you feel as a driver or passenger. Feeling cramped, especially if you’re sitting shoulder to shoulder with someone in the backseat, can quickly put the damper on any journey.
The 2022 Grand Cherokee is about three inches longer than prior model years, and also has increased its track by about an inch and half. It doesn’t sound like much, but this results in additional hip and shoulder room for passengers at a total width of 84.6 inches.
Families with lots of luggage, groceries, sports equipment, camping gear, furniture and other items will be excited to learn the newer Grand Cherokee model adds six cubic feet of cargo volume in the back of the SUV compared to the previous model years.
The ’22 Grand Cherokee upgrades its safety tech
We may judge new vehicles first with our eyes and later how we feel behind the wheel during a test-drive, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing the latest safety tech is on your side is also a consideration when buying or leasing. Across the Grand Cherokee trim levels, there are three different safety and security packages filled with standard and available features.
As Hot Cars explains, the newest Grand Cherokee SUV offers some of the latest driver-assistance tech on the market, including but not limited to:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring system
- Lane-keeping assist
- Drowsiness detection
- Night vision
- Automatic emergency breaking (bike and pedestrian detection)
There’s a lot new about the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee; in fact, that’s kind of its thing, as the first true redesign in a decade on this classic SUV. Here we’ve covered some of the most exciting developments, like the plug-in hybrid powertrain that should emerge in early 2022, as well as the updated proportions and the enhanced safety tech.
James Wallace did his degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. He has an ongoing interest in mental health and well-being.
