2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs. 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The all-new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is the next SUV to have a hybrid powertrain. This one comes as a plug-in hybrid, and will compete with other two-row hybrid SUVs. One of its biggest competitors is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, one of the leaders of the segment. The RAV4 Hybrid is one of the best-selling hybrid SUVs, and for good reason. The 2022 Grand Cherokee 4xe looks like it’ll be really competitive with all that it brings to the table. Is it enough to dethrone other hybrid SUV models like the Toyota RAV4?
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
The fifth generation of the Grand Cherokee introduces all sorts of new features. Most prominently, the 4xe variant is a powertrain available on multiple different trim levels. The Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve trims can all come with the PHEV system. Jeep is starting a journey toward having zero emissions, and a hybrid option on a less fuel-efficient vehicle is a step in the right direction. The 4xe propulsion system combines two electric motors, a 400-volt battery pack, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. The system is capable of producing up to 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. With an all-electric range of 25 miles, it’s surprising it can also tow 6,000 pounds.
The 4xe E Selec modes include hybrid, electric, and Save. These are powertrain modes selected by the driver via buttons mounted to the left of the steering wheel. Each one is for a different type of driving. For a short drive to the store or daily commute, Electric will prevent wasting any unnecessary fuel. The eSave option prioritizes using fuel so that the battery charge is saved for when you really need it. The hybrid option combines the two other options so that the vehicle is as efficient as possible.
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe offroad capability
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe is as offroad capable as the standard Trailhawk you know and love. According to Stellantis, the Trailhawk 4xe “conquered the formidable Rubicon Trail and did so under all-electric power using electric mode”. Some of the offroading specs for this model are 10.9-inches of ground clearance, 24-inches of water fording capability, and a 47.4:1 crawl ratio. Included features for leaving the road are a rear electronic limited-slip differential, Selec-Terrain traction management system, Selec-Speed control, tow hooks, 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and more. The hybrid powertrain won’t stop you from going offroad if that’s something important to you.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is one of the best hybrid SUV options available. 219 hp is much less than the Grand Cherokee 4xe’s 375, but it’s still nothing to sneeze at. The RAV4 Hybrid averages 41 city mpg, which is less than the 4xe’s estimated 57 MPGe. Though the RAV4 is not a plug-in hybrid, unlike the Grand Cherokee, it constantly uses power from the battery to reduce fuel usage. It has several driving modes, ECO which reduces acceleration levels to increase fuel efficiency, EV which pulls power from the battery maximizing short-range efficiency. Sport mode gives a boost in acceleration, while Trail mode applies the brakes to individual wheels for better traction.
Safety and technology
The RAV4 Hybrid has plenty of safety and technology features as well. It even received a 9.4/10 score from U.S. News & World Report for safety. It comes with a plethora of standard safety features including lane trace assist, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and more. Add in a 7-inch (8-inch available) touch screen, WiFi hotspot, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and more, and you’ve got yourself a luxurious and spacious fuel-efficient SUV.
The brand new hybrid powertrain on the Jeep Grand Cherokee is something worth noticing. The fuel efficiency combined with offroad capability and technology makes it a worthy competitor for any opponent. The 57 MPGe is almost as impressive as its ability to tow 6,000 pounds. The Toyota RAV4 is one of the leaders in the segment but falls short in a few ways. Though the RAV4 Hybrid is not a plug-in hybrid, it is still a fantastic feature-filled family option. That’s the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vs. the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
