2022 Subaru Outback Vs. Jeep Cherokee: Which Is Best?

Hey guys, let's dive into a showdown between two titans of the SUV world: the 2022 Subaru Outback and the 2022 Jeep Cherokee. If you're in the market for a versatile vehicle that can handle your daily commute as well as your weekend adventures, you're probably weighing these two options. But which one truly deserves a spot in your driveway? We're going to break down everything you need to know, from performance and interior comfort to off-road prowess and safety features. Get ready, because this is the comparison you've been waiting for!

The 2022 Subaru Outback: Your Go-Anywhere Adventure Buddy

When we talk about the 2022 Subaru Outback, we're talking about a vehicle that truly defines the term 'wagon-SUV crossover'. It's got the ruggedness and capability you'd expect from an SUV, but with a lower center of gravity and a more car-like driving dynamic that many folks absolutely love. Subaru has built a reputation for all-wheel drive being standard on all their models, and the Outback is no exception. This means whether you're tackling snowy roads, gravel trails, or just slick city streets, you've got confidence-inspiring traction. The Outback's ground clearance is also seriously impressive, often outperforming many traditional SUVs, making it a fantastic choice for those who like to explore off the beaten path. The 2022 model continues this legacy, offering two distinct engine options. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine provides a respectable amount of power for everyday driving, but if you're looking for a bit more oomph, the optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine found in the XT models is an absolute blast. It delivers exhilarating acceleration that makes highway merging and overtaking a breeze. Beyond the powertrain, the Outback's interior is a major selling point. Subaru consistently delivers a cabin that is both practical and comfortable. You'll find durable materials, a thoughtfully designed layout, and plenty of passenger space, especially in the rear seats. The cargo area is also cavernous, easily swallowing up luggage, sports equipment, or whatever else you need to haul. Infotainment is handled by Subaru's user-friendly STARLINK system, featuring either a standard 7-inch or an available 11.6-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, keeping you connected on the go. But what really sets the Outback apart is its commitment to safety. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is renowned for its comprehensive suite of active safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and more. It's like having an extra set of eyes on the road, giving you peace of mind on every journey. Whether you're a city dweller looking for a reliable daily driver or an outdoor enthusiast craving weekend escapes, the 2022 Subaru Outback offers a compelling blend of capability, comfort, and safety that's hard to beat. It’s a vehicle that’s designed to be lived in, to take you places, and to do it all with a sense of rugged refinement that’s uniquely Subaru.

The 2022 Jeep Cherokee: Trail-Rated Toughness and Iconic Style

Now, let's switch gears and talk about the 2022 Jeep Cherokee. When you hear the name 'Jeep', you immediately think of off-road capability, and the Cherokee absolutely lives up to that reputation. This is the vehicle for those who crave adventure and want a machine that's genuinely built to conquer challenging terrain. The Cherokee offers Jeep's legendary 4x4 systems, including the capable Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, which allows you to dial in the perfect setting for snow, sand, mud, or rock crawling. For the truly adventurous, the Trailhawk model takes things to the next level with enhanced off-road hardware, making it one of the most trail-rated SUVs in its class. But don't think the Cherokee is just about mud and rocks; it's also a competent daily driver with a surprisingly comfortable ride for its segment. Under the hood, you have a choice of three distinct engines. The standard 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir engine offers decent fuel economy, but for more power, you can opt for the responsive 3.2-liter Pentastar V6, which provides ample grunt for both daily driving and towing. If you're looking for turbocharged performance, the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine is a fantastic option, delivering strong acceleration and good torque. The 2022 Jeep Cherokee's interior has been refined over the years to offer a blend of rugged design and modern amenities. You'll find comfortable seating, intuitive controls, and a user-friendly infotainment system powered by Jeep's Uconnect system. Available in various screen sizes, it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected. While perhaps not as cavernous as the Outback, the Cherokee still offers a practical amount of cargo space for your gear. What truly sets the Cherokee apart, however, is its iconic Jeep styling and its undeniable off-road heritage. It looks tough, it feels tough, and it performs tough when the pavement ends. Jeep has also prioritized safety, equipping the Cherokee with a range of available driver-assist features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and adaptive cruise control, ensuring you feel secure on all your travels. For those who demand the ultimate in off-road prowess and appreciate the legendary Jeep DNA, the 2022 Cherokee remains a compelling choice. It’s a vehicle that’s ready for anything, a true testament to Jeep’s commitment to building capable and adventurous SUVs.

Performance and Powertrain: What's Under the Hood?

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty, guys: what makes these engines tick? When you're comparing the 2022 Subaru Outback and the 2022 Jeep Cherokee, the powertrain options are a huge factor in deciding which is right for you. The Subaru Outback offers two distinct choices that cater to different driving needs. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine. Now, 'boxer' just means the cylinders are arranged flat, which helps lower the center of gravity – a big win for stability and handling, especially in slippery conditions. This engine is smooth and perfectly adequate for daily commuting, city driving, and general highway cruising. It’s not going to win any drag races, but it gets the job done reliably and efficiently. For those who want more excitement, the Outback offers an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, found in the XT models (like the Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, and Touring XT). This turbo mill is a game-changer. It provides a significant boost in horsepower and torque, making acceleration much more lively. Merging onto the highway feels effortless, and overtaking is a cinch. Plus, it’s still paired with Subaru’s excellent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that's tuned for a good balance of responsiveness and fuel efficiency. Now, let's look at the Jeep Cherokee. It really ups the ante with its engine variety. The base engine is a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir four-cylinder. It’s functional, but many drivers find it a bit underpowered, especially when loaded or at higher altitudes. Where the Cherokee starts to shine is with its optional engines. First up is the 3.2-liter Pentastar V6. This engine is a classic for Jeep, offering a nice balance of power, a pleasing V6 growl, and respectable towing capability. It’s a great all-around performer that feels strong and refined. Then there's the punchy 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This option delivers impressive torque, making the Cherokee feel quick and agile. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want performance without sacrificing too much fuel economy. Unlike the Outback's standard AWD, the Cherokee offers multiple 4x4 systems, allowing you to tailor your vehicle to your needs. You can get basic 4x4, a more robust system for off-roading, or the ultimate setup on the Trailhawk. So, if you're looking for a smooth, stable ride with standard AWD and the option for a potent turbo or a solid base engine, the Outback is your guy. If you crave more engine choices, including a V6, and truly specialized off-road systems, the Cherokee might be calling your name. It really comes down to whether you prioritize Subaru's balanced approach or Jeep's focused trail capability.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Your Mobile Living Room

Alright, let's talk about where you'll be spending most of your time: the cabin. Both the 2022 Subaru Outback and the 2022 Jeep Cherokee offer comfortable and functional interiors, but they approach it from slightly different angles. The Subaru Outback is known for its spacious and practical interior design. Subaru has really nailed the ergonomics, making everything easy to reach and understand. The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially on longer journeys. You'll find a generous amount of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a great choice for families or groups. The materials used throughout the cabin feel durable and high-quality, designed to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle. Whether it's sand from the beach or mud from a trail, the Outback's interior is built to be cleaned up easily. The infotainment system is handled by Subaru's STARLINK system. Standard models get a 7-inch touchscreen, but higher trims boast a large, vertically oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen that's pretty intuitive to use. It seamlessly integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so your smartphone's features are right there on the big screen. The Outback also excels in cargo space. With the rear seats up, you have ample room for groceries or gear, and when you fold them down, you unlock a massive cargo hold that can easily accommodate camping equipment, sports gear, or even flat-pack furniture. It truly feels like a mobile cargo van when you need it to be!

Now, the Jeep Cherokee offers a different kind of interior experience. It's often described as more rugged and driver-focused. The seats are comfortable and offer good support, especially the bolstered seats in the sportier trims. While it might not feel quite as airy or spacious as the Outback, the Cherokee still provides a good amount of passenger comfort, particularly for the front occupants. The design language leans into Jeep's adventurous spirit, with durable materials that can handle off-road abuse. The Uconnect infotainment system in the Cherokee is one of the best in the business. It's known for its crisp graphics, quick response times, and user-friendly interface. Available in various screen sizes, it also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected to your digital life. Cargo space in the Cherokee is practical, though generally less than what the Outback offers. However, for most daily needs and weekend trips, it's more than sufficient. Jeep also offers clever storage solutions within the cabin, making it easy to stow away smaller items. Where the Cherokee might have an edge for some is in its available premium features and sportier interior feel, especially in the higher trims or performance-oriented models. So, if spaciousness, practicality, and a user-friendly tech interface are your top priorities, the Outback likely wins. If you prefer a more driver-centric feel with a robust infotainment system and a cabin that exudes adventure, the Cherokee makes a strong case.

Off-Road Capability: Who Conquers the Trails?

This is where the rubber meets the road, or rather, where the tires meet the dirt! When we're talking about the 2022 Subaru Outback versus the 2022 Jeep Cherokee, the off-road capability is a massive differentiator. The Subaru Outback, while not a dedicated off-roader in the same vein as some Jeeps, is surprisingly capable, especially for its class. Remember that standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system? It's brilliant. It constantly monitors traction and distributes power to the wheels that have the most grip. Combined with its excellent ground clearance (often 8.7 inches standard, and even more on the Wilderness trim), the Outback can handle dirt roads, gravel paths, snow-covered streets, and moderate trails with confidence. The Subaru Outback Wilderness trim, specifically, is engineered for enhanced off-road performance. It features higher ground clearance (9.5 inches!), all-terrain tires, revised suspension, and a dedicated off-road mode for the traction control system. This makes it a genuinely competent vehicle for venturing further off the beaten path than many might expect from a wagon-like SUV. It’s designed for overlanding and tackling tougher terrain, offering a great balance for those who want both on-road comfort and off-road adventure.

Now, let's talk about the Jeep Cherokee. This is where the Jeep badge truly shines. The Cherokee is built with trail-rated heritage in mind. It offers multiple 4x4 systems, including the impressive Selec-Terrain system. This allows you to manually select different modes (like Snow, Sport, Rock, and Mud/Sand) to optimize traction and performance for various conditions. For the ultimate off-road experience, the Cherokee Trailhawk is the one to beat. It comes standard with Jeep's most capable 4x4 system, increased ground clearance, skid plates, tow hooks, red tow hooks, and an electronic locking rear differential. This setup allows the Trailhawk to tackle serious rock crawling and challenging trails that would leave most other SUVs, including the standard Outback, struggling. The articulation of its suspension is designed to keep wheels on the ground even on uneven terrain, maximizing grip. So, if your idea of an adventure involves challenging rock crawling, deep mud, or serious off-road excursions, the Jeep Cherokee, particularly the Trailhawk model, is the undisputed champion. However, if your off-roading involves more dirt roads, snowy trails, and tackling moderate uneven terrain while prioritizing on-road comfort and fuel efficiency, the Subaru Outback (especially the Wilderness trim) is an incredibly capable and well-rounded option. It bridges the gap between a standard SUV and a dedicated off-roader remarkably well.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Every Drive

When you're behind the wheel, especially with family or friends, safety is paramount. Both the 2022 Subaru Outback and the 2022 Jeep Cherokee take this very seriously, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, though Subaru often gets the nod for its standard offerings. The Subaru Outback is renowned for its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which comes standard on most trims. This isn't just a few scattered features; it's a sophisticated suite that includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keep Assist. What's fantastic is that these advanced safety systems are typically standard, meaning you don't have to pay extra for crucial protection. The Outback's excellent visibility, combined with these active safety features, contributes to its strong safety ratings and gives drivers a real sense of security. The chassis itself is also designed with safety in mind, providing robust protection in the event of a collision. It’s a holistic approach to safety that Subaru has perfected over the years.

The Jeep Cherokee also comes equipped with a solid array of safety and driver-assistance features. While some of the more advanced systems might be optional or reserved for higher trim levels, you can still get features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, forward collision warning with active braking, and lane departure warning with lane keep assist. Jeep's Uconnect system often integrates these warnings into its interface, keeping the driver informed. The Cherokee also benefits from a strong structure designed to protect occupants. For those who prioritize active safety and want advanced driver aids standard across the board, the Subaru Outback often has a slight edge due to its comprehensive standard EyeSight suite. However, the Jeep Cherokee still provides excellent safety for its class, and with the right options, you can equip it with a very robust set of protective technologies. Ultimately, both vehicles offer the technologies needed for a safe drive, but Subaru's standard offering is a compelling argument for many buyers.

Which One is Right for You?

So, after all this talk, the big question remains: which SUV is the right choice for you? It really boils down to your priorities, guys. If you're looking for a vehicle that offers exceptional all-around capability, supreme comfort for daily driving and long trips, impressive standard safety features, and a vast cargo area, the 2022 Subaru Outback is likely your winner. It's the ultimate adventure wagon that’s just as happy navigating a grocery store parking lot as it is exploring a forest service road. Its standard AWD and excellent ground clearance make it a confident performer in almost any weather condition, and the EyeSight system provides unparalleled peace of mind.

On the other hand, if your heart truly lies in off-roading, you crave genuine trail-rated performance, iconic Jeep styling, and a wider variety of powertrain options (including that sweet V6), then the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is probably the vehicle for you. It’s the more dedicated adventurer, ready to tackle tougher trails and more extreme conditions, especially in its Trailhawk configuration. It offers a more traditional SUV feel with its higher driving position and robust build.

In summary:

• Choose the Subaru Outback if: You need a comfortable, safe, and spacious daily driver with excellent all-weather capability and good off-road chops for light to moderate trails. You value standard safety tech and a huge cargo hold.
• Choose the Jeep Cherokee if: You are a serious off-roader, or want the option to be one, with legendary Jeep capability. You prefer the Jeep driving experience and styling, and need more potent engine choices like the V6.

Both are fantastic vehicles, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Test drive both and see which one speaks to your adventurous spirit!