2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 marked a significant step in Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a refined luxury brand. With updates from the previous year carrying over, the XT5 showcased a more sophisticated exterior with standard LED lights and a variety of wheel designs. The interior, particularly in the Premium Luxury trim, featured upscale materials like cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fibre accents, offering a level of elegance that was a step above its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer. The cabin design focused on simplicity and thoughtful material placement, enhancing the overall upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard Grand Cherokee, designed to accommodate third-row seating. Its exterior maintained Jeep's recognizable design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while offering modernized lighting and improved paint finish. The interior was luxurious, with high-end trims featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating. Despite its higher price point compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride, the Grand Cherokee L's interior quality and design were reminiscent of a Mercedes, providing a premium feel throughout the cabin.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which was smooth on upshifts but less refined on downshifts. The V6 engine provided immediate throttle response, though it could benefit from more low-end torque. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was better than expected, achieving 9.4 L/100 km during testing, compared to the estimated 11.2 L/100 km. The XT5 handled well, with FWD standard on the Luxury trim and AWD available or standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The V6, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, while the V8 offered a more robust performance. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city and 11.3 combined, with the V8 being less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride quality and handling, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights and a smooth driving experience. Its chassis offered impressive composure and steering precision, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults comfortably, though the rear seat's headroom was limited for taller passengers. Cargo space was 850 litres, with a deep rear area but limited width due to wheel bump-outs. The SUV featured a cargo-management system and a hands-free power liftgate. However, small-item storage was limited, with no ideal spot for a smartphone and small map pockets.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all three rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. The interior featured a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Grand Cherokee L's cabin was spacious, with captain's chairs standard in the second row and a panoramic roof enhancing the open feel. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and a rotary controller. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a subscription-based WiFi hotspot, and an available 14-speaker Bose sound system. The XT5 also had a rear camera mirror and a head-up display, enhancing its tech offerings.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L boasted advanced technology, with upper trims offering features like massage seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist standard. The Summit trims included additional features like automatic parking and a rear-facing camera for monitoring rear passengers.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 included safety features like front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-change alert. Night Vision technology was available, enhancing nighttime drivability. The XT5 also featured GM's Teen Driver software, allowing parents to monitor and limit vehicle features for young drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time, but it came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids. The Grand Cherokee L's safety features were comprehensive, though specific ratings were not available.