2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle that often drew comparisons to high-end models like the Lamborghini Urus, thanks to its aggressive styling. Its wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and sawblade 20-inch wheels contributed to its bold appearance. The Blazer's exterior design was a departure from Chevy's typically utilitarian SUVs, borrowing elements from the Camaro to create a more dynamic and memorable look. However, the interior did not match the exterior's flair, with a low-rent feel and materials that seemed below par for its price range. The cabin was predominantly dark, with limited options for customization, which detracted from the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an elegant and recognizable Jeep, with a design that seamlessly integrated its extended length for third-row seating. The Grand Cherokee L maintained classic Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer lighting and improved paint finishes. The interior was a significant step up, offering luxury comparable to premium brands, with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. Even in all-black, the cabin provided enough detail and contrast to keep passengers comfortable, and the available lighter tan leather added a touch of luxury. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was a testament to Jeep's commitment to quality and comfort.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered two engine options in Canada, with the base being a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The more desirable option was the 3.6-litre V6, delivering 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, providing a strong and agile driving experience. The Blazer's sport-tuned suspension and mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle on the RS trim enhanced its handling capabilities. However, the transmission calibration had issues, particularly in Sport mode, where it was slow to respond and lacked paddle shifters for manual control. Fuel consumption ratings for the AWD V6 were average, at 12.0 L/100 km city, 8.7 highway, and 10.5 combined.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine choices: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-litre V8 with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The V6 was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, while the V8 provided a more satisfying performance. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a standout feature, offering excellent ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension that adjusted ride height and comfort levels. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8 was less efficient at 16.7 L/100 km city, 10.9 highway, and 14.1 combined.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers. Its low roof height did not compromise interior space, thanks to seats mounted lower into the floor. However, visibility was a concern due to poor sightlines, mitigated somewhat by large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera systems. The Blazer offered 1,818 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 864 litres with them raised. It had a maximum towing capacity of 2,041 kilograms with the right configuration. The Blazer's controls were user-friendly, with features like movable rings around air vents for temperature control and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provided ample space across all three rows, with even the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. The second row featured standard captain's chairs, with a 60/40 split bench as an option. The interior was designed for comfort on long journeys, with a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports. However, the air vents were insufficient in size, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious and well-equipped, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer came with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring Chevrolet Infotainment 3, known for its simplicity and speed. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. The RS trim added features like wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and a Safety Alert Seat. The infotainment system offered navigation, onboard apps, and the ability to upload settings to a GM cloud account. Privacy settings for apps were a thoughtful addition, allowing users to manage data collection.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was sleek and user-friendly, with physical switches for essential controls. Upper trims offered advanced features like massage seats, a head-up display, and night vision. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. The Summit trims added features like automatic parking and a rear-facing camera for monitoring rear passengers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer included standard safety features such as forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" and "Poor." The Blazer lacked semi-automated driving functions and rear emergency braking.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time. It came with standard driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, enhancing its appeal as a family vehicle.