2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh pattern, complemented by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array. The SUV's design was both elegant and bold, with large wheel arches and a rear that mirrored the front's styling cues. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an extension of the well-known Grand Cherokee line, offering a longer body to accommodate a third row of seats. Its design was unmistakably Jeep, with a seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, but with modernized lighting and improved paint and panel fit. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and quilted Nappa leather, providing a premium feel. The vehicle's design was both functional and elegant, with ample space and comfort for passengers, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The V6 models came standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with an all-wheel-drive option. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and advanced suspension systems, including an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models. The GV80's fuel economy varied, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. A 4xe plug-in hybrid option was also available, providing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The Grand Cherokee L's V6 engine was found lacking in power for its size, while the V8 offered a more robust performance. The vehicle's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights. Fuel economy for the V6 was 21 mpg combined, while the V8 was less efficient at 17 mpg combined.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The center console and stack were designed with a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller, offering a tactile and intuitive interface. The GV80's second row was spacious and comfortable, with power-adjustable seats and luxury features like power window shades and climate control. A third row was available on select models, increasing passenger capacity to seven, though it was not as spacious as the second row.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L boasted a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The vehicle offered ample space in all rows, with the third row accommodating adults comfortably. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a bench seat option available. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with features like a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports, though the air vents were noted to be insufficient in airflow.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 14.5-inch HD screen with split-screen displays, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system supported cloud profiles and over-the-air updates, with a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also offered Genesis Connected Services, providing a range of remote and guidance features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features on upper trims, including massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional passenger touchscreen and rear-seat entertainment screens. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, with additional options like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition available on higher trims.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time, but it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, blind-spot collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered highway-driving assist and remote smart parking assist, enhancing its safety and convenience.

Similarly, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard safety features like driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a range of driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring, providing a safe and secure driving experience.