2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, while not particularly striking in its exterior design, made significant strides in its interior aesthetics. The GLE's exterior, despite its aggressive front nose and sloping hood, failed to maintain a distinct identity past the A-pillar, often blending into the background when compared to its more stylish competitors like the BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne. The AMG trim attempted to add a sporty flair, but it still couldn't match the visual appeal of rivals. However, the interior was a different story. Mercedes transformed the GLE's cabin into a luxurious space with high-quality materials, a bold red and black colour scheme, and innovative design elements like LED-outlined grab handles. The interior's craftsmanship and attention to detail were commendable, offering a sense of opulence that rivalled even the most premium SUVs.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L presented a more cohesive and elegant design, both inside and out. The L model, with its extended body to accommodate a third row, maintained a balanced and recognizable Jeep aesthetic. The exterior featured the iconic seven-slot grille and modernized lighting, while the interior was a testament to Jeep's commitment to luxury. The Grand Cherokee L's cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, including real wood and Palermo leather, and offered ample space for passengers in all three rows. The design was both functional and stylish, with thoughtful touches like a panoramic roof and numerous USB ports. Despite some minor issues with air vent size and noise, the Grand Cherokee L's interior was a comfortable and inviting space for long journeys.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its advanced suspension and engine technologies. The GLE offered five suspension configurations, with the base GLE 350 using a reliable coil-sprung setup. The GLE 450 featured AIRMATIC self-leveling air springs, while the AMG models boasted AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control, providing exceptional handling and ride quality. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, added 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, enhancing throttle response and efficiency. The GLE 350 delivered 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the GLE 450 offered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft. The AMG GLE 53 and GLE 63 S pushed performance further with 429 hp and 450 hp, respectively. Despite its size, the GLE handled like a smaller sedan and could tow up to 3,500 kg.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, while the V8, with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, provided a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a standout feature, offering excellent ride composure and steering feel. The optional air suspension provided five ride height settings, enhancing both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L could tow up to 3,265 kg, making it a versatile choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior with optional third-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The second-row seats featured power controls for added comfort, while the Coupe body style was limited to five passengers. Cargo capacity was generous, with 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe's design, however, limited rear passenger space and ease of access due to its sloping roofline and large rear tires. The GLE's MBUX infotainment system improved usability with a simplified interface and touchpad controls, though some features required setup before driving.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L prioritized simplicity and functionality with its Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The interface was sleek and user-friendly, with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all three rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row. The panoramic roof and numerous USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were less effective. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was well-designed, providing a comfortable and spacious environment for long journeys.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen featuring Interior Assistant, which responded to hand gestures. The system included a Track Pace app for AMG models, seat kinetics, and a customizable head-up display. The GLE offered a range of luxury features, including heated armrests, ambient lighting, and a natural voice assistant. The navigation system projected directions onto the front camera feed, and the semi-automated functionality provided advanced driving assistance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features, particularly in upper trims. These included massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and an Active Driving Assist system. The navigation system integrated with the instrument panel, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereo options.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It offered a range of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE also included Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for added protection in a crash.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not yet been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.