2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Nissan Kicks showcased a bold exterior redesign, aligning with the new faces of other Nissan models like the Armada and Rogue. Its front featured a distinctive "double V-motion" grille, combining chrome and piano black elements, while the headlights were elongated and sleek. The top-tier SR and SR Premium trims boasted LED multi-reflector headlights and fog lights. At the rear, a new bumper and LED taillights added to its proportional design, though the trunk area seemed less refined. New paint options like Electric Blue Metallic and Scarlet Ember Tintcoat enhanced its visual appeal, and the two-tone paint job option with a floating roof added an upmarket look. The SR Premium trim included sporty features like LED accents and a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended body, offered a sophisticated and recognizable Jeep design. Its seven-slot grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and modernized lighting maintained the classic Jeep aesthetic. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating. The Grand Cherokee L's design was elegant across all trims, with the Summit and Summit Reserve adding black roofs and chrome accents. Despite its size, the vehicle maintained a cohesive look, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated in comparison.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks was powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive, it offered nimble handling aided by electric power-assisted steering and a front independent strut suspension. While not particularly powerful, it provided a good power-to-weight ratio for its class. The Kicks featured standard traction and stability control systems, and its fuel efficiency was rated at 7.7 L/100 km in the city and 6.6 on the highway.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre V6 with 293 horsepower and a 5.7-litre V8 with 357 horsepower. The V6, though underpowered for the vehicle's size, was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V8 provided a more robust performance. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering precision, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings. Its fuel efficiency was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city for the V6 and 16.7 L/100 km for the V8.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks maximized its compact size with accessible controls and ample small-item storage. It featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks offered best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited for larger drivers. The rear seats comfortably accommodated adults, and a tonneau cover provided hidden storage.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with sleek graphics and physical switches for climate and stereo controls. It offered spacious seating across all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row. The panoramic roof and ample USB ports enhanced comfort, though the air vents were less effective. The Grand Cherokee L provided a large central cubby and wireless phone charging.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came equipped with a 7-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The SR Premium trim included a Bose Personal Plus sound system with headrest speakers and a surround-view monitor. The Kicks SV added features like Nissan Intelligent Key and remote engine start.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features on upper trims, including massage seats, a head-up display, and night vision. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system were standard. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereo options.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks included Nissan Safety Shield 360 with features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. It had 10 airbags and adaptive cruise control on higher trims. The 2021 model received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.