2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Volvo XC60

The 2021 Volvo XC60, a product of the Swedish brand now under the ownership of Geely Holding Group, showcased a blend of elegance and innovation. This crossover, positioned between the XC40 and XC90, was built on Volvo's SPA platform, sharing its architecture with other 60-series and 90-series vehicles. The XC60's design was characterized by its athletic form, with short overhangs and crisp details, while the front grille prominently displayed Volvo's iron mark logo. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, featuring clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a notable feature, and the attention to detail in elements like the HVAC vents elevated the XC60 to near-luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, introduced as an all-new model, was 29 centimetres longer than the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, accommodating third-row seats. Its design retained classic Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modern touches included slimmer lighting and improved paint finish. The interior of the Grand Cherokee L was luxurious, with high-end trims offering features like dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating. Despite its size, the Grand Cherokee L maintained a sense of elegance and comfort, with ample space in all rows and thoughtful details like a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 variant increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 models, being plug-in hybrids, combined a gasoline engine with an 87-hp electric motor, resulting in a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, with the Polestar Engineered version boosting power to 415 hp. The XC60's driving experience was marked by its solid and secure feel, smooth suspension, and quiet cabin, making it an excellent choice for road trips. Fuel consumption figures ranged from 11.1 L/100 km city to 9.3 L/100 km combined for the T8 PHEV.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 produced 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, but was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, while the V8 delivered a more robust 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city and 11.3 L/100 km combined, while the V8 was less efficient at 16.7 L/100 km city and 14.1 L/100 km combined. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in handling and offered a maximum towing capacity of 3,265 kilograms.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was designed with comfort and practicality in mind, featuring highly adjustable front seats and a heating system capable of handling harsh winter conditions. The interior offered smart storage solutions and intuitive controls, with 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded. The XC60 was also capable of towing up to 1,587 kilograms.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L prioritized user-friendly technology with its Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The interior was spacious, with captain's chairs in the second row and an optional 60/40 split bench seat. Despite some issues with air vent size and system lag, the Grand Cherokee L provided ample room for passengers and cargo, with thoughtful features like a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports.

The 2021 Volvo XC60's Sensus infotainment system featured a tablet-style touchpad interface, offering smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system's portrait orientation and function quadrants were intuitive for some users, though there was a learning curve. The Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system was a standout feature.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features on upper trims, including massage modes for front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with adaptive cruise control and other driver aids standard. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, though lower trims had less impressive sound systems.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was a testament to Volvo's commitment to safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, and Volvo's semi-autonomous Pilot Assist system. The XC60's top speed was limited to 180 km/h for safety reasons.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not yet been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, 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 at the time.