2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, moving away from its traditionally conservative styling to a more characterful yet distinctly Volvo appearance. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but introduced softer lines, increased chrome detailing, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most visually striking, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. The XC90's interior embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials like matte-finish wood and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined and thoughtfully arranged cabin.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended body to accommodate a third row, presented an elegant and recognizable Jeep design. The seven-slot grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and modernized lighting maintained the Jeep identity, while improved paint finish and panel fit elevated its appearance. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, with dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating, offering a premium feel akin to a Mercedes. Despite its size, the Grand Cherokee L provided ample space and comfort across all rows, with thoughtful features like a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhancing the passenger experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. While the XC90 provided a smooth ride with its optional air suspension, its small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 options. The XC90's towing capacity was 2,250 kg, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine choices: 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 felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, provided a more robust 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride quality and handling, with its chassis offering a composed and direct driving experience. The optional air suspension provided adjustable ride heights, enhancing both comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L's towing capacity was 3,265 kg, making it more suitable for heavier loads.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across all rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The interior felt spacious due to the power sunroof and upright roof profile. The XC90 offered limited storage space, with a shallow centre console and minimal storage options. Cargo capacity was 317 litres with all seats up, expanding to 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for essential controls. The interior offered generous space in all rows, with the third row accommodating adults comfortably. Standard captain's chairs in the second row provided six-person seating, with a bench seat option available. The panoramic roof and ample USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were insufficient for effective airflow. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was well-equipped, with a large central cubby and wireless phone charging.

The 2021 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system featured a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was intuitive, with a tablet-like interface, though the text was sometimes difficult to read while driving. The XC90 offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display as options. However, the wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and front USB ports were limited to older USB-A types.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology features, 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 the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Summit trims added features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition. The McIntosh audio system on the Summit Reserve provided high-quality sound, though not as powerful as the system in the Grand Wagoneer.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings, including a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, such as lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The XC90's front-crash prevention tech received top ratings, though pedestrian detection was rated slightly lower.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of writing. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and a range of driver aids. The Grand Cherokee L's safety features were comprehensive, though specific crash test ratings were not yet available.