2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from the Honda Pilot, with enhanced proportions including a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance for a more elegant appearance. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and modern exterior design. Built in East Liberty, Ohio, the MDX showcased high craftsmanship and quality. Inside, the MDX's cabin was modernized with a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered comfort and adjustability, making the MDX a luxurious choice.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic style of its predecessors while extending its length by over 30 centimetres. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured a bold design with blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels. The interior of upper trims was impressive, with high-quality materials and a polished black dash hiding an optional touchscreen. The Grand Cherokee L offered a solid and stiff chassis for confident handling, with air suspension providing a smooth ride. The steering, while not the quickest, was adequate for most driving situations. The Grand Cherokee L's design and features made it a luxurious and capable SUV, appealing to those seeking a blend of style and functionality.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup for improved handling, and the vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its solid ride feel and smooth transmission, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard Pentastar V6 engine delivered 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but it was considered underwhelming for the SUV's size. A 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine was available, offering 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving towing capacity and performance. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance. The SUV's four-wheel-drive systems offered versatility, but the steering could have been more responsive. Despite its engine limitations, the Grand Cherokee L's handling and off-road capabilities were commendable.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating arrangements with comfortable first and second rows, and a third row suitable for children. The second row featured a removable centre section and adjustable seats for optimal legroom. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate included convenient features like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access. The interior lighting was customizable, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided generous legroom for second-row passengers. Standard second-row captain's chairs and optional bench seating offered flexibility. The third row was best suited for children, and the power liftgate and panoramic sunroof added convenience. The Grand Cherokee L boasted impressive cargo space, with a maximum capacity of 2,407 litres. The SUV's interior featured a well-organized layout, but some infotainment graphics were difficult to read.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, delivering exceptional sound quality. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, offering a range of connectivity options, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX also included Amazon Alexa integration, a head-up display, and a WiFi hotspot, ensuring a tech-savvy driving experience.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with Uconnect 5, offering an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. The McIntosh sound system was available on upper trims, providing good audio quality. The Grand Cherokee L featured night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen for entertainment and navigation control. The SUV's tech offerings were extensive, with features like a head-up display and rear entertainment system enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS and was engineered with a high percentage of high-strength steel for collision protection. The MDX included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist, ensuring a safe driving experience.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for models built after May 2023. It scored five stars in most NHTSA tests, with four stars in rollover tests. The Grand Cherokee L offered standard safety features like forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional options available on higher trims.