2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Chevrolet Blazer

In Canada, the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer was available in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trim levels. The LT featured a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while other trims came with a standard V6 engine and AWD. The RS trim boasted a sophisticated twin-clutch AWD system for better performance on low-traction surfaces. The 2022 model saw minimal changes, with the Premier trim receiving updated bumper and bodyside trim, and redesigned wheels. Two-tone paint options were introduced for the LT and RS trims. The Blazer's pricing ranged from $37,498 to $47,598, excluding a $1,900 destination charge from Mexico. The RS test vehicle, with additional features, was priced at $53,358. The Blazer's design, inspired by the Camaro, was visually appealing, especially with 20-inch wheels. However, the black trim on the rear bumper gave it an unfinished look. Inside, the Camaro influence was evident in the infotainment and climate control systems, with an 8-inch touchscreen and innovative air vents. Despite the presence of hard plastics, the red interior accents in the RS trim added sophistication.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, since its debut, had been a popular choice, maintaining its classic design with a modern twist. The L model extended the Grand Cherokee by over 30 centimetres, enhancing its luxury appeal. The Hydro Blue test model featured the High Altitude package, which included blacked-out elements and gloss black interior accents, paired with dark gray 21-inch wheels. The interior, especially in upper trims, was impressive, with high-quality materials and a polished black dash hiding an optional touchscreen. The Grand Cherokee L's design combined traditional Jeep elements with modern features, ensuring it remained stylish and durable. The interior offered a luxurious experience, with diamond-patterned stitching and aluminum speaker grilles. While not every material was top-tier, the overall feel was superior to many competitors. The Grand Cherokee L's design and interior quality made it a standout in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, with driving modes including Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul. Higher trims came with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, generating 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, paired with a dual-clutch AWD system in the RS trim. The V6 could tow up to 2,040 kilograms, significantly more than the base engine. The Blazer RS offered a firm and sporty driving experience, with decent grip and capable brakes. However, its performance on winding roads was less impressive, with a bouncy suspension and slow downshifts. The steering in Sport mode felt artificially heavy, and the SUV's driving dynamics didn't match its sporty appearance. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres, but the test vehicle averaged 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard engine was the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. While the engine was quiet, it lacked low-end torque, making it less suitable for the heavy SUV. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for better performance and towing capacity of up to 3,265 kilograms. The V8 also offered a more satisfying sound. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8's ratings were worse. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, with air suspension ensuring a smooth ride. The steering could be quicker, but the overall handling was top-notch. The SUV featured three 4WD systems, with permanent 4WD ensuring all wheels were always engaged. The air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance, making the Grand Cherokee L a capable off-road vehicle.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a comfortable and practical interior. The RS test vehicle featured black leather upholstery with red perforations, giving it a sporty look. The steering wheel was comfortable, with power tilt and telescopic adjustment and heating. The front seats provided power adjustment and optional ventilation, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. Dual-zone automatic climate control was standard, with effective air conditioning and rear air vents. The back seat was spacious, with sliding functionality for added cargo or passenger space. Storage options included a large glove compartment, centre armrest bin, and door panel shelves. The Blazer's cargo area measured 864 litres, expanding to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded, though these numbers were small for a midsize SUV.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided ample legroom for second-row passengers. Standard second-row captain's chairs and optional 60/40 bench seats offered flexibility. The third row was best suited for children, with power-folding functionality. The Summit and Summit Reserve trims featured a centre console with storage, four-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. Visibility from the driver's seat was good, with intuitive button placement for various controls. Cargo space was generous, with 481 litres behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded, making it one of the largest in its class.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen. The RS trim included power-adjustable front seats with heating and optional ventilation. Dual-zone automatic climate control was standard, with effective air conditioning and rear air vents. Storage options were plentiful, with a large glove compartment, centre armrest bin, and door panel shelves. The Blazer's cargo area measured 864 litres, expanding to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded. The power rear liftgate, available on most trims, offered hands-free operation, though its success rate was inconsistent.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology features. The Laredo and Altitude trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument panel. Higher trims featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation. Uconnect 5 provided a user-friendly interface, though some legibility issues were noted. The McIntosh sound system, available on upper trims, offered good audio quality. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. Night vision and Active Driving Assist were available on higher trims. The passenger screen, active only when a passenger was seated, allowed for independent media control and navigation assistance. The Grand Cherokee L's tech features set it apart from competitors.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. A rear-seat reminder system and Teen Driver technology were also standard. Available safety upgrades included a vibrating Safety Alert Seat, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Blazer's safety features were effective, though its headlights received low ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023, with reinforced frames for better side-impact protection. It also received five stars from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included front knee airbags, forward emergency braking, rear park assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking, 360-degree cameras, and night vision on higher trims.