2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a familial resemblance with the Nissan Armada, boasting a platform and mechanical similarities. Despite its large size, the QX80 was considered well-proportioned, with a distinctive front-end styling marked by the Infiniti grille. The tasteful integration of LED lighting and conservative chrome use added to its upscale appearance, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 featured upscale materials like wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, though its design was seen as somewhat outdated compared to competitors in the premium SUV market.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an elegant extension of the standard Grand Cherokee, with a longer body to accommodate third-row seating. Its design retained classic Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, enhanced by modernized lighting and improved paint finish. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials such as real wood and Palermo leather, offering a feel akin to a Mercedes. The spacious cabin, even in the third row, and features like a panoramic roof and ample USB ports, made it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and seamless shifts. The QX80's four-wheel drive system, based on the Nissan Patrol, offered impressive off-road capabilities, with a computer-controlled transfer case and over 23 centimetres of ground clearance. It had a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms, making it suitable for hauling large trailers. Despite its size, the QX80 managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, with 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking for the vehicle's weight, while the V8 provided a more satisfying 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings. Its maximum towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, and it featured advanced driving modes for various terrains.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, with a spacious interior offering good head- and legroom in the front seats. It could seat up to eight passengers, though the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The power-operated moonroof and liftgate added convenience, though they were slower in operation.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. It offered ample space in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. The cabin was equipped with a panoramic roof and numerous USB ports, though the air vents were less effective. Seating configurations included standard captain's chairs in the second row, with a bench seat option available.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, while based on an older design, included a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. However, the absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was notable, limiting advanced driver assistance features.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, such as massage modes for front seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids were standard, with additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition available on higher trims. The Summit Reserve trim included a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. It also included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The NHTSA had not rated the 2022 model, but the structurally similar 2021 model received mixed ratings.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard safety features such as driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.