2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, extending 29 centimetres to accommodate third-row seating. Its wheelbase stretched an additional 12.7 cm, providing more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the extra length, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, as an all-new 2021 model, set a high standard for elegance and recognizability, with signature Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX offered both standard and Type S versions, with various trim packages enhancing equipment levels. The Type S, with its subtle design cues, featured chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, maintaining a subdued yet appealing appearance. Inside, the MDX Type S boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls challenging to use. The MDX Type S aimed to deliver a luxury experience, but certain elements, such as the electronic transmission switchgear, were less intuitive, occasionally causing confusion.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, 4WD was standard, with three systems available. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, provided a more satisfying performance. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings for various terrains.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, generating 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's SH-AWD system. Despite performance enhancements, the Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance, with squealing tires and poor brake pedal modulation. Fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.9 L/100 km, falling short of official ratings. The MDX Type S's performance upgrades didn't gel into a cohesive whole, making it less predictable and less enjoyable for driving enthusiasts.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The interior offered ample space, with captain's chairs in the second row and an optional 60/40 split bench. The third row could accommodate adults comfortably, and a panoramic roof and USB ports enhanced long journeys. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating, with the option to remove the centre section of the second row for easier access to the third row. The Type S Ultra trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't hold occupants in place as expected. The MDX offered decent cargo space, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The cabin's design prioritized style over storage, with limited space for personal items.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered 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, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids standard. The Summit trims added features like automatic parking and a McIntosh audio system.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, operated via a True Touchpad Interface (TTI). While the TTI aimed to improve interaction, it was less intuitive than touchscreens, and the design limited storage space. The MDX supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The top-tier audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the Platinum Elite and Type S Ultra packages included a head-up display.

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

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it had some issues with false lane-departure notifications and adaptive cruise control response.