2023 BMW X1 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

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 the two-row version that followed in 2022. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's iconic design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer lighting and improved paint finishes. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

The 2023 BMW X1 presented itself as an evolution of its predecessor, with a stronger and more refined appearance. The larger, squarer kidney grille was less startling than other BMW models, and the flush door handles and standard LED lights added a modern touch. The X1's colour palette expanded significantly, offering 13 exterior options, including five new dynamic colours. The vehicle's design included options for larger wheels, with 20-inch wheels available for the first time. Inside, the X1's cabin was premium yet not overly luxurious, featuring the BMW Curved Display and SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings. The M Sport Package added sportier elements, while the Premium Essential Package included features like a panoramic moonroof and auto-dimming mirrors. The interior design was clean and uncluttered, with a sophisticated floating centre armrest and aluminum-finished door handles.

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, the Grand Cherokee L came standard with four-wheel drive, offering three different systems, while rear-wheel drive was not available. The V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, providing 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's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings for various driving conditions. The vehicle's off-road capabilities were enhanced with the Overland trim's Off-Road Group option, earning the Trail-Rated badge.

The 2023 BMW X1 received a power boost with its 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This improvement allowed the X1 to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and tow up to 1,587 kilograms. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the previous eight-speed automatic, providing a more engaging driving experience. The Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems were upgraded for better comfort and stability, minimizing body roll. The X1's fuel economy was rated at 9.6 L/100 km city, 7.0 highway, and 8.4 combined, with Premium fuel recommended. The vehicle's visibility was good, despite the narrow rear window, and the ride felt agile, akin to a smaller hatchback.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek graphics. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were easy to use, and the central rotary shifter was intuitive. The Laredo and Altitude trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch version. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row and a 60/40 split bench as an option. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced comfort, though the air vents were insufficient for airflow.

The 2023 BMW X1 boasted increased interior space, with impressive headroom and legroom measurements. Cargo space was generous, offering 727 litres behind the rear seats and 1,619 litres with them folded. Heated seats were part of the Premium Essential Package, which also included a heated steering wheel and wireless charging. The wireless charging pad was cleverly designed to secure the phone during spirited driving. The X1's interior felt spacious even with the optional sunroof, and the overall design was practical and user-friendly.

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. The Active Driving Assist system provided excellent steering on highways, and the navigation system integrated well with the instrument panel. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Summit trims added automatic parking and traffic sign recognition, while the Summit Reserve featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

The 2023 BMW X1 introduced the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, combining a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver display. The system was responsive, with effective voice commands and seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Premium Enhanced Package added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The X1 featured keyless entry, a start/stop button, and a new toggle-style gear selector. The vehicle automatically shifted into Park when shut off and activated the parking brake on slopes.

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

The 2023 BMW X1 included active blind-spot monitoring with an exit warning function and a front-collision warning system with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The Driving Assistant Professional suite offered features like speed limit assist and adaptive cruise control. A 360-degree camera system was available, along with Active Park Distance Control and Back-Up Assistant.