2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Dodge Durango

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. The vehicle maintained classic Jeep features like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer, brighter lighting and improved paint finish. The interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and a layout that rivaled premium brands, offering a sophisticated and comfortable experience for passengers.

The 2023 Dodge Durango, entering its 12th model year without a redesign, retained a familiar yet attractive appearance. Dodge opted for clean, car-like styling, avoiding oversized grilles and instead featuring slim styling with forward-leaning headlights and a large lower air intake. The rear showcased Dodge's signature "racetrack" taillights, giving the Durango a distinctive look. The SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models had subtle unique styling features, such as a Viper-like hood and unique wheels. The Durango offered various appearance packages, including the Blacktop and Hemi Orange packages, allowing for customization. The interior, while not as distinctive as the exterior, provided a comfortable space with materials suited to different price points, and the Citadel model added luxurious features like Nappa leather upholstery and heated seats.

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, four-wheel drive was standard, with three different systems available. The V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking for the vehicle's weight, requiring high revs to summon power. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, 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 at 16.7 L/100 km city, 10.9 highway, and 14.1 combined. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering adjustable ride heights and driving modes for various terrains. The vehicle's maximum towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered a range of powertrains, starting with the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower (295 hp with dual exhaust) and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7-litre Hemi V8, standard on the R/T and optional on the Citadel, delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The SRT 392 model featured a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 with 475 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds. The SRT Hellcat model boasted a 6.2-litre supercharged V8, producing 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of roughly 3.5 seconds. The Durango's performance was impressive, especially in the Hellcat model, though its size made it somewhat awkward on twisty roads. The vehicle's towing capacity ranged from 2,812 kilograms for V6 models to 3,946 kilograms for V8 models.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek interface. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were easy to use, and the central rotary shifter was intuitive. The vehicle offered ample space in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a 60/40 split bench available. A panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin experience, though the air vents were found to be insufficient in airflow. The Grand Cherokee L provided a spacious and comfortable environment for passengers, with thoughtful design elements for convenience.

The 2023 Dodge Durango was available in seven-seat or six-seat configurations, with standard front bucket seats, a second-row bench, and a third-row bench. The Citadel, SRT 392, and SRT Hellcat models featured second-row captain's chairs. The Durango offered competitive interior space compared to other midsize SUVs, though it had less cargo space than some rivals. Small-item storage was generous, with a large wireless charging pad and well-placed USB ports. The Durango's towing capacity was impressive, with V6 models capable of towing 2,812 kilograms and V8 models up to 3,946 kilograms. The vehicle prioritized on-road performance over off-road capability.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features on upper trims, including massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Active Driving Assist system provided steering assistance on highways. 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 included additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition. The Summit Reserve featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler audio options.

The 2023 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on lower trims, while higher trims had a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity. The Uconnect 5 system was responsive and user-friendly, with unique features for SRT models, such as performance information and Easter Eggs. The SRT and SRT Hellcat models included the Performance Pages app, providing detailed performance data. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on higher trims, enhancing the audio experience.

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

The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed results in IIHS tests, with "Good" marks in some areas but a "Marginal" score in the driver-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating, with five stars in the side crash test. Standard driver-assist tech was limited, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert included on all trims. Forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking were not standard but available on higher trims.