2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a notable extension of the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, with its "L" designation indicating a longer body to accommodate third-row seating. This model was 29 centimetres longer, with a wheelbase stretched by 12.7 centimetres, providing more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the additional length, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated by comparison. 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. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's signature design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer lighting and improved paint finish. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 drew styling cues from the G70 compact luxury sedan, particularly above the belt-line, with split-bar headlights and a chrome line that suggested a coupe-like SUV without sacrificing versatility. The GV70's interior was a testament to Genesis's luxury credentials, boasting top-notch materials and a design that was both contemporary and classic. The dashboard featured a full touchscreen with a rotary dial and button controls, offering a user-friendly experience. The GV70 was available in five trims in Canada, with the 2.5T and 3.5T powertrains, and an Electrified GV70 model. The base 2.5T Advanced trim was well-equipped, while higher trims added features like a Lexicon audio system, head-up display, and Nappa leather seating. The Electrified GV70 impressed with its luxury credentials and comfortable, high-contrast interior design.

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, with three different systems available. The V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but it struggled with the vehicle's weight, requiring high revs for power and resulting in a noisy cabin. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, offering 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 a highlight, with excellent ride composure and steering feel, aided by an optional air suspension with five ride height settings. The vehicle's off-road capabilities were commendable, though all-terrain tires were recommended for rougher trails.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine with 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70's turbo-four provided ample power for most driving situations, while the V6 catered to performance enthusiasts. The Electrified GV70 featured a 77.4-kWh battery powering two electric motors, producing a combined 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. The electric GV70 offered a range of 383 kilometres and fast charging capabilities. The GV70's handling was well-rounded, balancing comfort and sportiness, with the electric version leaning slightly more towards comfort.

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 complemented the touchscreen, providing ease of use. 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 option. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced long journeys, though the air vents were insufficient for proper airflow, necessitating a loud fan.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 818 litres with them in use. The GV70 featured a hands-free power liftgate and a well-designed centre console with cupholders and storage trays. Front-seat passengers enjoyed comfortable seating, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row adjustments. The rear bench reclined for added comfort.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's upper trims offered premium features like massage modes for the 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 included additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition, with a McIntosh audio system available on the Summit Reserve.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a rotary dial and buttons for control. The GV70 included four USB ports, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo, with options for ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and a Lexicon audio system.

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

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The GV70 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with additional features like a blind-spot camera system and reverse automatic emergency braking available on higher trims.