2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Honda CR-V

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, contributed to this perception. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's signature design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing the lighting and improving the paint finish and panel fit. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating, reminiscent of a Mercedes in style and quality.

The 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a cleaner and slightly more aggressive look compared to its predecessor. With a blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase, it presented a more conservative styling that was expected to age well. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass. Inside, the leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob were upgrades over the standard cloth upholstery. The dashboard, inspired by the latest Civic, included metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The CR-V's interior emphasized quality and simplicity, with features like a power-adjustable front passenger seat and a power rear liftgate. Prices in Canada started at $34,240 for the CR-V LX-B with front-wheel drive, with various trims offering additional features.

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, 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 towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which was noted for its droning noise during hard acceleration. Despite this, the CR-V was praised for its ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. The vehicle handled various road conditions with ease, providing a comfortable and engaging driving experience. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with a combined rating of 8.4 L/100 km, and the test vehicle averaged 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

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 captain's chairs standard in the second row and a 60/40 split bench available. A panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin experience, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious, with thoughtful storage solutions and USB ports for convenience.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest model yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered generous space, with a high seating position and ample legroom. Storage solutions were abundant, with a large bin under the centre armrest and various trays and bins throughout the cabin. The CR-V's cargo area provided 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded. The Hybrid model offered slightly less cargo space. The power tailgate and storage trays added convenience for transporting items.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, including 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 a McIntosh audio system, though lower trims had simpler stereo options.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on most trims. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch display, wireless connectivity, and an upgraded sound system. While the CR-V's technology was improved, it didn't surpass competitors, and some features were reserved for the top Touring Hybrid trim. The infotainment system was user-friendly, but the lack of a tuning knob on the EX-L was noted.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by major safety organizations, but it included standard driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured the Honda Sensing suite, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other standard safety features. New camera and radar units improved system accuracy, and the CR-V included a Traffic Jam Assist system. The vehicle's ACE body structure and new airbag designs enhanced collision protection. The IIHS rated the CR-V as a Top Safety Pick+, though the NHTSA had not yet tested it.