2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Kia Telluride

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 its two-row counterpart released later. 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 finishes. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

The 2023 Kia Telluride received updates in styling and features, particularly in the X-Line and X-Pro models. It showcased fresh front and rear designs, updated lighting, and new wheel options. New paint colours like Midnight Lake Blue and interior shades such as Terracotta added to its appeal. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension and unique design elements, while the X-Pro further enhanced off-road capabilities with all-terrain tires. Interior updates included a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass. The Telluride's interior changes were subtle but effective, with new colours and a more functional centre console. The SUV was available in various trims, starting at $50,195 for the EX with AWD, and the X-Pro topping the range at $62,795.

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, while RWD was not offered. 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, 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's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings. The SUV's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its driving modes, similar to Land Rover's, and a maximum towing capacity of 3,265 kg.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with a low-speed Lock setting for the AWD system. The Telluride's fuel efficiency was commendable, averaging 9.8 L/100 km in the X-Line and 11.5 L/100 km in the X-Pro, with official ratings at 11.4 L/100 km combined. The X-Line and X-Pro models featured a raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and a new Downhill Brake Control system. The X-Pro was particularly suited for off-road adventures, with all-terrain tires and an increased towing capacity of 2,495 kg. The Telluride's on-road performance was smooth and comfortable, with a soft ride quality and minimal wind noise, although the off-road tires made it feel slightly squishier in turns.

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 Laredo and Altitude trims had 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 comfort, though the air vents were insufficient for airflow, requiring a noisy fan on high.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and ventilated, and the third row was more comfortable than many competitors. The Telluride offered ample storage space, with a smart power tailgate and generous cargo capacity. With the third row folded, it provided 1,304 litres of space, expanding to 2,455 litres with both rear rows down. The interior featured manual sunshades, USB ports, and overhead climate controls, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

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 automatic parking, driver attention monitor, and a McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereo options.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. It supported OTA updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. New digital-key technology allowed smartphones to function as keys, and a Full Display rear-view mirror provided a video view of the rear. The Telluride also offered a head-up display and a Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system.

The 2022 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 Kia Telluride boasted an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Telluride's adaptive cruise control could adjust speed based on navigation data, and Highway Drive Assist provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The IIHS rated the Telluride as a Top Safety Pick+.