2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a testament to Jeep's ability to blend elegance with functionality. Its extended length of 29 centimetres over the standard two-row model allowed for third-row seating, while the wheelbase stretched an additional 12.7 cm, providing more legroom and wider rear doors. The design was seamless, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated in comparison. The Grand Cherokee L's exterior was unmistakably Jeep, with its seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, yet it boasted modernized lighting and improved paint finishes. Inside, the vehicle exuded luxury, with high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, reminiscent of a Mercedes in style and quality.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, meanwhile, captivated with its classic, boxy design that harkened back to the old LR4. Its industrial design was consistent, with square-jawed features and steep angles, giving it a rugged, timeless appeal. The Defender paid homage to its 1980s predecessor with tasteful accents like faux-metal step plates and skylights along the roof. Available in three body styles—90, 110, and 130—the Defender offered unparalleled versatility. Inside, it prioritized function and durability, with rubber and plastic surfaces designed to resist moisture and stains. Despite its utilitarian interior, the Defender maintained excellent build quality, though it lacked the opulence of its Range Rover counterparts.

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. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, provided a more satisfying drive. 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 comfort and handling, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings and impressive off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender was a formidable off-road performer, with its air suspension providing exceptional clearance and wheel articulation. On-road, however, it felt cumbersome, with excessive body roll and slow steering. The Defender's engine lineup included a turbocharged inline-six and a supercharged V8, the latter delivering 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid system, offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. Fuel economy for the V8 was poor at 16.4 L/100 km city, 12.7 highway, and 14.7 combined, while the six-cylinder was more efficient at 12.9/10.4/11.8. The Defender's power and off-road prowess were undeniable, but its on-road performance left room for improvement.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and audio controls. The interior was spacious, with ample room in all three rows, and second-row captain's chairs were standard. The panoramic roof and numerous USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were insufficient for proper airflow. The Grand Cherokee L offered a range of trim levels, with higher trims boasting larger touchscreens and premium features.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled in versatility, offering seating configurations for up to eight passengers. The Defender 90 could seat six with a jump seat, while the 110 and 130 offered optional third rows. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 providing up to 2,180 litres with seats folded. The Defender's large windows and panoramic roofs ensured excellent visibility, and a range of accessories, from roof racks to winches, catered to adventurous buyers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's upper trims offered luxury features like massage seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with adaptive cruise control and other driver aids standard. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, though lower trims had less impressive sound systems.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender's Pivi Pro infotainment system was reliable and user-friendly, with a choice of 10-inch or 11.4-inch touchscreens. Standard features included wireless smartphone connectivity, heated seats, and a Meridian sound system. Higher trims added air suspension, a head-up display, and advanced off-road systems, enhancing the Defender's appeal.

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

The 2023 Land Rover Defender earned a five-star rating in Euro NCAP testing, though it lacked some airbags found in competitors. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, with optional advanced parking aids.