2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Lexus GX

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 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 finishes. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX boasted a commanding presence with its large spindle grille and 206 mm of ground clearance. The GX's design was characterized by its massive headlights and sleek aesthetic, despite its chunky fenders. The Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colours, including the new Eminent White Pearl. The GX's dimensions appeared compact from the side, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. Inside, the GX featured a mix of luxury touches and an abundance of plastic materials, reflecting its low sales volume and cost-effective manufacturing. The interior offered heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery, though it lagged behind in modern design updates.

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, offering three different systems, while rear-wheel drive was not available. 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, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, providing a more satisfying driving experience. 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 quality and handling, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings and impressive off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the GX's V8 offered a satisfying linear power delivery and a distinctive sound. The GX had a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms (6,500 pounds) but lagged behind other SUVs in fuel efficiency, with ratings of 16.2 L/100 km city, 12.3 highway, and 14.5 combined. The GX's weight contributed to noticeable body roll, though it remained predictable and manageable. The vehicle's driving dynamics were enhanced by a Torsen limited-slip differential and a 4WD system with a 40:60 front:rear torque split, making it capable in various off-road conditions.

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 Grand Cherokee L 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 multiple USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were insufficient for proper airflow. The third row could accommodate adults, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. The decision to retain hard buttons over haptic-touch interfaces was appreciated, though the abundance of controls required familiarization. The centre console lid featured adjustable sliding mechanisms, and the second row offered comfortable seating with captain's chairs or a three-across bench. The third row was tight, suitable only for occasional use. The GX's side-hinged trunk door required effort to open, and cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats and 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features on upper trims, including massage modes, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Active Driving Assist system provided excellent highway steering, and the navigation system integrated seamlessly with smartphones. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereo options.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was present but unnecessary due to the touchscreen. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and a CD player. Off-road capabilities were a highlight, with a real 4WD system, KDSS air suspension, and various driving aids for challenging terrains.

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

The 2023 Lexus GX also lacked crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it featured the Lexus Safety System+ with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. Despite its older design, the GX included modern safety technologies.