2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

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 in 2022. 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, reminiscent of a Mercedes in style and quality.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of elegance and ruggedness, with a blunt nose, long hood, and a cabin positioned towards the rear wheels. Its design included bold fender swells and cladding, along with oversized air intakes that added a performance edge without being visually overwhelming. The CX-50's exterior elements, including a black grille and 20-inch alloy wheels, created an appealing aesthetic. The introduction of the CX-50 Meridian Edition added exclusive features like all-terrain tires and a roof-mounted load platform. Inside, the CX-50 offered a driver-focused design with quality materials and a mix of analog and digital gauges. The interior was comfortable, with options for terracotta upholstery and a layout that balanced functionality with style.

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, was found lacking in power 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 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft. The turbo engine's power varied based on fuel type, with 93-octane gas providing the highest output. The CX-50's fuel economy was rated at 10.4 L/100 km city, 8.1 highway, and 9.4 combined. The turbocharged engine provided smooth acceleration and a broad power curve, with minimal turbo lag. The CX-50 featured Mazda's Mi-Drive system with Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, though the differences between modes were subtle. The CX-50's ride quality was slightly firmer than the CX-5, and it offered a towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms. The vehicle's ground clearance was nearly on par with Subaru's Forester and Outback, making it capable of handling off-road situations.

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 came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch display. 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 as an option. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced comfort, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 GT Turbo was equipped with heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though they could benefit from more side bolstering. The rear seat offered ample space, with nearly 90-degree opening doors for easy access. Storage space was adequate, though some opportunities for additional storage were missed. The CX-50 provided 889 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,595 litres with the rear seats folded. The cargo area featured a long load floor and side bins for securing 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.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While Mazda Connect traditionally lacked touchscreen control, the CX-50 allowed touchscreen use for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available Bose 12-speaker sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The CX-50 also offered an Active Driving Display, projecting data within the driver's line of sight.

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

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ designation due to headlight and collision avoidance performance. The CX-50 included a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with features like Traffic Jam Assist and a surround-view camera system available on higher trims. The adaptive cruise control system had some limitations in recognizing vehicles cutting into the lane.