2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

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 high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC, meanwhile, was a blend of new and old. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing a platform with the C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models carried over from the previous year. The new GLC 300 had subtle design changes, with narrower taillights being the most noticeable. Despite its evolutionary design, the GLC retained its classy and timeless styling. The interior received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The GLC's cockpit design was simpler and cleaner compared to rivals, maintaining excellent materials quality and solid construction. The returning GLC Coupe models retained their first-generation interior, offering some usability advantages over the newer sibling.

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, 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 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 adjustable ride heights and driving modes for various terrains.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive were standard in Canada. The GLC 300 offered smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. The suspension favoured comfort over sporty handling, providing a smoother ride than its rivals. The returning GLC Coupe models featured an older four-cylinder turbo engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and straightforward graphics. 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 as standard in the second row. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be kept on high, which was noisy. The panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin's spacious feel.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's front seats offered ample adjustment and comfort, with synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. The interior featured a large centre console bin with a wireless charging pad and cupholders, though the piano black lid attracted dust and fingerprints. The GLC provided plenty of space for front passengers, while rear headroom was slightly limited. The standard GLC offered 620 litres of cargo space, smaller than some rivals, but adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and affected rear headroom.

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 an Active Driving Assist system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids as standard. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics, though its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 had not yet been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but the previous GLC received top safety ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Intelligent Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other advanced features.