2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

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 elegance and recognizability. The Grand Cherokee L maintained classic Jeep features like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer lighting and improved paint finishes. The interior boasted high-end materials such as real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather, offering a luxurious feel akin to a Mercedes.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Rogue maintained a conservative design approach, focusing on proper proportions and rugged SUV detailing. The Rogue's lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 to $43,748, excluding destination charges. The Platinum trim, which we tested, featured AWD, two-tone paint, and a host of upscale features like diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials. While the Rogue's design was appealing, it leaned towards practicality and functionality, ensuring it remained a popular choice among consumers who valued aesthetics and utility.

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 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 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. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a standout feature, offering stellar ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights and improved off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, featured a new turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a CVT, the engine offered responsive performance in urban settings but lacked highway passing power. The Rogue's fuel economy was rated at 7.7 L/100 km combined, though our test vehicle averaged 8.1 L/100 km. The Rogue's ride quality was enhanced by brake-induced cornering aids and a strut-type front and multi-link rear suspension. While the Rogue handled speed bumps well, it exhibited more body motion on uneven roads, and the steering felt lifeless.

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 user-friendly, 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 option. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were insufficient for proper airflow.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a practical family vehicle, accommodating four adults comfortably, with room for a fifth. The Platinum trim included premium features like a triple-zone climate control system, panoramic sunroof, and Zero Gravity seats. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, with low-mounted cushions and quilted pleats. The Rogue offered generous storage space, with a hands-free power liftgate revealing up to 1,028 litres of cargo space. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations, expanding to 2,064 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, including massage modes for 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 and other driver aids standard. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereo options.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The test vehicle included a 12.3-inch digital display and a head-up display, though voice recognition was limited. The Bose audio system provided decent sound quality, and the Rogue's controls were straightforward, despite some ergonomic quirks.

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 Nissan Rogue boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it received lower scores in specific crash tests.