2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Subaru Forester

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 Grand Cherokee allowed for third-row seating, making it a versatile choice for families. The design was seamless, with the extra mass integrating smoothly into the body, giving it a more complete look compared to its two-row counterpart. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's signature style with its seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modern touches like slimmer lighting and improved paint finishes elevated its aesthetic appeal. Inside, the Grand Cherokee L offered a luxurious experience with high-quality materials such as real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather, making it feel like a premium investment.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, maintaining a design that had remained consistent over the years. Its boxy shape and practical features like robust roof rails and a high static-weight rating made it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The Premier trim added a touch of sophistication with satin chrome exterior trim and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Forester offered a straightforward and functional layout with brown leather and metallic accents. While hard plastics were prevalent, they contributed to an easy-to-clean cabin. The Forester's design was busy but practical, with a focus on usability and comfort, making it a dependable choice for those who value substance over 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. The V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, provided a more satisfying driving experience. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km in the city and 9.4 on the highway, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a highlight, offering a stellar ride with optional air suspension and five ride height settings, making it adaptable to various terrains.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Forester's CVT had eight programmed ratios and a Subaru Intelligent Drive system with a Sport mode. The Forester excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its X-Mode traction control system and hill descent control. The Forester Premier handled challenging weather conditions with ease, showcasing its capability in flooded roadways and muddy trails. While the engine was adequate, the Forester's driving dynamics were impressive, offering a comfortable and communicative ride. Fuel efficiency was rated at 9.1 L/100 km, slightly below the official rating. The Forester's performance was solid, but a turbocharged engine option would have been a welcome addition.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's interior was designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system featured a sleek interface with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs in the second row and an optional 60/40 split bench. A panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin's spacious feel. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was well-equipped, but some legibility issues with the infotainment system were noted.

The 2023 Subaru Forester focused on practicality, offering features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats, and heated elements in the Touring trim. The Forester's visibility was excellent, thanks to its high seating position and large windows. The interior was functional, with ample storage and a well-sealed cabin. However, the panoramic sunroof's lack of tinting led to solar heating, and the rear seats could have been more supportive. The Forester's cargo space was generous, with 762 litres behind the back seat and 1,957 litres with the seats folded down, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features, including massage modes for the front 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 lane-keep assist as standard. The Summit trims added features like automatic parking and a McIntosh audio system. However, some features were optional on lower trims, and the infotainment system occasionally lagged.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology appeared outdated at first glance, but its user-friendly interface was a highlight. The Base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims offered an 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Forester's climate controls were separate from the touchscreen, making them easy to use. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, and a wireless smartphone charger was absent. The Forester's technology was practical, but improvements in voice recognition and additional features would have been beneficial.

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

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system with updated software and cameras. Adaptive cruise control was standard, and higher trims added features like Automatic Emergency Steering and Rear Automatic Braking. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, a step down from the previous year's Top Safety Pick+ award. The NHTSA awarded the Forester five-star crash-test ratings, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.