2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Volvo XC60

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

The 2023 Volvo XC60 offered a choice of three powertrains, including the XC60 B5 and B6 with mild-hybrid technology and the XC60 Recharge with a plug-in hybrid system. The Recharge model combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. The XC60's design was a testament to Volvo's reputation for style, with a sleek exterior and a minimalist Scandinavian interior. The cabin featured Nappa leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting, creating an opulent atmosphere. Despite its compact size, the XC60 provided a comfortable ride, with the Ultimate package adding premium features like a Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

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, was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, 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 praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering adjustable ride heights and improved handling.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine and an electric motor, producing a combined 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. The XC60 offered several driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their needs. The Recharge model was exceptionally quick, accelerating to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The XC60's PHEV powertrain was the most powerful in Volvo's history, with a more potent electric motor enhancing the driving experience. The vehicle's fuel economy averaged 4.3 L/100 km over a 105-kilometre evaluation route, with the ability to recharge the battery while driving in Charge mode. The XC60's handling was responsive, with Power mode providing a sportier feel, while Pure and Hybrid modes offered a comfortable ride for daily driving.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek design. Physical switches for climate and audio controls complemented the touchscreen interface. 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. The panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin's spacious feel, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow. The vehicle's cargo space was generous, with easy access provided by the air suspension's adjustable ride height.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover SUV, was best suited for four passengers, though it could accommodate five. The front seats, wrapped in Nappa leather, offered exceptional comfort, while the rear seats provided adequate support despite limited legroom. The XC60's storage options included practical spots in the centre console and door bins, with a power liftgate revealing 730 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,792 litres with the rear seats folded. The air suspension facilitated easier loading, and a ski pass-through allowed for carrying long items without sacrificing passenger space.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of premium features on upper trims, 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, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids standard. The Summit trims added features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition, while the Summit Reserve boasted a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system, offering access to Google Assistant, Maps, and Play. The system supported both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface and voice recognition capabilities. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system provided exceptional audio quality, while the Harman Kardon system included in the Ultimate package offered a more affordable alternative.

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

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its safety innovations, came equipped with Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The system performed well on highways, maintaining smooth and accurate control. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped prevent collisions with oncoming vehicles. While the XC60 Recharge had not been tested by the NHTSA, the B5 and B6 models received top safety ratings from the IIHS.