2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Kia Seltos

The 2022 Kia Seltos was positioned between the smaller Kia Soul and the larger Kia Sportage, offering a balance of size and functionality. In Canada, it was available in four trim levels: LX, EX, EX Premium, and SX, with all but the LX featuring standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Prices ranged from $23,595 to $33,195, excluding the $1,850 destination charge. The U.S. model tested, the Nightfall Edition, was similar to the top SX grade, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, and a dual-clutch transmission. The Seltos was praised for its appealing design, though the headlights were not a favourite feature. Inside, it showcased a stylish interior with exposed stitching and metallic accents, but the abundance of shiny hard plastic detracted from its overall quality. The controls were logically arranged, with intuitive knobs and buttons, although the purple accent colour for the infotainment system was not universally liked.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, introduced as an all-new model in 2021, was 29 centimetres longer than the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, accommodating third-row seats. Its design was elegant and unmistakably Jeep, with a seven-slot grille and modernized lighting. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating. The Grand Cherokee L's build quality was likened to that of a Mercedes, offering a premium feel. Despite its size, the vehicle handled well, with a chassis that provided a comfortable ride. The air suspension offered five ride height settings, enhancing both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L was designed for family use, with ample space in all rows and features like a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered two engine options. The LX, EX, and EX Premium trims came with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The SX trim featured a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The turbo engine provided a more engaging driving experience, with torque available between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. The Seltos offered three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Smart, with Smart mode balancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The AWD system included a Lock function for even power distribution at lower speeds, and the vehicle had a ground clearance of 18.5 centimetres. While the Seltos handled well in urban environments, its suspension tuning was less impressive, with noticeable body motion and limited bump isolation.

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. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but was found lacking for a vehicle of this size. The V8, available on higher trims, offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, providing a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering adjustable ride heights. The vehicle's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its driving modes, which adjusted various systems for different terrains. The Grand Cherokee L had a maximum towing capacity of 3,265 kilograms, making it suitable for hauling.

The 2022 Kia Seltos excelled in form and function, offering a roomy interior with easy access due to its ride height and large door openings. The driver's seat was adjustable, and heated front seats were standard on most trims. The rear seat provided ample space for adults, with generous legroom and footroom. The Seltos offered decent storage space, with a cargo capacity of 752 litres behind the rear seat and 1,778 litres with the seat folded down. However, the use of hard plastic in certain areas detracted from comfort.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The interior offered plenty of space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row. The vehicle included a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports, though the air vents were found to be insufficient. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was designed for comfort, with features like a central rotary shifter and a large bin for wireless phone charging.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims, paired with a Bose premium sound system on the SX trim. The system included Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity, though a cable was required for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was intuitive, with physical knobs and buttons for easy access. However, the voice recognition system was less effective without an active subscription to connected services.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology 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 traffic sign recognition, enhancing the vehicle's technological appeal.

The 2022 Kia Seltos was equipped with numerous safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision avoidance, and lane-keeping assist. The SX trim offered adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Seltos received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with top marks for crashworthiness.

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 vehicle was designed with safety in mind, though specific ratings were not available.