2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated aesthetic in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the flashy chrome embellishments seen on competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently steered clear of the ostentatious grilles found on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX, opting for a more refined look. However, for those seeking a bolder appearance, the AMG GLS 63 model offered flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and prominent exhaust tips, while the Maybach version was adorned with chrome accents and a traditional hood ornament. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall luxury SUV experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended body to accommodate third-row seating, maintained a sleek and elegant design that was unmistakably Jeep. The seven-slot grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and modernized lighting contributed to its sophisticated appearance. The interior was a testament to luxury, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather seating. Despite its higher price point compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride, the Grand Cherokee L's interior quality and design justified the investment. The spacious cabin, even in the third row, and thoughtful features like a panoramic roof and ample USB ports, made it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the electric motor in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, lacked the refinement expected in a luxury vehicle, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, provided a more robust 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, enhancing performance. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a standout feature, offering excellent ride composure and steering feel. The optional air suspension provided adjustable ride heights, enhancing both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L's towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, slightly less than the GLS 450.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version offered individual captain’s chairs in the second row. The second-row seats could slide forward to improve third-row access, and the GLS boasted impressive second-row legroom. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS's air suspension facilitated easier loading by lowering the vehicle, but some ergonomic issues, like the touchscreen's reach and undersized sun visors, were noted.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a sleek interface and physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Laredo and Altitude trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch version. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with standard captain's chairs in the second row and an optional 60/40 split bench. A panoramic roof and numerous USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious and well-appointed, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system included multiple control options, with voice recognition being the most user-friendly. The GLS also offered an augmented-reality navigation feature, though the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. Optional features included a 13-speaker Burmester audio system and a head-up display.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's upper trims offered premium features like 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 the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Summit trims added advanced features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition. The Summit Reserve trim boasted a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, though lower trims had less impressive stereo options.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems were available as options. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

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 a range of driver aids. The Grand Cherokee L offered a robust set of safety features, though specific crash-test ratings were not yet available.