2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its "Dynamic Shield" grille and lighting concept. This unique styling choice gave the Outlander a striking front appearance, while maintaining a balanced and appealing design from the front wheels to the rear bumper. In Canada, the Outlander was available in several trim levels, all featuring standard all-wheel drive and a range of luxurious interior options, such as premium semi-aniline leather and a head-up display. Despite some interior plastics that hinted at its position in the compact crossover SUV segment, the Outlander managed to avoid using obviously inexpensive materials, offering a minimalist yet upscale interior design.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an elegant and recognizable vehicle, maintaining Jeep's signature design elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches. The Grand Cherokee L's extended length allowed for third-row seating, making it a practical choice for families. The interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials such as real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather. The Grand Cherokee L's design was further enhanced by features like a panoramic roof and advanced technology, providing a comfortable and visually stimulating environment for passengers. Despite some minor issues with air vent size and system lag, the Grand Cherokee L offered a spacious and well-appointed interior.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. While the Outlander offered various driving modes, its performance was less than thrilling, particularly at higher speeds or when attempting to overtake. The steering felt vague and disconnected, and the suspension was firm, leading to a less comfortable ride on imperfect roads. The Outlander returned a fuel consumption rate of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly higher than the official rating.

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 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered a more robust 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride quality and handling, with an optional air suspension providing a smooth and adaptable ride. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city and 9.4 highway, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis and suspension offered impressive composure and precision, making it a standout performer in its class.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander excelled in form and function, with roomy and comfortable front seats, intuitive controls, and impressive digital displays. However, the centre console lacked storage space, and the third-row seating was cramped, suitable only for children. The Outlander offered 331 litres of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 2,217 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a user-friendly Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for essential functions. The interior was spacious, with ample room in all three rows, and the second-row captain's chairs added to the comfort. The Grand Cherokee L's cargo space was generous, and the panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced the overall experience. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander stood out with its 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display, a large and detailed head-up display, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay. The GT Premium trim featured a 10-speaker Bose audio system, though the voice-recognition technology could be improved.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology, 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 and other driver aids standard. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, though lower trims had less impressive sound systems.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander featured a driver-assist system similar to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, offering smooth and accurate performance. It included standard safety features like forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. The Outlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids, providing a comprehensive safety package.