2022 Porsche Macan vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2022 Porsche Macan retained much of its original design, introduced in 2015, despite undergoing several updates over the years. The latest model featured a refreshed styling, larger standard wheels, and a new centre console with haptic touch controls, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The Macan lineup in Canada included four models: the base Macan, Macan T, Macan S, and Macan GTS, with the Macan S benefiting from a high-output powertrain previously found in the GTS. Our test vehicle, a Macan S, showcased a sleek Volcano Gray exterior with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, embodying Porsche's tradition of graceful aging with its athletic and performance-oriented design. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, featuring a left-side ignition switch, a large tachometer, and a flat dashboard, all contributing to its upscale, sporty, and purposeful cabin appearance.

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 and offering more second-row legroom. Its design seamlessly integrated the extra length, maintaining Jeep's recognizable features like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, with high-end materials such as real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather, rivaling premium brands. The spacious cabin offered comfort across all three rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row and an optional 60/40 split bench. Despite some issues with air vent size and noise, the Grand Cherokee L provided a comfortable and visually appealing environment for passengers.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of engines, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in the base Macan and Macan T, producing 261 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Macan GTS inherited a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 from the previous Macan Turbo, delivering 434 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Our Macan S test vehicle featured a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6, generating 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. All Macans came with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fully variable AWD system. The Macan S boasted improved steering and suspension, larger 20-inch wheels, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) for enhanced ride and handling. The Macan S excelled in performance, offering a thrilling driving experience with precise handling and powerful acceleration, though it required some adjustment to the brake pedal feel.

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, 4WD was standard, with three different systems available. Our test vehicle had the V6 engine, producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, which felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, offered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, providing a more satisfying performance. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was impressive, with a stellar ride composure and steering feel, aided by an optional air suspension with five ride height settings. The vehicle handled well on various terrains, though it was optimized for on-road comfort. The Grand Cherokee L's towing capacity was 3,265 kg, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a comfortable experience for the driver and front passenger, with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats providing heating and ventilation. However, the rear seats were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The redesigned centre console featured haptic touch controls, though it required looking away from the road to operate. Storage space was limited, with 488 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The Macan's steering wheel, inspired by the 911, felt thin and uncomfortable for extended drives.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and straightforward graphics. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were easy to use, and the central rotary shifter was intuitive. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row and an optional 60/40 split bench. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced passenger comfort. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious and well-appointed, providing a comfortable environment for long journeys.

The 2022 Porsche Macan came equipped with a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, known as Porsche Communication Management (PCM). It included wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, and connected services. The standard 10-speaker sound system could be upgraded to a Bose or Burmester audio system. The user experience was intuitive, though the voice recognition system was less reliable than competitors. The Macan's infotainment system offered stereo volume and tuning controls separate from the touchscreen, minimizing the need for interaction while driving.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of advanced features, especially on upper trims. These included massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, a 360-degree camera system, and Active Driving Assist. The navigation system integrated with the instrument panel, providing a zoomed-in view of upcoming turns. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids were standard, with additional features available on higher trims. The Summit Reserve trim featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereo options. The Grand Cherokee L's technology offerings were comprehensive, enhancing both convenience and safety.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included standard safety features such as lane-departure warning and a reversing camera. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Macan's safety technologies performed as expected, though it lacked more advanced driving assistance features. Parking assistance options included a surround-view camera and Park Assist, which could steer the vehicle into parking spaces. The Macan had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, enhancing driver confidence and passenger protection.