2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a blacked-out exterior trim that gave the SUV a sporty appearance. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a unique grille design, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available in a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching, which was a refreshing change from the typical black interiors associated with such exterior treatments. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an elegant extension of the standard Grand Cherokee, with an additional 29 centimetres in length to accommodate third-row seating. The design seamlessly integrated the extra mass, maintaining Jeep's recognizable seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather seating. The vehicle's tactile quality and style were reminiscent of a Mercedes, offering a premium feel. Despite its all-black interior, the Grand Cherokee L provided enough detail and contrast to keep passengers comfortable, with lighter tan leather available for those seeking a more luxurious touch.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive as standard. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 11.5 L/100 km. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms, and it included Subaru’s X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance, making it capable off-road. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could create an uncertain driving 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. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but it felt insufficient for the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, providing a more satisfying performance. The V6's fuel efficiency 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 stellar, with ride composure and steering feel that were taut and direct. The optional air suspension offered five ride height settings, enhancing both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L's maximum towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could carry up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain’s chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent provided ample storage, with a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space was generous, with 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek interface. Physical switches for climate and stereo functions 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. A panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin's airy feel, though the air vents were small and required the fan to be on high. The Grand Cherokee L's cargo space was not detailed in the provided text.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a CD player. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were reserved for the Premier trim, including a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, such as massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The navigation system could take over the instrument panel, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were wireless. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Summit trims offered additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition. The Summit Reserve came with a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The Ascent came with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and available blind-spot monitoring.

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 various driver aids.