2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its new Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trim, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. This edition featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only 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.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained its classic style while extending its length by over 30 centimetres, offering a more luxurious feel than many other midsize SUVs. The High Altitude package added a bold touch with blacked-out grille, logos, and door handles, complemented by dark gray 21-inch wheels and black leather with gold stitching. The interior was adorned with matte-finish light walnut and aluminum speaker grilles, exuding a classy vibe. Despite some hard plastics and rougher-grained leather, the overall interior quality was impressive, especially in upper trims, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was powered by 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 (AWD) 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 flat-four engine layout contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms, and its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance made it more capable off-road than many competitors.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine delivered 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but it was criticized for its lack of low-end torque and outdated feel. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for better performance, especially for towing, with a capacity of 3,265 kilograms. The V8 also offered a more satisfying sound. The Grand Cherokee L's fuel economy was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined with the V6, while the V8's ratings were worse at 16.7 L/100 km city, 10.9 highway, and 14.1 combined. The chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance up to 27.6 centimetres, making it a formidable off-road vehicle.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The interior 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 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided more legroom for second-row passengers, and captain's chairs were standard on all trims. The third row was tight for adults but suitable for children. The interior featured a power liftgate, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and a well-organized dashboard with easy access to controls. Cargo space was abundant, with 481 litres behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and a class-leading 2,407 litres with both rows folded.

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 even a CD player. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, lacking in sonic quality, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system was not available for this trim.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims, running Uconnect 5. The system was generally quick and easy to use, though some legibility issues were noted. The McIntosh sound system was available on upper trims, providing good audio quality. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced tech features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could play video and control navigation. The optional rear entertainment system and "FamCam" added to the tech appeal.

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. It came standard with EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L also earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover. Standard safety features included front knee airbags, forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features on higher trims included front cross-traffic braking, 360-degree cameras, and night vision.