2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Buick Encore GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX departed from Buick's storied design history, presenting a style that neither embraced retro elements nor ventured into new territory. Its rounded exterior and tall stance resulted in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal that has drawn many buyers to this segment. Even with the optional Sport Touring Package, which added subtle enhancements like a black mesh grille and two-tone wheels, the Encore GX's design remained understated. Inside, the top-trim Essence model offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the interior's plastic components reminded us of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels lacked visual interest, echoing some of the less appealing design aspects of the 1990s.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic style of its predecessors while extending its length by over 30 centimetres. The High Altitude package on our test model added bold elements like a blacked-out grille and dark grey wheels, enhancing its upscale appearance. The interior of upper trims impressed with luxurious touches, including a polished black dash and diamond-patterned stitching. While not every material matched the quality of high-end brands, the overall feel justified the price. The Grand Cherokee L's design successfully combined traditional Jeep elements with modern features, creating a look that was both timeless and contemporary.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX in Canada came equipped with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, delivered a driving experience that felt stronger than the numbers suggested, though power delivery was not always smooth. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, its steering was slow and lifeless, and the suspension tuning allowed for significant body roll, making it feel ponderous in various driving situations.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard Pentastar V6 engine, shared with Dodge and Chrysler, produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. While the engine's noise was well-muffled, its performance was lacklustre, especially in sport mode. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, offered a more satisfying driving experience, particularly for towing. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for smooth cornering and a comfortable ride. With three different 4WD systems available, the Grand Cherokee L was equipped for various driving conditions, offering a level of off-road capability that few competitors could match.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the front seats were positioned close together, reducing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo capacity was respectable, with 665 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. Despite its compact size, the Encore GX provided ample small-item storage, including large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless charging pad.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided generous legroom for second-row passengers, with standard captain's chairs enhancing comfort. The third row, while tight for adults, was suitable for children. Cargo space was abundant, with 481 litres behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded. The Grand Cherokee L's interior featured a well-organized layout, though some infotainment graphics were difficult to read. Overall, the Grand Cherokee L offered a spacious and versatile interior, ideal for families and those needing extra cargo capacity.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. While the screen size was modest, the infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades included a navigation system, head-up display, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. However, rear-seat passengers lacked USB ports, limiting connectivity options.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured a more advanced technology suite, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch screen on higher trims. The Uconnect 5 system was generally quick and easy to use, despite some legibility issues. The Grand Cherokee L offered a range of tech features, including night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that allowed for independent media control. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh sound system provided high-quality audio, though surround imaging could be improved. Overall, the Grand Cherokee L's technology offerings were comprehensive and catered to tech-savvy consumers.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came equipped with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022, though its child-seat anchor ease of use was rated as "Average."

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023, following frame reinforcements. It also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in the rollover category. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features on higher trims included night vision and Active Driving Assist. The Grand Cherokee L's comprehensive safety suite made it a strong contender for safety-conscious buyers.