2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh, with its blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. The cabin was positioned towards the rear wheels, maintaining the subtle allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged aesthetic with its pronounced fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. The oversized air intakes and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually overwhelming. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch alloy wheels, the CX-50 presented an appealing exterior. The introduction of the CX-50 Meridian Edition later in the year brought exclusive features like all-terrain tires and a roof-mounted load platform, enhancing its adventurous appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L retained the classic style of its predecessors while extending its length by over 30 centimetres. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured a blacked-out grille, logos, and door handle tops, complemented by dark gray 21-inch wheels. The interior boasted black leather with gold stitching and matte-finish light walnut accents, creating a bold yet sophisticated look. The U-shaped fenders and square greenhouse were quintessentially Jeep, while modern elements like slim LED lighting and body-colour bumpers added a contemporary touch. The Grand Cherokee L's interior on upper trims was luxurious, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design, making it a standout in the midsize SUV segment.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The base engine, a 187 hp Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder, delivered 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. It boasted fuel consumption figures of 9.7 L/100 km in the city, 7.9 on the highway, and 8.9 combined. For those seeking more power, the CX-50 GT Turbo trim featured a turbocharged version of the same engine, producing between 227 hp and 256 hp depending on the fuel type. Torque ranged from 310 lb-ft on 87-octane gas to 320 lb-ft on 93-octane. The turbo engine offered a towing capacity increase from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. Despite a slightly firmer ride quality, the CX-50 provided smooth acceleration and a driving experience reminiscent of a sporty station wagon.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard engine was the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. While the engine was well-muffled, it lacked the low-end torque needed for a heavy SUV. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8, with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, was recommended for those who needed more power, especially for towing. The V8's towing capacity was 7,200 pounds compared to the V6's 6,200 pounds. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for a smooth ride. The SUV offered three different 4WD systems, with the Quadra-Drive II system featuring a low-range transfer case and limited-slip differential. The air suspension provided up to 27.6 centimetres of ground clearance, making it a capable off-road vehicle.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 GT Turbo was equipped with features for all seasons, including heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control ensured comfort in various weather conditions. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though they could benefit from more side bolstering. The rear seat offered ample space for adults, and the rear doors opened wide for easy access. Cargo space was 889 litres behind the rear seats and 1,595 litres with the seats folded, though the load floor was narrow between the wheel wells.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided more legroom for second-row passengers, with standard captain's chairs and an optional 60/40 bench seat. The third row was best suited for children, and the power-folding feature added convenience. The SUV offered 481 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded. The Grand Cherokee L's cargo capacity was among the best in its class, and the interior featured thoughtful storage solutions and a user-friendly layout.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with a Mazda Connect infotainment system featuring a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While Mazda Connect historically lacked touchscreen control, the 2023 model allowed touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The Active Driving Display projected important information within the driver's line of sight, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured Uconnect 5, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The system was generally quick and easy to use, though some legibility issues were noted. The McIntosh sound system offered good audio quality, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims. The Grand Cherokee L also offered advanced features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that allowed for independent media control and navigation assistance.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ designation due to headlight and pedestrian collision avoidance issues. The CX-50 came with a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in, requiring manual intervention.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for models built after May 2023, and it received five stars in most NHTSA tests. Standard safety features included 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.