Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the iconic design that had made it a favourite since its debut in 1992. Its extended length of over 30 centimetres did not compromise its classic style, which combined a tough and upscale appearance. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured bold aesthetics, including blacked-out elements and dark grey 21-inch wheels. The interior of the upper trims was impressive, with luxurious touches like black leather with gold stitching and matte-finish light walnut accents. Despite some hard plastics, the overall feel was justified for a vehicle nearing $90,000. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was notably more refined than its competitors, offering a classy experience for those willing to invest in higher trims.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look, with slight styling changes that made it resemble a conventional gas-powered car. The EUV body style was the only option, emphasizing utility and interior space over a sporty stance. The interior saw a more dramatic makeover, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The push-button gear selector was moved to the steering column, freeing up storage space. While the cabin was dominated by hard plastics, the Bolt offered adequate comfort with padded touchpoints. The RS trim added Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching, enhancing the interior's appeal. Despite its budget feel, the Bolt provided a practical and spacious environment for its class.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's performance was hindered by its standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, which produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine was considered outdated and lacked the low-end torque needed for a heavy SUV. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for better towing capacity and a more satisfying driving experience. The V8 allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 3,265 kilograms, compared to 2,810 kilograms with the V6. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8's ratings were significantly worse. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and its air suspension offered a smooth ride. The SUV's 4WD systems were sophisticated, with various options for different trims, making it a capable off-road vehicle.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. Its motor, sourced from the Chevy Equinox EV, delivered 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. The Bolt's acceleration was quick for its class, with a 0-100 km/h time in the low seven-second range. One-pedal driving was available, offering medium or high levels of brake regeneration. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and the Bolt's low centre of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. The 2027 Bolt offered an estimated range of 422 kilometres on a full charge, with improved charging speed allowing for a 10% to 80% recharge in 25 minutes.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided more legroom for second-row passengers, creating a spacious interior. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a centre console available on higher trims. The third row was best suited for children, while the power liftgate and dual-pane panoramic sunroof added convenience. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample cargo space, with 481 litres behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded. Visibility from the driver's seat was good, although some legibility issues were noted with the infotainment system's graphics.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt offered an upright driving position with plenty of space for larger occupants. The rear seats provided ample headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor reducing discomfort for centre-seat passengers. The Bolt's cargo capacity was 459 litres behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, enhancing versatility. While there was no frunk, the Bolt provided ample storage for personal items, including a large bin with movable dividers, a deep centre armrest bin, and additional pockets.

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 infotainment system was generally quick and easy to use, despite some legibility issues. The McIntosh sound system was available as an option, providing good audio quality. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced tech features, including night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could play video and control navigation. The SUV's tech offerings were extensive, setting it apart from competitors.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch centre touchscreen, running a Google-based operating system. Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, requiring Bluetooth pairing for personal music libraries. The optional Technology package added features like a surround-view camera system and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menus and sharp graphics. The Bolt's navigation system could locate charging stations and precondition the battery for optimal charging rates. Vehicle-to-load charging was also available, allowing the Bolt to serve as a backup power source.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for models built after May 2023. It scored five stars in most National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tests, except for rollover, where it received four stars. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and night vision.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not available at the time of writing, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was available for an additional cost, offering advanced highway driving capabilities.