2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 Buick Encore GX was praised for its stylish design, which was a significant improvement over the original Encore, often referred to as "the shoe" due to its awkward proportions. The Encore GX offered a sleek and appealing exterior, available in three trim levels: Preferred, Select, and Essence. Buyers could opt for the Sport Touring (ST) package for a sportier look. The SUV provided a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The 1.2-liter engine was exclusive to FWD, while the 1.3-liter engine was available with both FWD and AWD. The test model featured the Essence trim with the 1.3-liter engine, but not AWD, and included several upgrades, bringing the MSRP to $35,065. Despite the high price, Buick offered significant discounts for GM customers and attractive lease deals for non-GM owners. Inside, the Encore GX's cabin met the expected quality levels for its segment, though the interior design was less refined than the exterior. The placement of analog gauges and the vibrating head-up display (HUD) were notable drawbacks, highlighting the SUV's lack of refinement for its price.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, a new seven-passenger model, was an extended version of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo volume. Its styling, reminiscent of the more expensive Wagoneer models, was a strong selling point. The Grand Cherokee L was available in six trim levels: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235. The test vehicle, a Summit trim with 4WD, included several premium features, resulting in a total cost of $64,770. While some interior materials didn't match the high price, the Summit's leather and wood trim were appealing, and the SUV was packed with technology. The redesigned interior marked a significant improvement over the previous model, offering a more luxurious and modern feel.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX featured two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The standard 1.2-liter engine produced 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The larger engine provided adequate power for highway driving, though torque steer was noticeable with FWD. The Encore GX's FWD models used a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite Buick's QuietTuning efforts, the Encore GX was not particularly quiet inside, and its ride quality was inconsistent. The SUV handled corners well and had effective brakes, but the steering was light, making it easy to drive. The Encore GX averaged 28.2 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA estimate.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The SUV offered RWD or three 4WD systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available with select trims and 4WD, generated 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. The test vehicle had the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but was loud when revved. The eight-speed transmission was generally smooth, though it sometimes resisted downshifts. The Grand Cherokee L averaged 17.8 mpg during testing, below expectations. The SUV's Quadra-Lift air suspension offered a smooth ride and capable handling, with various off-road modes for different terrains. The Grand Cherokee L was easy to park and maneuver, with a relatively tight turning circle.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered a high seating position, with supportive front seats suitable for long drives. The test vehicle included power-adjustable and heated front seats, as well as a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seats were less comfortable, with limited legroom and a low, flat cushion. Interior storage was good, with a trunk capacity of 23.5 cubic feet, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The test vehicle featured a hands-free power liftgate and a fold-flat front passenger seat for carrying long items.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, especially in Summit trim, provided a comfortable and luxurious interior. It featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with 12-way power adjustment, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. The second row offered captain's chairs with ample legroom, and the third row was comfortable for most adults. The Grand Cherokee L lacked practical storage space for front-seat occupants, but second-row passengers had a storage console. Cargo space behind the third row measured 17.2 cubic feet, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.6 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX Essence came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The test vehicle included a navigation system, voice recognition, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a surround-view camera. Wireless smartphone charging was available through an optional package. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick response times and intuitive controls.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The test vehicle had the larger screen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system included a natural voice-recognition feature and an optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. Additional technology options included a digital instrumentation panel, digital rearview mirror, night vision system, and a rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX came standard with Buick Driver Confidence, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims, and adaptive cruise control was available. The Encore GX earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS had not tested it.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The system was effective but felt artificial. Intersection Collision Assist was standard on Summit models, detecting threats at intersections. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including park assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.