2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Encore GX
2022 Buick Encore GX
$24,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Encore GX
$24,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
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CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Buick Encore GX scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the better choice, offering more space, advanced technology, and superior off-road capability.

Overview

MSRP

$37,580

MSRP

$24,400

Average price

$33,683

Average price

$21,406

Listings

2964

Listings

977
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Great handling
  • Premium interior materials
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Poor ride quality
  • Cramped back seat
  • Poor value for money

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Reviews Summary

Over ten years ago, the last 2010 Jeep Commander rolled off a Detroit, Michigan, assembly line, leaving Jeep without a three-row SUV at a time when American families were switching their allegiance from sedans to SUVs in record numbers. While the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler have nevertheless proven popular, Jeep customers have made it clear that they want an SUV with a third-row seat. The redesigned 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies one, and much more.

2022 Buick Encore GX Reviews Summary

The Encore GX debuted for the 2020 model year, slotting in just above the best-selling Encore subcompact crossover in Buick's four-SUV lineup. Other than four new extra-cost exterior paint colors, the 2022 Encore GX is a complete carryover from 2021.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.6L 290 hp V6

Engine

1.2L 137 hp I3

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6400 rpm

Horsepower

137 hp @ 5000 rpm

MPG City

19

MPG City

29

MPG Highway

26

MPG Highway

31
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Buick Encore GX
2022 Buick Encore GX
$24,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
$37,580MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Buick Encore GX
$24,400MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Buick Encore GX scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the better choice, offering more space, advanced technology, and superior off-road capability.

Overview
MSRP
$37,580
$24,400
Average price
$33,683
$21,406
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.9
4.4
Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Great handling
  • Premium interior materials
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Poor ride quality
  • Cramped back seat
  • Poor value for money
Summary
Over ten years ago, the last 2010 Jeep Commander rolled off a Detroit, Michigan, assembly line, leaving Jeep without a three-row SUV at a time when American families were switching their allegiance from sedans to SUVs in record numbers. While the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler have nevertheless proven popular, Jeep customers have made it clear that they want an SUV with a third-row seat. The redesigned 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies one, and much more.
The Encore GX debuted for the 2020 model year, slotting in just above the best-selling Encore subcompact crossover in Buick's four-SUV lineup. Other than four new extra-cost exterior paint colors, the 2022 Encore GX is a complete carryover from 2021.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
3.6L 290 hp V6
1.2L 137 hp I3
Drive Train
4X2
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
Horsepower
290 hp @ 6400 rpm
137 hp @ 5000 rpm
MPG City
19
29
MPG Highway
26
31
Look and feel
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9/10
2022 Buick Encore GX
8/10

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a new seven-passenger model, distinct from the existing five-passenger Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming redesigned 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and more cargo volume. Despite the potential confusion of its naming, the Grand Cherokee L's styling was a strong selling point, resembling a smaller version of the luxurious Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models. The SUV's design was unmistakably Jeep, with its signature seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and familiar lighting arrangements. Available in various trims, the Grand Cherokee L's price ranged from $36,995 to $64,235, with a destination charge of $1,695. The Summit trim test vehicle, loaded with features, had a sticker price of $64,770. While some interior materials didn't quite match the high price, the overall design, technology, and comfort were significant improvements over the old model.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, though similar in appearance to the smaller Encore, had a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, giving it a less stubby look. The Encore GX was particularly attractive with the optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package, which added sporty design elements and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the five-passenger cabin was attractive, with soft-touch materials and a mix of cloth and leather seats depending on the trim. The test vehicle featured heated Whisper Beige leather seats with Ebony accents, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and straightforward controls. While rear-seat knee room was tight, the Encore GX offered decent cargo space, with 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The two-level cargo floor and optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

Performance
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
7/10
2022 Buick Encore GX
5/10

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. It offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or three different four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with 4WD on higher trims, generated 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined. The test vehicle had the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but loud when revved. The eight-speed automatic transmission was well-behaved, though it sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee L averaged 17.8 mpg in testing, below expectations. The SUV featured various driving modes, including Sport, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock, with the Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance. The Grand Cherokee L's stiffer structure contributed to a smooth ride and capable handling, making it easy to park and comfortable on the highway.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter unit producing 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter motor making 155 hp. The 1.2-liter engine was standard on lower trims, while the 1.3-liter was standard on the top Essence trim and optional on others. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available. FWD models used a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic. The test vehicle's 1.3-liter turbo engine and CVT provided adequate power, though the engine was buzzy and harsh. The Encore GX's ride was less settled than expected, with more noise, vibration, and harshness than anticipated. The CVT, however, did not drone. The Encore GX was not taken off-roading, but it handled gravel driveways and dirt patches without issue.

Form and function
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
7/10
2022 Buick Encore GX
8/10

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered comfort with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were too small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, with manual side window sunshades. The third row was comfortable for all but the tallest adults, with large side windows for a great view. The Grand Cherokee L lacked practical storage space for front-seat occupants but had a useful storage console for second-row passengers. Cargo space measured 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, though small, was comfortable and easy to live with. Ingress and egress were easy, and controls were clearly marked and legible. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, but rear-seat knee room was tight. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The Encore GX could accommodate items up to eight feet in length with the front passenger seat and rear seats folded flat. The two-level cargo floor created a flat load floor when the rear seats were folded. The optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience, with an adjustable maximum height for easier access.

Technology
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9/10
2022 Buick Encore GX
8/10

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with 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 connected services, including a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system also had a natural voice-recognition system with a programmable wake phrase. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system provided excellent sound quality. Additional features included a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, a thermal-imaging night vision system, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system. The head-up display remained visible to drivers wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming, Buick Connected Services, front and rear USB ports, OnStar telematics, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Navigation was available on higher trims, along with built-in Amazon Alexa capability. The test vehicle had a basic audio system. Standard driver-assistance features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Advanced Technology package added HD surround vision, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and an upgraded infotainment system with navigation and advanced voice recognition. The Convenience package included automatic parking assist, wireless phone charging, a rear camera mirror, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layout and efficient voice recognition.

Safety
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
8/10
2022 Buick Encore GX
8/10

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on driving-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The system worked well but felt artificial in steering corrections. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, detected threats from either side at intersections and applied brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L also offered Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the new model was expected to improve upon the old Grand Cherokee's flaws.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came standard with several driver-assistance features and offered additional safety options. Teen Driver technology helped track driving habits and set limits. The Encore GX earned five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for overall crash protection, with five stars in frontal and side crash protection and four stars for rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Encore GX "Good" ratings in all crash tests. The top Essence trim's LED headlights received an "Acceptable" rating, while lower trims' halogen headlights received a "Marginal" rating. The Encore GX earned "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention.

Cost Effectiveness
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
7/10
2022 Buick Encore GX
5/10
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