2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a fresh addition to the Jeep lineup, distinct from the existing Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its model year designation, the Grand Cherokee L was expected to sell well, largely due to its appealing design. It bore a resemblance to the more expensive Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, presenting a smaller, yet equally stylish alternative. The SUV's design was unmistakably Jeep, with its signature seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and familiar lighting arrangements, ensuring it looked impressive across all trim levels.

Jeep offered the Grand Cherokee L in various trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235, plus a $1,695 destination charge. The Summit trim test vehicle featured four-wheel drive, metallic paint, and several luxury packages, totaling $64,770. While some interior materials didn't quite match the high price point, the Summit's quilted leather and real wood trim were attractive, and the vehicle was packed with technology. Overall, the redesigned interior marked a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform and mechanicals with the Nissan Armada, giving it a family resemblance. Despite its size, the QX80 was considered well-proportioned, with a distinctive Infiniti grille that set it apart from its sibling. The tasteful integration of LED lighting and conservative use of chrome added to its upscale appearance. The stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further enhanced its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80's cabin featured unique, upscale materials, though the design theme was reminiscent of the Armada. The Sensory-trim test vehicle boasted wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, but the overall style was beginning to feel dated.

While the QX80's cabin was comfortable and attractive, it faced stiff competition in the premium full-size SUV market. The high price tag brought high expectations, and the QX80's interior, though lovely, fell short compared to its rivals. Despite this, the QX80 remained a pleasant place to be, with its upscale materials and comfortable seating.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive or a choice of three 4WD systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds and an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with certain trims and 4WD, delivered 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 featured the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but with noticeable engine noise at high revs. The eight-speed automatic transmission was generally smooth, though it sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy, which averaged 17.8 mpg during testing.

The Grand Cherokee L offered various driving modes, including Sport, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock, with the Summit's Quadra-Drive II 4WD system featuring an electronic locking differential and low-range transfer case. The Quadra-Lift suspension provided up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water fording capability. The SUV's stiffer structure contributed to a smooth ride, with capable handling and easy parking aided by a surround-view camera system. On the highway, the Grand Cherokee L offered secure steering feel and a relatively quiet cabin, except during acceleration or when using the air conditioning.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was a highlight, delivering strong performance and an enjoyable exhaust note. However, it was also thirsty, with Infiniti recommending premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided smooth, seamless shifts and quick kickdowns for passing, with smooth power delivery. The QX80's transmission didn't hunt for gears on inclines and managed speed well on descents in manual mode.

Based on the Nissan Patrol, the QX80 offered more off-road capability than most owners would need, with 2WD standard and 4WD available for $3,100. The 4WD system featured a computer-controlled transfer case with Automatic, 4Hi, and 4Lo settings. The QX80's 9.2 inches of ground clearance allowed it to handle challenging terrain, though care was needed with the low-profile tires. The SUV's maximum towing capacity was 8,500 pounds, suitable for large trailers or boats. Despite its size, the QX80 managed body lean well during cornering, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, though it reminded drivers of its nearly three-ton weight when pushed too hard.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered comfort with its Summit trim, featuring heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with 12-way power adjustment and a heated steering wheel. It also had a four-zone automatic climate control system with vents in all three rows. However, the dashboard vents were small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second row featured captain's chairs with ample legroom and comfort, and manual sunshades for the windows. The third row was comfortable for most adults, with large windows providing a good view.

The Grand Cherokee L lacked practical storage space for front-seat occupants, but second-row passengers had a storage console. 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 down.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, aided by a grab handle on the A-pillar. Inside, the cabin felt spacious and airy, with good head- and legroom in the front seats. Forward visibility was commendable, though the side mirrors were small. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than some competitors' panoramic designs. The QX80 could seat up to eight with an optional second-row bench, but the third row was cramped for adults. The power-folding third-row seats and liftgate were slow to operate.

Cargo space in the QX80 was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats down. The test vehicle featured illuminated kick plates and cargo scuff plate, adding a premium touch.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response and an improved user experience. It came with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, with the test vehicle having the larger screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and connected services with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The voice-recognition system worked well, though it occasionally provided unexpected results. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system delivered excellent sound quality, though the logo didn't match the interior's vibe. Additional features included a digital instrumentation panel, digital rearview mirror, night vision system, and Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display also included navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker system available on the Sensory trim. The QX80 also had multiple USB ports, illuminated steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a new wireless smartphone charger. The test vehicle included a dual-screen rear entertainment system, though HDMI adapters were missing. The QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist system due to its older architecture.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on system combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. While effective, the steering assist felt artificial, and lane changes were abrupt. The system was set to become hands-free in 2022. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, detected threats at intersections and applied brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies, including Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, backup collision intervention, a smart rearview mirror, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row passengers. The NHTSA gave the 2022 QX80 three out of five stars for rollover resistance, while the 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection. The IIHS had not rated the QX80 for safety.