2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Kia Sorento

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 redesign, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its model year designation, the Grand Cherokee L's styling was a strong selling point. It bore a resemblance to the more expensive Wagoneer models, with its signature Jeep design elements like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Available in multiple trims, from Laredo to Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee L offered a range of features and prices, with our test vehicle in Summit trim showcasing luxurious touches like quilted leather and real wood trim, though some materials didn't quite match the high price tag.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly with the X-Line package, exuded a rugged and stylish presence. The X-Line treatment added features like matte-finish wheels, a lifted suspension, and robust roof rails, enhancing the Sorento's already attractive design. Our test vehicle, equipped with the SX Prestige specification, included all-wheel drive and additional features like Wolf Gray paint and Rust-colored leather. The Sorento's interior was marked by quality materials and thoughtful design, with comfortable seating and practical storage solutions. While the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, the Sorento's overall interior style and functionality made it a compelling choice for families.

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 or a choice of three 4WD systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds and an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in combined driving. 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. Our test vehicle featured the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but falling short of fuel economy expectations. The Grand Cherokee L's Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension and Selec-Terrain off-road modes enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its stiffer structure and variable-ratio steering contributed to a smooth and capable ride on various terrains.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a range of powertrains, with the base model featuring a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, available from the EX trim, was more satisfying, generating 281 hp and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, provided energetic performance, with Kia claiming a 0-60 mph time of about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension, tuned for a blend of compliance and composure, delivered a sporty driving experience, especially with the X-Line's raised suspension and 20-inch alloy wheels. Despite its sporty nature, the Sorento's fuel economy fell short of EPA estimates, averaging around 20.5 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior, especially in the Summit trim. 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. However, the dashboard vents were small, making it challenging to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and comfort, with manual side window sunshades for added convenience. The third-row seat was surprisingly comfortable for adults, and the Grand Cherokee L offered practical storage solutions, though front-seat storage was limited. Cargo space was competitive, with 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 84.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with the SX Prestige trim offering a 14-way power driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs, standard from the EX trim, were designed with kids in mind, featuring cupholders, USB ports, and rear air conditioning vents. However, the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was modest, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 75.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Sorento's smart power tailgate added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response times and an improved user experience. Available with either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, the system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Our test vehicle had the larger screen and the optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, which delivered impressive sound quality. Additional tech features included a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, starting from the EX trim, came with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering navigation, satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. While the base LX trim retained an 8-inch screen with wireless smartphone integration, the larger display required a cable connection. The system's user interface was intuitive, though the design might not appeal to everyone. The SX Prestige X-Line featured a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system and wireless smartphone charging, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on driving-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. While effective, the system's steering assist felt artificial. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, added an extra layer of safety by detecting threats at intersections. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a comprehensive suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies, though crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Kia Sorento came standard with Kia Drive Wise, a suite of safety features varying by trim level. Our test vehicle included advanced technologies like a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, and a Blind View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist system, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving feature, worked exceptionally well during testing. The Sorento earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with the SX and SX Prestige trims receiving the highest headlight rating. The NHTSA awarded the Sorento a four-star overall crash-test rating.