2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a new seven-passenger model, distinct from the older 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 for confusion, Jeep's decision to release it as a 2021 model was likely driven by its strong styling appeal. The Grand Cherokee L resembled a smaller version of the luxurious Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, boasting signature Jeep design elements like the seven-slot grille and trapezoidal wheel arches. Available in various trims, from Laredo to Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee L's pricing ranged from $36,995 to $64,235, with a $1,695 destination charge. The Summit trim test vehicle, equipped with 4WD, metallic paint, and several tech packages, totaled $64,770. While some interior materials didn't quite match the high price, the Summit's quilted leather and real wood trim were impressive, and the redesigned interior marked a significant improvement over the old model.

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series (NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+), offered a range of trims including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury. Prices started at $37,950 and went up to $49,000, excluding a $1,075 destination charge. The NX 250 and NX 350 were non-electrified, while the NX 350h was a hybrid, and the NX 450h+ was a plug-in hybrid. The NX's design, featuring the signature spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate, was unmistakably Lexus. The new model was longer, wider, and taller, providing more passenger and cargo space. Interior options included NuLuxe simulated leather or real leather with open-pore wood trim in the Luxury model. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, black mirrors, and sport-bolstered seats. The minimalist interior design, while a departure from the previous model, integrated many functions into a large touchscreen, which could be challenging to use at first. However, physical controls for frequently used functions remained, and the electronic shifter was user-friendly.

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 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 in 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 with the V6 and 4WD provided brisk acceleration but was loud when revved. The eight-speed automatic transmission sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy, which averaged 17.8 mpg during testing. The Grand Cherokee L offered various driving modes, including Sport and off-road modes, and the Quadra-Lift suspension provided up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance. The SUV's stiffer structure contributed to a smooth ride and capable handling, making it easy to park and comfortable on the highway.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 39 mpg combined, and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower and an estimated 36 miles of pure electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The base NX 250 had a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, available with FWD or AWD. Both models offered Normal, Sport, and Eco driving modes, with the NX 350 F Sport adding Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport trim provided a taut and lean driving experience, while the Luxury trim offered a softer ride. The NX 350's acceleration to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds was credible, with observed fuel economy of 22.2 mpg for the F Sport and 25.5 mpg for the Luxury. The NX's handling was impressive, though the turbocharged engine wasn't as refined as those in German rivals. The NX's ground clearance and approach angles limited its off-road capability.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's Summit trim offered 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 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 seats were comfortable for most adults, with large side windows for a great view. The Grand Cherokee L lacked practical storage space for front-seat occupants but offered a 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 both rows folded.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior room, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat due to the new dashboard design. The NX was comfortable, especially with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim provided better bolstering for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, rear air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. The Luxury trim featured a Thematic Ambient Illumination system with 14 themes. The climate system and ventilated front seats effectively battled triple-digit heat. Cargo space increased by 14%, with 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response and an improved user experience. Available with 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens, the system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and connected services with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The test vehicle had the 10.1-inch screen and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, which sounded great but had a logo that didn't match the interior's vibe. Other available tech included a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, digital rearview mirror, night vision system, and Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system. The head-up display remained visible to drivers wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, music streaming, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen optional. Both versions included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and five connected service subscription plans. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The new Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural commands, and a three-year trial subscription to Drive Connect service was included. Other tech included User Profiles, digital key capability, a digital mirror, and a 10-inch head-up display. The 14-inch touchscreen collected fingerprints and dust, and it lacked a tuning knob.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, a hands-on driving-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The system worked well but felt artificial. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, detected threats at intersections and could apply brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L also offered Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0) with features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, Oncoming Pedestrian Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a stop if the driver was unresponsive. The NX also had blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, Safe Exit Assist, and rear pedestrian detection. Premium trim added adaptive front lighting, semi-autonomous parking assist, and rear cross-traffic braking. The Vision Package included a panoramic view monitoring system, front cross-traffic alert, and lane-change assistance.