2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, despite being in its second generation since its 2005 launch, continued to impress with its luxurious design and features. The 2018 refresh, which carried over into 2021, introduced a dual-screen center console that became a hallmark of Land Rover interiors. This model offered a variety of trims, from the base SE with leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, to the high-performance SVR Carbon Edition with carbon fiber accents and a powerful V8 engine. The interior was characterized by high-end materials and advanced technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it a sophisticated choice for luxury SUV enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard Grand Cherokee, designed to accommodate a third row of seats. Its elegant design was unmistakably Jeep, with modernized lighting and improved paint finish and panel fit. The Grand Cherokee L offered a range of trims, from the base Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each with distinct features like black roofs and larger wheels. The interior was a step up in luxury, with dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and quilted Nappa leather, providing a premium feel. Despite its higher price point compared to some competitors, the Grand Cherokee L delivered a Mercedes-like style and quality, making it a compelling option for those seeking a spacious and refined SUV.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a variety of powertrains, starting with the base P360 mild-hybrid system, which combined a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt electrical system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HST model featured a more powerful P400 version, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The HSE Silver Edition provided options for a plug-in hybrid or diesel powertrain, with the P400e plug-in hybrid generating 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine in the HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims produced 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, while the SVR and SVR Carbon Edition boasted an even more potent version with 575 hp and 516 lb-ft. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, along with height-adjustable air suspension and a Terrain Response system for various terrains. The Range Rover Sport excelled in off-road capabilities and offered impressive towing capacities, with most variants able to tow up to 7,716 pounds.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two familiar engines: a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The V6 engine, producing 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, while the V8 offered a more robust 357 hp and 390 lb-ft. The 4xe plug-in hybrid, although not tested, promised 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights for different driving conditions. The vehicle's towing capacity reached up to 7,200 pounds with 4WD. Despite the V6's shortcomings, the Grand Cherokee L's handling and ride quality were commendable, making it a strong performer in its class.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a maximum of 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 31.7 cubic feet with the second row in use. An optional third row increased seating capacity to seven, though it reduced cargo space to 10.8 cubic feet. The first and second rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was best suited for children. The Range Rover Sport's interior combined space with luxury, making it a comfortable choice for passengers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek graphics. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls complemented the touchscreen interface. The Laredo and Altitude trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch version. The Grand Cherokee L provided generous space in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a bench seat available as an option. The panoramic roof and ample USB ports enhanced the travel experience, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow. Overall, the Grand Cherokee L offered a spacious and well-equipped interior for families.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's interior was dominated by a dual-screen center console, with the lower screen handling climate controls and vehicle settings, and the upper screen dedicated to infotainment. While the system had a learning curve and some bugs in earlier models, it featured integrated dials for various functions and a simplified touchscreen layout. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it was not the most intuitive on the market.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a wealth of technology, especially in upper trims. Features included multiple massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, a 360-degree camera system, and an Active Driving Assist system. The navigation system integrated with the instrument panel, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were wireless. New for 2022 were optional touchscreens for the front passenger and rear-seat passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The Summit trims offered additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition. The Grand Cherokee L's technology package was comprehensive, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with standard driver assistance features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. However, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were optional. Additional features like a surround-view camera and head-up display were available, though some competitors offered these as standard.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included standard safety features like driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The vehicle also offered a range of driver aids, enhancing its safety profile.