2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the original GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious, three-row SUV. The 2021 model featured a more streamlined design compared to its predecessors, with softened angles and lines that made it appear less bulky. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen spanning nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric controls.

The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 were abundant, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 13-speaker Burmester premium sound system. The GLS 580 added a V8 engine and additional luxury features like massaging front seats and five-zone climate control. The AMG GLS 63 stood out with aggressive bodywork, a quad-outlet exhaust, and a performance-inspired interior, including a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel with a motorsport-inspired stripe.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, maintained Jeep's traditional design elements while offering a more compact and sporty profile. Available in various trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee catered to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Prices ranged from $37,390 to $63,365, excluding the $1,795 destination charge.

The new Grand Cherokee's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the base Laredo offering good quality cloth seats and higher trims like the Summit Reserve featuring luxurious quilted leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a McIntosh high-end audio system. Despite some minor issues with reflections on glossy controls, the Grand Cherokee's interior was well-received for its comfort and quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivered an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph. All engines included Mercedes’ EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed.

The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, adjustable ground clearance, and multiple drive-mode settings, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The E-Active Body Control option ensured a smooth ride over rough roads, making the GLS feel more like a smaller car in terms of maneuverability.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) and came with either a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a tow rating of 6,200 pounds. The available 5.7-liter V8 engine, exclusive to higher trims and 4WD, provided 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, increasing the tow rating to 7,200 pounds. The Grand Cherokee featured three different 4WD systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, catering to various off-roading needs.

The Trailhawk trim, designed for serious off-roading, included Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension with up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance. The Grand Cherokee's adaptive damping Quadra-Lift air suspension provided excellent ride quality, though some preferred the standard suspension for its traditional driving character.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The third row, while not as roomy, was still suitable for adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while not as spacious as its three-row sibling, still offered a comfortable cabin. Higher trims featured heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. The Grand Cherokee provided 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Grand Cherokee L offered more cargo space and rear legroom, making it a better choice for those needing extra room.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like “Hey Mercedes,” and the digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a significant improvement in responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch screen available on higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The Grand Cherokee also offered a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, a head-up display, and an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen for the front passenger.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Optional safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with an extensive collection of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a safety cage composed of aluminum and high-strength steel. The Grand Cherokee included features like Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, providing Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022.