2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Nissan Murano

The 2021 Nissan Murano, once a pioneer in design, had settled into a more conventional aesthetic by 2021. Its L-shaped LED headlights and contoured front end were no longer groundbreaking but still appealing. Inside, the Murano maintained a conservative yet comfortable cabin, ideal for commutes and road trips. The straightforward layout of controls minimized the learning curve for drivers, emphasizing ease of use over flashy innovation. The Murano offered four trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum, each adding progressively more features, from basic amenities like dual-zone climate control and an 8-inch touchscreen to luxurious touches like a panoramic moonroof and premium leather in the Platinum trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a testament to Jeep's ability to blend elegance with ruggedness. The L model, longer than the standard Grand Cherokee, offered a third row of seats and more legroom. Its design was unmistakably Jeep, with a modern twist on classic elements like the seven-slot grille. The interior was luxurious, with high-end materials and advanced technology, rivaling premium brands. The Grand Cherokee L's trims, from the base Laredo to the opulent Summit Reserve, showcased impressive features, including new paint colors and a refined finish. The interior's attention to detail, with dual high-resolution screens and plush materials, made it feel like a high-end vehicle.

The 2021 Nissan Murano was powered by a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), offered standard front-wheel drive with an option for all-wheel drive. The V6 provided strong low-speed acceleration, making it suitable for city driving, though the CVT dulled its power at higher speeds. The Murano prioritized comfort, delivering a smooth ride and refined handling, making it an excellent choice for long commutes or road trips. However, its towing capacity was limited to 1,500 pounds, which was lower than many competitors.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered more variety with its engine options. Buyers could choose between a 3.6-liter V6 or a 5.7-liter V8, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, provided a more satisfying performance. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a 4xe plug-in hybrid option, boasting 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle's chassis was a standout feature, offering excellent ride composure and handling. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride heights, enhancing both comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L's towing capacity reached up to 7,200 pounds with 4WD, making it a versatile choice for those needing to haul heavy loads.

The 2021 Nissan Murano offered up to 67 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 32.1 cubic feet with them in use. While this was less than some competitors, the Murano excelled in user-friendly design. Its interior was thoughtfully arranged, with ample storage options and a focus on comfort for two rows of seating. Passengers enjoyed generous headroom and legroom, with the second row offering partial reclining functionality.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L prioritized simplicity and functionality in its Uconnect 5 infotainment system. The interface was sleek and easy to navigate, with physical switches for essential controls. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space across all three rows, accommodating adults comfortably even in the third row. Standard second-row captain's chairs allowed for six-person seating, with an optional bench seat for seven. The panoramic roof and numerous USB ports enhanced the travel experience, though the air vents were criticized for insufficient airflow. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with thoughtful touches like a central rotary shifter and a large wireless charging bin.

The 2021 Nissan Murano featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a user-friendly interface. It included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with hard buttons and dials for easy navigation. Optional tech upgrades included an 11-speaker Bose stereo system and navigation.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a wealth of technology, especially in upper trims. Features included massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. New for 2022 were optional touchscreens for the front passenger and rear-seat passengers. Standard safety tech included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, with additional features available on higher trims. The Summit Reserve trim boasted a 19-speaker McIntosh stereo, though lower trims had less impressive audio systems.

The 2021 Nissan Murano came equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering a range of standard driver assistance features. These included reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features were available as options.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by major safety organizations at the time. However, it included standard safety features like driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a suite of driver aids, enhancing its safety profile.