2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Ford Escape

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended length of 11.4 inches compared to the standard two-row model, offered a third row of seats and more legroom in the second row. Its design seamlessly integrated the extra mass, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, followed by the two-row version, contributed to this perception. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's signature design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer lighting and improved paint finishes. The interior exuded luxury, with high-resolution screens, real wood, and quilted Nappa leather, reminiscent of a Mercedes in style and quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford Escape embraced a more European design language, moving away from the blocky aesthetics of its predecessors. The 2023 refresh introduced a traditional front end with a stylish LED light bar and the Ford logo prominently displayed. The Escape offered a range of trim levels, with the ST-Line Elite showcasing 19-inch wheels and a sleek design. Inside, the Escape featured diamond-stitched leather upholstery, though it felt somewhat hard and plasticky. Despite this, the seats were comfortable, and the 10-way power adjustable driver's seat provided ease of use. The interior, however, was dominated by plastic materials, which felt cost-cutting in nature.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, provided a more satisfying driving experience. The plug-in hybrid 4xe variant, although not tested, promised 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering five ride height settings. Its towing capacity reached up to 7,200 pounds with 4WD.

The 2023 Ford Escape differentiated itself with multiple powertrain options. The 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivered 180 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder offered 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The latter, available only with AWD, provided better acceleration and passing capabilities. Despite its power, the Escape's suspension remained soft, prioritizing comfort over performance. The brakes offered predictable stopping power, and the steering was well-weighted, avoiding the twitchiness found in some competitors.

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 Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a bench seat option available. However, the air vents were insufficient, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy.

The 2023 Ford Escape offered comfortable seating and excellent ergonomics. The front-door armrests aligned with the center console's armrest, and the cupholders were conveniently placed. The Escape's cargo space, at 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded, was adequate but fell short of some competitors. Rear-seat legroom was slightly less than rivals, but headroom was impressive, and the front-seat backs were designed to maximize space for rear passengers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's upper trims boasted premium features like massage modes, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 10.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger and dual 10.1-inch screens for rear passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, with additional options available on higher trims.

The 2023 Ford Escape featured the Sync 4 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 13.2-inch screen on higher trims. Sync 4 was user-friendly, with easy navigation between applications. However, it was occasionally slow to respond, and the volume knob's placement was inconvenient. Despite these minor issues, the system's layout and features were impressive.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and various driver aids.

The 2023 Ford Escape received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side-crash tests. However, it received a Marginal score in IIHS's updated side-impact test. The Escape came standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Co-Pilot360 2.0 added adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology.