2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, extending 11.4 inches to accommodate a third row of seats. Its wheelbase stretched an additional five inches, providing more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the extra length, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, as a 2021 model, before 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 was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and quilted Nappa leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E, an electric crossover SUV, initially surprised enthusiasts with its Mustang styling cues. However, it proved to be a successful move, with over 150,000 units built since its 2021 debut. The Mach-E's design incorporated Mustang elements like galloping horse emblems and tri-bar taillights, contributing to its popularity. Available in various trims, the Mach-E ranged in price from $45,995 to $63,995, with eligibility for federal and state incentives. The GT trim, with its distinctive look and performance features, competed with other EVs in its class. Inside, the Mach-E GT offered a luxury feel with artificial leather, synthetic suede, and high-tech features, blending past and future in an appealing package.

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 and available in RWD or 4WD. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking for the vehicle's weight, requiring high revs and resulting in engine noise. The V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, provided a more satisfying experience. The 4xe plug-in hybrid, not tested, promised 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The V6 achieved an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering adjustable ride heights and driving modes for various terrains. It boasted a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds for RWD models and 7,200 with 4WD.

The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E offered a range of configurations, with power outputs from 266 to 480 horsepower and torque from 317 to 634 lb-ft. The Mach-E GT, with an extended-range battery and AWD, delivered 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. The GT Performance Edition increased torque to 634 lb-ft and reduced the range to 260 miles. The Mach-E featured driving modes like Whisper, Engage, and Unbridled, with the GT offering an exclusive Unbridled Extend mode for track use. The EV's dual-motor system provided impressive acceleration, though steering lacked engagement. The ride quality was firm, but the Mach-E GT remained exciting to drive, achieving better efficiency than expected during testing.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a sleek interface and physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Laredo and Altitude trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch version. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with second-row captain's chairs standard and a 60/40 split bench seat optional. A panoramic roof and USB ports enhanced comfort, though air vents were insufficient. The third row accommodated adults, making it a practical family vehicle.

The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E, as a crossover SUV, offered seating for five and 34.1 cubic feet of cargo space, including a front trunk. The Mach-E GT featured eight-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, wrapped in black ActiveX artificial leather and Miko synthetic suede. The interior included a tiered center console with storage areas. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed a panoramic glass roof and supportive seating. The Mach-E provided 29.7 cu-ft of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 59.7 cu-ft with seats folded. The front trunk added 4.7 cu-ft of storage, designed for easy cleaning.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, including massage modes, a head-up display, night vision, and an Active Driving Assist 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, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The Summit trims added advanced features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition.

The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E featured a 15.5-inch touchscreen running on Ford's Sync 4A platform, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system learned user habits and provided access to climate control and vehicle settings. The Mach-E included a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display. Phone As A Key technology allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though lacking a radio tuning knob and driving mode button.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard safety features like driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control.

The 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E came with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system. BlueCruise 1.2 added features like lane-change function and predictive speed assist. The Mach-E received top marks from IIHS and was a Top Safety Pick for 2022. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, with top scores for side-impact protection and rollover resistance.