2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Subaru Outback

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. This additional length, along with a five-inch longer wheelbase, provided more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the extra mass, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, as a 2021 model, set a high standard for the two-row version that followed. 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, and quilted Nappa leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality without shared parts.

The 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift, featuring a new front end with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray cladding. This gave the Outback a more aggressive appearance, especially with the addition of a simulated skid plate and fog lights. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the bold design. The Outback offered six trim levels, with the Onyx Edition becoming more accessible by offering a base powertrain option. The interior of the Touring trim was upscale, with Java Brown leather and a cohesive design. Despite some hard plastic elements, the interior maintained a quality feel. The Outback's practicality was evident in its design, with features like a robust roof rack and easy entry and exit due to its high stance.

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 produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but it struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, providing a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was impressive, with a stellar ride composure and steering feel. The optional air suspension offered five ride height settings, enhancing both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L had a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds for RWD models and 7,200 pounds with 4WD.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured a standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While the CVT made good use of the power at lower speeds, the engine felt underpowered for passing and climbing. The turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four in the XT models offered 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing a more responsive driving experience. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced its off-road capabilities, while the suspension tuning provided a comfortable ride. The Outback's towing capacity was 3,500 pounds, but the standard engine struggled with this weight. The XT models, while less fuel-efficient, offered better performance and overall satisfaction.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek interface. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were easy to use, and the central rotary shifter was intuitive. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all rows, with second-row captain's chairs standard and a 60/40 split bench seat optional. The panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin's spacious feel, though the air vents were insufficient for proper airflow.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and flat door sills. The Touring trim offered a comfortable interior with power-adjustable seats, premium Nappa leather, and heated front and rear seats. The Outback's cargo space was generous, with 32.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 75.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The high ground clearance made entry and exit easy, and the interior provided ample storage options, though more practical storage space could be added.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology features, including multiple massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the optional rear-seat entertainment system included dual 10.1-inch touchscreens. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured the Starlink 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trims. The system included a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and optional navigation and Harman Kardon audio system. The voice recognition system was limited, but the digital rearview mirror and front-view camera were useful features. The Outback lacked a surround-view camera, which would have been a valuable addition.

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 2023 Subaru Outback earned top safety ratings from IIHS, thanks to its EyeSight system, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency steering. The Outback's safety systems were effective, though the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist could be improved for a more natural feel.