2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a familiar sight, echoing the design traditions of its predecessors while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. Jeep's approach to the redesign was unconventional, launching the three-row Grand Cherokee L first, followed by the sportier two-row model. Available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of options to suit different preferences. Its design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a black roof option. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the Summit Reserve trim offering premium features like quilted leather and a McIntosh audio system. Despite some reflections on higher trim controls, the Grand Cherokee provided a blend of style, comfort, and purpose.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of elegance and ruggedness, with a design characterized by a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. Its exterior elements, including blistered fender swells and oversized air intakes, added a touch of ruggedness. The CX-50 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged variant, with the latter providing up to 256 hp. The interior featured a driver-focused design with quality materials and a mix of analog and digital gauges. The CX-50's ride quality was firm, and it handled well on various terrains, offering a driving experience reminiscent of a modern Mazda6 station wagon with a Subaru Outback treatment. The upcoming Meridian Edition promised additional off-road capabilities, though it might not match the Subaru Wilderness models on challenging terrain.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with engine options including a 3.6-liter V6 producing 293 hp and a 5.7-liter V8 delivering 357 hp. The V6 provided a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds, while the V8 increased it to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available, with Quadra-Drive II offering the most off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee's eight-speed automatic transmission was paired with a dial-style shifter, which some found tricky to use. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, featuring an air suspension, all-terrain tires, and advanced off-road technologies. The Grand Cherokee's ride quality was praised, with or without the Quadra-Lift air suspension, though the V6 was preferred for its efficiency and balance.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two powertrains: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 hp. The turbo engine provided a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to the 2,000 pounds of the base engine. The CX-50's six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive ensured smooth acceleration and handling. Fuel economy estimates were 27 mpg for the base engine and 25 mpg for the turbo, though real-world results were slightly lower. The CX-50's driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, worked with G-Vectoring Control to maintain consistent vehicle behavior. The CX-50's ride quality was firm, and it handled well on various terrains, though it lacked a downhill assist control system. The turbo engine provided ample power for towing, though it might struggle on steep grades.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a comfortable interior for the driver and front passenger, with higher trims providing features like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, especially for off-roading, and the available panoramic sunroof added an airy feel. Rear-seat room was tight for adults, and the two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control enhancing comfort. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though they could use more side bolstering. The rear seat was spacious, with rear air vents and charging ports. Cargo space was 31.4 cubic feet, expandable to 56.3 cubic feet, with a long load floor and side bins for securing items.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was equipped with advanced technology, including a head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens for information and entertainment. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available on most trims. The optional front passenger interactive display provided additional entertainment options.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included an 8.8-inch display on the base model, with a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. Mazda Connect's user interface was not touchscreen-friendly, but the CX-50 allowed touchscreen control for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available Bose 12-speaker sound system and Active Driving Display added to the technology offerings.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust safety structure with aluminum and high-strength steel, along with a comprehensive package of advanced driver assistance systems. Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist were notable features, with the latter providing Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, with a generous standard package of driving assistance systems. The CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The driving assistance systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.