2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color, which eliminated almost all chrome from its exterior. This gave the SUV a bold, dark appearance, reminiscent of a rolling black hole. However, the GX's design was not without its drawbacks. Within a day, a layer of dust could make the vehicle look worn and dated. Despite its modern touches like the signature spindle grille and LED headlights, the GX's overall design felt reminiscent of its predecessors, maintaining a classic yet somewhat outdated look. Inside, the cabin was crafted with the quality and refinement expected from Lexus, offering a quiet and comfortable ride, though the interior design echoed themes from earlier models.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L presented a more modern and luxurious aesthetic. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured a blacked-out grille, logos, and door handles, complemented by dark gray 21-inch wheels and a sleek black roofline. The interior of the upper trims was impressive, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements like diamond-patterned stitching and aluminum speaker grilles. While not every component matched the luxury of high-end brands, the overall feel was upscale and justified for its price range. The Grand Cherokee L managed to blend classic Jeep design elements with modern touches, creating a vehicle that looked ready to stand the test of time.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds, aided by its torque delivery at 3,500 rpm. The SUV featured a six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, distributing power 40% to the front and 60% to the rear wheels. However, its boxy shape resulted in a high drag coefficient of 0.35, contributing to a modest EPA fuel economy estimate of 16 mpg combined. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) enhanced its off-road capabilities and on-road stability, though the steering and brake pedal required some acclimation.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a choice between a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower and an optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V8 was recommended for towing, with a capacity of 7,200 pounds compared to the V6's 6,200 pounds. The V6's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, while the V8's was lower at 17 mpg. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, especially with the air suspension, which allowed for adjustable ride height and improved aerodynamics. The SUV offered three 4WD systems, with the most advanced including a low-range transfer case and limited-slip differential, making it a capable off-roader.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with a 10-way power-adjustable seat. Its tall, narrow design made it maneuverable in various settings, though the steering required effort. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim. The second-row seats provided ample space, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access, reducing cargo space. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, with limited cargo capacity of 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L benefited from its extended wheelbase, offering generous legroom for second-row passengers. Standard captain's chairs and optional bench seating provided flexibility, while the third row was best suited for children. The interior featured a well-organized control layout, though some infotainment graphics were hard to read. Cargo space was abundant, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row and 85 cubic feet with all seats folded, making it one of the most spacious in its class.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, with a CD player for nostalgia. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and voice recognition was quick and accurate. However, the placement of stereo controls was awkward, and the Mark Levinson audio system was optional. Standard technology included Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with Uconnect 5, featuring an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with navigation standard on higher trims. The McIntosh sound system was available, though its surround imaging was lacking. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen for entertainment and navigation control. The FamCam allowed monitoring of rear passengers, and Amazon Fire TV was available for streaming.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but more advanced safety technologies were absent.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and scored five stars in most NHTSA tests. Standard safety features included knee airbags, forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and night vision.