2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork, presented a balanced aesthetic that was neither offensive nor overly dramatic. Despite its resemblance to an athletic sneaker from certain angles, the GLE Coupe managed to maintain a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the vehicle was as luxurious as expected, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech feel, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. However, the lack of traditional controls made it initially challenging to navigate the vehicle's technology.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, redesigned for a sportier two-row version, retained the classic Jeep design elements while introducing modern touches. Available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of options to suit different needs. The new design drew inspiration from the 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee mirrored the Grand Cherokee L, with the base Laredo providing good quality and the Summit Reserve offering premium features like quilted leather seats and a McIntosh audio system. The gloss black finish on higher trims, however, could be problematic due to reflections.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp at 6,100 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 19 mpg, though our test vehicle achieved 18.5 mpg. The GLE 53 Coupe also boasted a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with fully variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, and the AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes enhanced performance. In urban settings, the speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering made maneuvering easy, though the optional AMG Performance braking system could be challenging to modulate. The GLE Coupe felt nimble and composed, with a reserve of performance available when needed.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered RWD or 4WD and came with either a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 hp at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, with a tow rating of 6,200 pounds. The available 5.7-liter V8 engine delivered 357 hp at 5,150 rpm and 390 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm, increasing the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. Three 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering different levels of off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim, designed for serious off-roading, featured Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. The Grand Cherokee's eight-speed automatic transmission had a dial-style shifter that could be tricky to use. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 17 mpg with the V8 and 4WD to 21 mpg with the V6. The Trailhawk trim excelled in off-road conditions, while the V6 engine was preferred for its balance of efficiency and performance. The Grand Cherokee felt nimble and athletic, with excellent ride quality, though the Quadra-Lift suspension could dull the driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe technically seated five people, but it was more comfortable for four, especially if the rear passengers were adults. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage, making them comfortable for long drives and supportive during spirited driving. Forward visibility was good, but rear visibility was limited, necessitating the use of available cameras. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo area offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included heated rear seats, a four-zone climate control system, and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided comfort for the driver and front passenger across all trims, with higher trims offering 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 to the cabin. The air conditioning performed well in moderate temperatures, though it had struggled in hotter conditions during previous tests. Rear-seat legroom was tight for taller passengers, and the plastic front seatback trim could be uncomfortable. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row Grand Cherokee L provided more cargo space and rear legroom.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came standard with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens under a single piece of glass. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging. The Burmester surround-sound audio system was also standard. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology that responded well to commands. However, the touchpad on the center console could be inadvertently activated. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D audio system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, offering a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and up to five interior touchscreens. The McIntosh high-end audio system and dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV integration were notable options. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, standard on all trims, featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio were standard. The system supported two Bluetooth connections simultaneously and offered navigation, HD Radio, and SiriusXM Guardian connected services. The voice recognition technology worked well, and the optional front passenger interactive display provided additional entertainment and assistance options.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system emitted a "pink noise" tone before a collision to protect hearing. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The lane-keeping assistance technology was effective, and the adaptive cruise control's route-based speed adaptation could be turned off. Crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an extensive collection of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a safety cage composed mainly of aluminum and high-strength steel. The new Intersection Collision Assist provided front cross-traffic warning, and Active Driving Assist offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. The system worked well on highways but could disconnect on tight curves. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022. The previous-generation Grand Cherokee had mediocre crash protection, but the new model's improved structure and safety features were expected to perform better in crash tests.