2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more understated appearance compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes avoided the gaudy grilles seen on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX, opting for a more refined look. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions, however, offered more visual drama with features like flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, while basic by GLS standards, still felt luxurious with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the overall high-quality feel.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic tough and upscale look of its predecessors, with modern touches like slim LED lighting and body-color bumpers. Our Hydro Blue test model, equipped with the High Altitude package, featured blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels, giving it a bold appearance. Inside, the upper trims impressed with high-quality materials, although some hard plastics and rougher-grained leather were noticeable. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the added length, and the polished black dash with an optional touchscreen added a touch of class. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was well-appointed, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes’ EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup produced 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft available from the electric motor in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to a bouncy and uncomfortable ride. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, was underwhelming, especially in sport mode. The optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was a better choice, particularly for towing, with a maximum capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8 also delivered a more satisfying sound. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension offered a smooth ride with minimal body lean. Jeep's three available 4WD systems ensured off-road capability, although the Grand Cherokee L was not intended for serious off-roading.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, and the bench seat could slide as one piece, increasing legroom by 3.4 inches. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The air suspension made loading and unloading easier, but some ergonomic issues, like the touchscreen's reach and small sun visors, were noted.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended length provided more legroom for second-row passengers, and the cabin felt spacious even with the front seats slid back. Standard second-row captain's chairs and an optional 60/40 bench seat offered flexibility. The third row, while power-folding, was tight for adults and best suited for children. The Grand Cherokee L boasted ample cargo space, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row, 47 cubic feet behind the second row, and 85 cubic feet with both rows folded. The interior featured good visibility and a well-organized control layout, although some legibility issues with the infotainment system were noted.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, SiriusXM, and voice recognition. The 13-speaker Burmester audio system was standard, with a head-up display optional. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, but the touchpad controller was overly sensitive. The graphics were clear, but the navigation system had some quirks, such as suggesting inefficient routes.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's lower trims featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument panel, while higher trims had a 10.1-inch touchscreen and navigation. All systems ran Uconnect 5, which was generally user-friendly despite some legibility issues. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, was available as a standalone option on upper trims. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could control navigation and cameras. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Fire TV was available for rear entertainment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver-attention monitor, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, surround-view camera, Crosswind Assist, parking assist, and Pre Safe. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems like Active Steering Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. Crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS for models built after May 2023 and scored five stars in NHTSA tests, except for rollover, where it scored four stars. Standard safety features included front knee airbags, forward emergency braking, rear emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking, 360-degree cameras, and night vision. The Active Driving Assist was standard on the Summit Reserve trim.