2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder adopted a completely new aesthetic for its fifth-generation design, borrowing cues from its larger siblings, the Rogue and Armada. At the forefront, Nissan introduced a modernized version of its V-motion grille adorned with the new Nissan logo, reminiscent of the first-generation Pathfinder’s three-slot grille. LED headlights flanked the grille, and slim LED daytime running lights extended the visual lines to the massive, slated C-pillar—a creative nod to the original Pathfinder. Buyers had the choice of 14 paint jobs and color combinations, and an optional black roof that dipped down into the C-pillar added a unique flair.

The car's sides and hood were more robust, drawing design inspiration from the Kia Telluride rather than the Toyota Highlander. With sleek, thin taillights wrapping around a large liftgate accented by bold, gate-wide badging, the Pathfinder achieved a distinctly rugged and capable look. Nissan incrementally increased the Pathfinder’s dimensions—0.6 inches wider, 0.2 inches higher, and 0.8 inches shorter—enhancing its planted stance without sacrificing interior legroom.

Available in four trims (S, SV, SL, and Platinum), all trims featured body-color door handles, chrome badging, and a chrome grille. Windows incorporated privacy glass, and speed-sensitive wipers were a standard feature, except on the Platinum trim. Optional equipment included a panoramic moonroof and roof rack available from the SV trim upwards, adding a practical yet luxurious touch.

Inside, the Pathfinder could accommodate up to eight passengers in the S, SV, and SL trims, while the Platinum trim came standard with second-row captain’s chairs, reducing seating to seven. The SL and SV trims also offered the option for these chairs. Fabric upholstery was standard on the S and SV, whereas the SL and Platinum featured semi-aniline leather, quilted on the Platinum for added luxury.

Although a Midnight Edition package was unavailable, Nissan offered individual components for an aftermarket look. Comparatively, the Pathfinder's interior stood its ground or surpassed the quality of its closest competitors, such as the Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L carried forward its reputation as a luxurious and rugged SUV, drawing from its classic boxy design with a seven-slot grille dating back to the 1992 model that debuted at the Detroit auto show. The new L version extended the wheelbase by over a foot without losing the Grand Cherokee's classic allure.

Our tested Hydro Blue model, fitted with the stylish High Altitude package, sported darkened logos, grille, and door handle tops, all complemented by dark gray 21-inch wheels. Black leather with gold stitching edged the cabin, paired with light walnut finishes along the dash and doors. The combination of U-shaped fenders, square greenhouse, modern slim LED lights, body-color bumpers with integrated exhaust tips, and a slightly curved black roofline, invoked a contemporary yet timeless design.

Premium trims offered an upscale experience, albeit with a few mixed material choices such as hard plastics in the lower dash. A polished black dash with an optional touchscreen, well-damped metal gear shift knob, and luxurious toggle switches further enhanced the cabin's elegance. The Grand Cherokee L came alive with classy details, like diamond-patterned stitching on the seats and aluminum speaker grilles. While lower trims traded off these luxuries for affordability, they remained noticeably superior to their competition, including the Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet models.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder carried forward its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While some enthusiasts might have hoped for a hybrid or electric option, the powerful V6 paired with Nissan's new nine-speed automatic transmission proved beneficial. Sourced from ZF, this new transmission replaced the older CVT model, offering smoother and more responsive shifters. Available in FWD and AWD configurations, the Pathfinder offered various drive and terrain modes: five for FWD and seven for AWD. Hill-start assist and hill descent control were standard and specifically beneficial for AWD models.

Fuel efficiency varied by model. The FWD version reached an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined, while the AWD version slightly increased to 27 mpg on the highway but maintained the same 23 mpg combined. However, the fully-equipped Platinum AWD version fell to 20 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. Nevertheless, the Pathfinder could tow up to 6,000 pounds, enabled by features like a Class II tow hitch (standard in Platinum) and stabilizing trailer sway control technology.

The Pathfinder maintained stability and absorbency with an improved suspension setup, handling road imperfections with ease. Its steering was responsive, with tight turning making it easier for city driving and off-road trails. While towing, the transmission might struggle slightly at speed, but merely releasing the accelerator helped re-adjust to the right gear.

In comparison, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L faltered with its standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, generating 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, struggled in sport mode, showing its age and performance limitations. Jeep has yet to release the smoother, quieter turbo inline-six found in the Wagoneer for the Grand Cherokee L.

For those needing more power, Jeep offered an optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, producing 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque—and recommended for those planning to tow. The V8 allowed a 7,200-pound towing capacity compared to the V6’s 6,200 pounds. Despite the additional power, the V8’s fuel economy sat at a lower 14 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined for the 4x4 configuration, whereas the V6 reached 18/25/21.

The Grand Cherokee L's saving grace came with its highly sophisticated chassis. Equipped with air suspension, the vehicle handled corners confidently with minimal head toss or excessive lean. Its steering, although needing more responsiveness, was class-leading among all but race-tuned models from Mercedes-AMG and BMW M. Jeep provided three 4WD options, with Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Drive II (with an LSD and a low-range transfer case), and Quadra-Trac II, which offered substantial versatility. The air suspension further allowed the Grand Cherokee L to adjust ground clearance up to 10.9 inches, with adaptable suspension settings for improved aerodynamics and parking.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder emphasized quiet and comfortable interiors, reducing road noise via enhanced insulation, laminated glass, and door-mounted mirrors. Nissan focused on flexibility, from easy loading via the wide-opening doors and a rear door Intelligent Key, to accommodating three car seats across the second-row bench seat. Innovations included EZ Flex Latch and Glide technology for easy third-row access and a detachable second-row center console for increased cargo options. The front console also upgraded to a 13.4-liter storage space thanks to the electric shifter.

Cargo configurations offered 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, enough for four golf bags or six suitcases, increasing to 45.0 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. Flush rear cargo spaces accommodated wide items like plywood, and 54 liters of under-floor cargo space provided additional storage options. Comfort extended to the front and second rows with options like heated and ventilated seats, manually or power-adjustable seating arrangements, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Practical touches included 16 cup and bottle holders and accessible rear climate controls, power liftgate options, and motion-activated lift gates for the Platinum trim.

Comparatively, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L added five inches to its wheelbase, enhancing second-row legroom significantly. Standard second-row captain’s chairs offered maximum comfort, supplemented with a center console in Summit and Summit Reserve trims that provided multiple storage options and superior climate control features. The third row, power-folding for convenience, remained ideal for children and smaller adults.

Cargo space set the Grand Cherokee L apart with 17 cubic feet behind the third row, extending to 47 cubic feet with the third row down, and offering up to 85 cubic feet with both rows folded. These dimensions topped the class. Jeep maintained good driver visibility, featuring a multifunctional touchscreen surrounded by handy buttons for climate and audio controls and advanced features like lane departure and parking assistance.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came well-equipped with technology designed for ease and convenience. Standard tech included an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, six-speaker audio, and comprehensive smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, features like Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant, Bluetooth, and satellite radio boosted connectivity. Optional upgrades introduced a premium 13-speaker Bose audio system and a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Upper trims enjoyed a larger nine-inch screen, wireless charging, and navigation, ensuring a richly-featured driving experience across all grades.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L embraced the latest in in-car technology with Uconnect 5. Base models like the Laredo and Altitude featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, while higher trims enjoyed a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Navigation, 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, and wireless smartphone integration raised the tech bar. Groundbreaking features included night vision and the versatile 16-way power front seats with massage functions. For family convenience, the passenger screen provided multifaceted control over the entertainment system, including Amazon Fire TV streaming via Jeep's LTE connection.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of safety features under the Nissan Safety Shield 360 umbrella. This package included critical technologies such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Additional safety features included a driver alertness monitor, rear door alert, forward-collision warning, and standard rearview cameras. Upper trims further benefited from a surround-view monitor. Despite this extensive safety suite, the vehicle had yet to be tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.

For the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, accolades like the Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS—post-May 2023 builds—and high scores from the NHTSA reinforced its safety credibility. With a focus on front-driver and passenger safety, standard features included knee airbags, forward emergency braking, rear emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. For enhancements, buyers could opt for features like front cross-traffic braking, camera washing systems, 360-degree cameras, and night vision in higher trims, making it a heavily fortified option for safety-conscious buyers.