2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by removing the third row from the standard Atlas model, lowering the roofline by 2.3 inches, and shortening the SUV’s length by 5.2 inches. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, providing a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the design adjustments resulted in reduced cargo space, offering 40.3 cubic feet behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 77.8 cubic feet. The Atlas Cross Sport boasted a bold and sporty appearance, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels. While the base SE trim's 18-inch wheels seemed undersized, the SE with Technology and SEL trims offered more suitable 20-inch options. The interior featured various color combinations, but the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L extended the classic Grand Cherokee design by more than a foot, maintaining its tough yet upscale appearance. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels, enhancing its bold look. The interior of upper trims was luxurious, with black leather, gold stitching, and matte-finish walnut accents. While not every material was top-tier, the overall feel justified the price. The Grand Cherokee L offered a solid and stiff chassis, providing confident handling and a comfortable ride. The steering, though slightly lazy, contributed to a top-class handling experience, except when compared to high-performance models from Mercedes-AMG and BMW M.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.6-liter V6 producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6, which did not require premium fuel, provided a more satisfying driving experience and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, compared to the turbo-four's 2,000 pounds. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard and VW’s 4Motion AWD system available. The V6 engine, though aging, felt more energetic in the two-row Cross Sport than in the larger Atlas. However, the ride quality was inconsistent, with harshness at lower speeds and excessive softness at higher speeds. The Cross Sport excelled on highways, where the V6 was most efficient, but road noise was more intrusive than expected.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-liter V6 engine delivered 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but it was criticized for its lack of low-end torque and outdated performance. The optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for towing, offering a maximum capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8 also provided a more satisfying sound. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its solid and stiff feel, contributing to confident handling. The air suspension allowed for smooth cornering without excessive lean, and the ride remained comfortable. Jeep offered three 4WD systems, with the most advanced Quadra-Drive II featuring a low-range transfer case and limited-slip differential. The Grand Cherokee L's off-road capabilities were impressive, with up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and sophisticated features rivaling those of Land Rover.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger seven-passenger model, providing ample space for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seating, and a dual-zone climate control system. A panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while rear side-window sunshades offered additional comfort. The Atlas Cross Sport's cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, still provided plenty of space for luggage and other items. However, the lack of lining in storage areas could lead to rattling and scraping noises.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase allowed for more legroom in the second row, making it feel spacious even for taller passengers. Standard second-row captain's chairs and optional 60/40 bench seats provided flexibility. The third row, while power-folding, was best suited for children. The interior featured a well-organized layout with good visibility from the driver's seat. Cargo space was generous, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row, 47 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 85 cubic feet with both rows folded. This made the Grand Cherokee L one of the most spacious in its class.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE came with an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch digital cockpit and an 8-inch touchscreen with additional features like wireless smartphone integration, SiriusXM, and wireless charging. The infotainment system, while comprehensive, could be frustrating to use, with the best experience achieved by pairing a smartphone. The SEL Premium R-Line trim included a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system, delivering excellent audio quality.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's Laredo and Altitude trims featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument panel, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation. The Uconnect 5 system was generally user-friendly, despite some legibility issues. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, was available on upper trims. The Grand Cherokee L boasted advanced tech features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could control navigation and cameras. The rear entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing a comprehensive tech package.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. The Travel Assist system, while accurate, could be overly assertive in its steering inputs. The Atlas Cross Sport received favorable crash-test ratings but did not achieve the highest accolades from safety organizations.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and received five stars in most NHTSA tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features on higher trims included front cross-traffic braking and night vision. The Grand Cherokee L's safety package was comprehensive, contributing to its high safety ratings.