2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward with minor updates from its predecessor, simplifying its lineup to six trim levels, including the new SEL R-Line Black. It offered more standard features across most models, with pricing ranging from $34,355 to $51,505, plus a destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, priced at $53,790, featured R-Line design elements like 21-inch wheels that enhanced its bold, boxy appearance. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, though the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics was a drawback for a vehicle in its price range. The interior's spaciousness and comfort were highlights, but the quality of materials left room for improvement.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, with its extended length, maintained the classic style of its predecessors while adding modern touches. The High Altitude package on our Hydro Blue test model included blacked-out elements and dark gray wheels, giving it a bold look. The interior of upper trims was impressive, with high-quality materials and features like a polished black dash and diamond-patterned stitching. While not every component was top-tier, the overall feel was justified for its price. The Grand Cherokee L's design combined traditional Jeep elements with modern aesthetics, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V6. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and fuel economy ratings of 22-23 mpg combined. The V6, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, its performance was considered leisurely, and its fuel economy was lower at 19-20 mpg combined. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations, but its ride quality was mixed, with a busy ride on rough surfaces and noticeable body float on undulating roads.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but it was criticized for its lack of low-end torque and outdated design. The optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for better performance, especially for towing. The V8's towing capacity was 7,200 pounds, compared to 6,200 pounds with the V6. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension offered a smooth ride. Jeep's 4WD systems, including Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, provided off-road capability, with the air suspension allowing for adjustable ground clearance up to 10.9 inches.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people comfortably, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, making it easy to access. The Atlas offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, causing items to slide and create noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with both rear rows down, surpassing competitors like the Nissan Armada.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided ample legroom for second-row passengers, with standard second-row captain's chairs. The third row, while power-folding, was tight for adults and best suited for children. The interior featured a well-organized layout with good visibility, though some infotainment graphics were hard to read. Cargo space was generous, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row, 47 cubic feet behind the second row, and 85 cubic feet with both rows folded, placing it at the top of its class.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came with the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, offering an 8-inch display as standard and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Car-Net connected services. The user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome process for tuning the radio. The navigation system's voice recognition was unreliable without a subscription to the Car-Net Hotspot plan and Speech Plus.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured Uconnect 5, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The system was generally quick and easy to use, though some legibility issues persisted. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, was available as a standalone option. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that allowed for independent media control. The "FamCam" feature provided a view of the rear seats, and Amazon Fire TV was available for streaming.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and the full IQ Drive safety suite with lane-keeping assistance and emergency assist. However, the Lane Assist system had issues with misinterpreting road markings, and the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. It received four-star ratings in frontal-impact tests from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023, following frame reinforcements. It received five-star ratings in most NHTSA tests, except for a four-star rating in rollover tests. Standard safety features included front knee airbags, forward and rear emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and night vision on higher trims.