Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic style of its predecessors while extending its length by over a foot. This model exuded a bold presence, especially with the High Altitude package that featured blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels. The interior of the upper trims was impressive, with luxurious touches like black leather with gold stitching and matte-finish light walnut accents. Although not every material was top-tier, the overall feel was justified for its price point. The Grand Cherokee L's design combined quintessential Jeep elements with modern features, ensuring it looked both tough and upscale.

In contrast, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look with slight styling changes, making it resemble a conventional gas-powered car more than an EV. The Bolt's tall and narrow design prioritized utility and interior space over a sporty stance. The interior saw a more dramatic makeover, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. Despite the hard plastic surfaces that reinforced its budget feel, the Bolt offered practical storage solutions and adequate space for passengers. The RS trim added a touch of sportiness with gloss black exterior trim and Evotex synthetic leather upholstery.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's performance was hindered by its standard V6 engine, which produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine was considered underwhelming for the SUV's size, and the sport mode did little to enhance its capabilities. However, the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, provided a more robust performance, especially for towing. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis offered confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for smooth cornering and a comfortable ride. The SUV featured three optional four-wheel drive systems, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack and a motor delivering 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for a 0-60 mph time in the low seven-second range, making it quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs. The Bolt's ride was firm but not overly stiff, and its low center of gravity contributed to agile handling. The EPA estimated a range of 262 miles on a full charge, with a charging speed of up to 150 kW. The Bolt also offered one-pedal driving and vehicle-to-load charging capabilities.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended length provided ample legroom for second-row passengers, with standard captain's chairs and optional bench seating. The third row was best suited for children, while cargo space was generous, offering up to 85 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The interior featured a well-organized layout with accessible controls, although some infotainment graphics were difficult to read. Visibility from the driver's seat was good, and the SUV offered numerous storage options.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt provided a more upright driving position with plenty of space for larger occupants. The rear seats offered ample headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor that benefited center-seat passengers. Cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with additional storage available under the floor. The Bolt's interior featured practical storage solutions, including a large bin with dividers, a deep center armrest bin, and a wireless phone charger.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came equipped with Uconnect 5, featuring an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with navigation standard on higher trims. The SUV offered advanced tech features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could play video independently. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, was available as an option on upper trims.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. While Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, the system offered logical menus and quick responses. The optional Technology package added features like a surround-view camera system and a wireless charging pad. The Bolt's navigation system could locate charging stations and precondition the battery for optimal charging.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and scored five stars in most NHTSA tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features like night vision and 360-degree cameras were available on higher trims.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not available at the time of writing, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise was available for an additional cost, offering hands-free highway driving.