2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes opted for a subtle design, avoiding the ostentatious grilles seen on models like the BMW X7. However, for those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced visual elements such as flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS maintained a luxurious feel with features like leather upholstery and ambient lighting, although some might find the interior too subdued. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well integrated, providing a modern and high-quality cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained its classic Jeep aesthetic while incorporating modern elements. The High Altitude package added bold features like blacked-out grilles and dark grey wheels, enhancing its rugged yet upscale look. The interior of the Grand Cherokee L, especially in upper trims, was impressive, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements. Despite some hard plastics, the overall feel was justified for its price range. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious, with ample legroom and cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. The combination of classic Jeep design and modern touches made it a standout in its segment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine was complemented by the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. This setup provided ample power for the GLS, making it smooth and responsive. The GLS also featured a standard air suspension, although it exhibited some body control issues, leading to a less refined ride. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard engine was a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. While adequate, it was considered underwhelming for a vehicle of its size. An optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, provided better performance, especially for towing, with a capacity of 3,265 kilograms. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis offered confident handling, and its air suspension provided a comfortable ride. The vehicle's 4WD systems were robust, offering excellent off-road capabilities, although the Trail-Rated trim was no longer available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version with captain’s chairs was available. The GLS provided excellent second-row legroom, thanks to its long wheelbase, and competitive cargo space. With all seats in place, it offered 355 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate, making loading and unloading convenient.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L benefited from its extended wheelbase, providing ample legroom for second-row passengers. Standard second-row captain's chairs and a power-folding third row added to its practicality. The Grand Cherokee L offered 481 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 2,407 litres with the second and third rows folded. The vehicle's interior was well-designed, with good visibility and easy access to controls, although some infotainment graphics were hard to read.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and voice recognition. The system offered multiple control options, but the voice recognition was the most user-friendly. The GLS also had an augmented-reality navigation feature, although the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with Uconnect 5, featuring an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. The system was generally quick and easy to use, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features like night vision, a passenger screen, and a 19-speaker McIntosh sound system. The vehicle's tech offerings were extensive, providing a high level of convenience and entertainment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and adaptive cruise control. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L received 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 lane-keep assist. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and 360-degree cameras.