2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 marked a significant step in Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a refined luxury brand. With updates from the previous year carrying over, the XT5 showcased a more sophisticated exterior with standard LED lights and 20-inch wheels, enhancing its robust yet elegant appearance. Inside, the XT5 offered a more upscale interior than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, with cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents. The Premium Luxury trim, in particular, exuded a level of elegance second only to the Escalade within the Cadillac lineup.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a testament to Jeep's ability to blend ruggedness with luxury. The L model, introduced first, extended the Grand Cherokee's body to accommodate a third row, making it 11.4 inches longer than the standard model. Its design retained classic Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modern touches like slimmer lighting and improved paint finish elevated its appeal. The interior was a step up, with high-quality materials and a layout reminiscent of luxury brands, offering features like dual high-resolution screens and quilted Nappa leather, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of off-road capability and luxury.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. The V6 was standard on the Sport trim and optional on the Premium Luxury trim. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which was smooth on upshifts but less refined on downshifts. The XT5's throttle response was immediate with the V6, though it could benefit from more low-end torque. Fuel economy for the V6 AWD was better than expected, achieving about 25 mpg over 2,000 miles of testing, compared to the EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two familiar engines: a 3.6-liter V6 with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The V6 was found lacking in power for the vehicle's size, with engine noise intruding into the cabin under acceleration. The V8, available on higher trims, provided a more satisfying performance. Fuel economy for the V6 was decent at an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined, while the V8 was less efficient at 17 mpg combined. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a highlight, offering stellar ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights for various driving conditions.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults comfortably, though the rear seat offered limited headroom for taller passengers. Cargo space was reasonable at 30 cubic feet, though less than some competitors, with a deep rear cargo area hampered by wheel bump-outs. The XT5's interior storage was limited, with small map pockets and a lack of convenient smartphone storage.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L excelled in interior space, offering ample room in all three rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. The cabin featured a sleek Uconnect 5 infotainment system with physical switches for climate and stereo controls, and a central rotary shifter. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was well-equipped, with options for a panoramic roof, multiple USB ports, and a rear-facing camera for monitoring rear passengers. However, the air vents were found to be insufficient, requiring the fan to be kept on high, which was noisy.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering functionalities like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system included a rotary controller for screen navigation, though it crowded the screen's aesthetics. The XT5 also offered a rear camera mirror and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was packed with technology, especially in upper trims, offering features like massage modes for front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect 5 system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 10.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger and dual 10.1-inch touchscreens for rear passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a suite of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-change alert with side blind-zone alert. Cadillac's Night Vision technology enhanced nighttime drivability, and the Teen Driver software allowed parents to monitor and limit vehicle features for young drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time, but it came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. It also included various driver aids like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.