2021 INFINITI QX50 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 made a notable impression in the luxury compact crossover segment with its engineering prowess, particularly its VC-Turbo engine. Its design, while subjective, was distinctive, featuring a large honeycomb grille and a curved hood with athletic bulges that added a sporty flair. The rear design included a unique chrome strip, adding character to the vehicle. The panoramic moonroof enhanced the cabin's airy feel, though visibility was slightly compromised by thick B-pillars and a short rear window. The interior boasted soft-touch materials, aluminum trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, with heated and cooled front seats providing comfort in varying temperatures. The controls were user-friendly, though the gear shift system was a mix of traditional and modern elements.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an elegant extension of the standard Grand Cherokee, with an 11.4-inch longer body to accommodate a third row of seats. Its design retained classic Jeep elements like the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modern touches included slimmer lighting and improved paint finish. The interior was luxurious, with high-resolution screens, real wood, and quilted Nappa leather, offering a Mercedes-like quality. The spacious cabin accommodated adults comfortably in all rows, and the optional air suspension provided a smooth ride. The Grand Cherokee L's design was both functional and stylish, with thoughtful features like a central rotary shifter and ample storage space.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offered paddle shifters and downshift rev-matching. The VC-Turbo engine adjusted the compression ratio for a balance of power and efficiency, though its unique operation might not appeal to all buyers. The CVT, while refined over the years, still had a reputation for droning. The QX50 offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The drive mode selector allowed for customization of engine and transmission settings, with Sport mode enhancing responsiveness and Eco mode prioritizing fuel efficiency.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, while the V8 delivered a robust 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The plug-in hybrid 4xe variant, with 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, was a promising option, though untested. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was impressive, with precise steering and handling, and the optional air suspension provided adjustable ride heights for various driving conditions. The vehicle's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 7,200 pounds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 offered a spacious interior, with ample hip, shoulder, and headroom, even with the panoramic moonroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed 38.7 inches of legroom, and the sliding second-row seats allowed for flexible cargo space. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet of space, expanding to 64.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The QX50 was equipped with numerous storage options, including cupholders and charging ports.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek graphics. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a bench seat available as an option. The panoramic roof and large windows enhanced the cabin's openness, though the air vents were less effective. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample USB ports and storage solutions, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 came with the InTouch infotainment system, featuring dual display screens and a suite of connected services. Standard technology included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 16-speaker Bose audio system. The ProPilot Assist system provided advanced driving assistance, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a range of high-tech features, especially in upper trims. These included massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional passenger touchscreen and rear-seat entertainment screens. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. The vehicle received high ratings from the IIHS for crash protection and front crash prevention.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by major safety organizations at the time, but it came with standard safety features like knee airbags, rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The vehicle also included various driver aids for enhanced safety.