2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, while not traditionally SUV-like, maintained a familiar Lexus aesthetic. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line enhancements, including a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels, the NX's styling had not evolved significantly over the years. Inside, the NX offered a radical design that had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials like wood trim. The Black Line package added sporty touches, but the overall material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

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. Its design was unmistakably Jeep, featuring a seven-slot grille and modernized lighting. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials like quilted Nappa leather and real wood. The spacious cabin offered comfort across all rows, and the optional air suspension provided a smooth ride. The Grand Cherokee L's design and build quality were reminiscent of a high-end vehicle, offering a premium feel without sharing parts with other brands.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on fuel efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with seamless power delivery. Drive modes like Eco and Sport offered minimal impact on performance.

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, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, while the V8 delivered a robust 357 horsepower. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights. The plug-in hybrid variant promised better performance, but the V6's fuel economy was decent at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats offered good support, and features like a power-adjustable driver's seat and available heated and ventilated seats added comfort. However, rear visibility was compromised by the sloping roofline and thick pillars. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provided ample space across all three rows, with even the third row accommodating adults comfortably. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical switches for essential controls. The Grand Cherokee L offered a range of tech features, including a panoramic roof and multiple USB ports. However, the air vents were small, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt outdated, with text-heavy menus and poor graphics. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

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

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard safety features like knee airbags and a rear seat alert, along with various driver aids.