2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic style of its predecessors while extending its length by over a foot, offering a more luxurious experience than many other midsize SUVs. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured a bold design with blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels, complemented by a sophisticated interior with black leather, gold stitching, and matte-finish walnut accents. Despite some hard plastics and rougher-grained leather, the upper trims provided a classy feel with features like a polished black dash, metal gear selector, and diamond-patterned stitching. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was notably more upscale than competitors like the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, part of the third generation, continued to evolve with subtle design improvements. The front fascia featured a frameless grille with a curved wing bar, creating a distinctive look. The black plastic cladding around the wheel arches included aerodynamic elements to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid balanced rugged utility with refined comfort, offering soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The gray StarTex seats with orange stitching added a design flourish, while chrome-trimmed power window switches provided an upscale touch. The Limited Hybrid trim included features like a heated steering wheel and an optional power moonroof, enhancing the cabin's atmosphere.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, was considered its weakest element, with a sport mode that failed to enhance its performance significantly. The optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, delivering 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for towing, offering a max rating of 7,200 pounds compared to 6,200 with the V6. The V8 also provided a more satisfying sound. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis offered confident handling, especially with air suspension, and the steering, while not the quickest, was adequate for its class. Three optional 4WD systems were available, with the Quadra-Drive II offering the most capability. The air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance, making the Grand Cherokee L a tough competitor in its segment.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter engine paired with a 118-hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 horsepower. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with smoother acceleration than the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions and regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 31 miles per gallon, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 36 mpg. Subaru's AWD system, combined with the X-Mode traction management system, provided excellent capability on various terrains. The steering, while light, was precise, and the revised dual-pinion steering rack improved handling. The off-road-oriented Wilderness trim introduced additional body roll but offered enhanced off-road performance.

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, while tight for adults, was suitable for children. The interior featured a well-organized layout with good visibility and a user-friendly control setup. Cargo space was generous, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row, 47 cubic feet behind the second row, and 85 cubic feet with both rows folded, making it one of the largest in its class.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors by offering more horsepower and cargo space. With 18.6 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seats and 50.6 cubic feet with the rear row folded, it provided practical storage options. The gas tank remained large at 16.6 gallons, allowing for extended driving range. Rear-seat space was generous, with 36.7 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, but the cabin offered functional features like a wireless charging pad and deep door pockets.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims, running Uconnect 5. While generally user-friendly, some legibility issues were noted. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, provided good audio quality. Night vision and Active Driving Assist were standout features, enhancing safety and convenience. The passenger screen offered entertainment and control options, while Amazon Fire TV streaming was available.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but its software was slow and prone to fingerprints. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system's usability lagged behind competitors. The Limited Hybrid trim included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, offering configurable displays. However, the navigation map couldn't display Google Maps, limiting its functionality.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and received five stars from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included forward and rear emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and 360-degree cameras.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS due to lower scores in crash tests. However, the NHTSA awarded it five stars for overall safety. Subaru's EyeSight ADAS suite included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking, providing a comprehensive safety package.