2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L continued the legacy of its predecessors with a design that was both tough and upscale. Its extended length did not compromise the classic style, maintaining the quintessential Jeep look with U-shaped fenders and a square greenhouse. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package added a bold touch with blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels. Inside, the upper trims offered a luxurious experience with features like a polished black dash, a thick metal gear selector, and diamond-patterned stitching. Although not every material was top-tier, the overall feel justified its price, surpassing competitors like the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, available in Rugged and Sport trims, presented a modern, boxy design consistent with Toyota's SUV lineup. The Woodland trim emphasized off-road capabilities with features like chunky all-terrain tires and a black roof rack, while the GR Sport trim showcased racier elements such as red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The interior offered a blend of practicality and style, with features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen. The RAV4 PHEV maintained a comfortable ride with a strengthened chassis and offered a spirited driving experience, especially in the GR Sport trim.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's performance was hindered by its standard V6 engine, which produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The engine's noise was well-muffled, but its lack of low-end torque made it less than ideal for a heavy SUV. The optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was a better choice, especially for towing, with a max rating of 7,200 pounds. The chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for a smooth ride. The Grand Cherokee L offered three 4WD systems, with the Quadra-Drive II being the most advanced, featuring a low-range transfer case and a limited-slip differential.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with a larger battery pack, delivering a total of 324 horsepower. The PHEV offered an estimated electric range of 52 miles and a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The all-wheel-drive system, with a large front motor and a smaller rear motor, provided quick acceleration and seamless power transitions. The GR Sport trim, with its lower ride height and performance tires, offered enhanced handling and reduced body roll. The RAV4 PHEV's various driving modes, including EV, Hybrid, and Charge, allowed for versatile performance tailored to different driving conditions.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase 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 user-friendly layout with good visibility and a plethora of buttons for easy access to various controls. Cargo space was generous, with 17 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85 cubic feet with both rows folded, making it one of the largest in its class.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered a well-equipped interior with features like a power driver's seat and heated front seats. The interior space was optimized with clever storage solutions, although the cargo area was slightly reduced compared to the standard RAV4, offering 33.6 cubic feet. The rear legroom was sufficient for taller passengers, but the panoramic sunroof reduced headroom. The interior maintained a comfortable and practical layout, with features like a wireless device charger and deep door pockets for added convenience.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim, with Uconnect 5 providing a quick and easy-to-use interface. The McIntosh sound system, with 19 speakers, offered good audio quality, although the surround imaging could be improved. The Grand Cherokee L boasted advanced tech features like night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that allowed for independent media control and navigation assistance.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch option on higher trims. The new Arene operating system improved responsiveness and user interface, with customizable displays and a Voice Assistant for various commands. The RAV4 PHEV also featured a built-in dash cam and a range of driver-assist systems, enhancing both convenience and safety.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and scored five stars in most NHTSA tests. It came with standard safety features like forward emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like front cross-traffic braking and night vision on higher trims.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with limited hands-free driving. The RAV4 PHEV's safety enhancements aimed to improve its already strong safety record, with crash-testing results pending.