4 Things Consumer Reports Hates About the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supersizes the Grand Cherokee by providing third-row seating. It can accommodate up to seven riders and adds more cargo space. Best of all, gaining an extra row doesn’t compromise the SUV’s off-roading chops or maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L impresses many critics, but what about Consumer Reports? CR testers have finally reached a consensus: This midsize crossover is pretty good, but some of its flaws can’t be ignored.
1. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L suffers from sluggish acceleration
Consumer Reports tested the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L with the standard V6, which makes 290 hp and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This model needs nearly nine seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. By comparison, the smaller Grand Cherokee is a full second faster. You can’t even blame the L’s sluggishness on the third row because most vehicles in the segment accelerate faster, CR explains.
In addition, the Grand Cherokee L’s fuel economy isn’t great. Consumer Reports observed 19 mpg combined city/highway. However, testers appreciated the Grand Cherokee L’s agreeable transmission. With the standard V6, you’ll also get an impressive towing capacity by midsize SUV standards (6,200 pounds).
To unlock the highest towing capacity, you’ll need to upgrade to the available 357-hp V8 engine. According to Car and Driver, this model can reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds.
2. CR doesn’t like the SUV’s long stopping/braking distances
On dry pavement, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L takes at least 141 feet to come to a complete stop from 60 mph. At the same speed on wet pavement, it needs 150 feet to stop. The two-row Grand Cherokee’s scores in these tests were 138 feet and 145 feet.
However, CR was satisfied with the Grand Cherokee L’s performance on the avoidance maneuver test, saying its handling is secure overall. And though steering feedback leaves much to be desired, it does a good job keeping body roll in check.
3. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L has confusing controls
Both the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and its shorter sibling have numerous frustrating controls for climate, safety, and convenience functions. The layout also gets confusing at times.
For example, the buttons for some essential safety features are located at the top of the infotainment screen. CR says these buttons are easy to miss because the sun often reflects off the trim surrounding them. You’re also forced to use the infotainment system to operate some climate controls.
The basic infotainment system can lag occasionally, but it’s intuitive for the most part. However, any extra features added in higher trims can quickly clutter the interface’s menus.
4. The V6 engine is too loud
CR says the V6 engine requires substantial revving to operate the 2022 Grand Cherokee L at higher speeds. Though Car and Driver liked the engine note of the V8, CR testers found the V6’s whining off-putting. Fortunately, exterior noise is apparent only when the vehicle is going 65 mph or faster.
By contrast, Consumer Reports didn’t complain about any excessive noise in its review of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In previous years, CR reported this SUV’s V6 was actually quiet compared to its rivals’ powertrains. But take that with a grain of salt — Jeep slightly retuned the V6 and V8 engines for the redesigned 2022 model.
To be fair, Consumer Reports likes many aspects of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. It offers an agreeable ride and a third row suitable for adults. With a few powertrain improvements and interior adjustments, this SUV could be even better.
