2023 Honda Pilot vs. 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Comparison between 2023 Honda Pilot and 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
1. Introduction
The automotive market has been more competitive in 2023. Numerous automotive brands are already launching their newest products. A sports utility vehicle (SUV) is a suitable choice for a family car. An SUV should have a spacious cabin and, of course, safety features. There are two new SUVs offered from American and Japanese automotive brands which have already received a lot of attention. First is the 2023 Honda Pilot, which is the latest generation of Honda Pilot since the first generation was released in 2002. This midsize SUV gives a refreshed design and more modern features. The next one is the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. The new Grand Cherokee L is the first Grand Cherokee model that has a 3-row seat. The latest generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a bolder style and more advanced features. These two SUVs are both in different segments. The Honda Pilot is targeting middle-class people who have a family, while the Grand Cherokee L is targeting higher-class people who want a very comfortable and luxury family car. These two cars are both family-oriented and have great safety features. So in this article, we will compare the safety features between the Honda Pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee. (Sok & Kusaka, 2023)
1.1 Key Features of the 2023 Honda Pilot
An interior redesign has created a cleaner, versatile center console with an abundance of available USB ports, and a new climate control system with a built-in air purifier. Tri-zone climate control is available in the EX model and standard in the above. High ventilated and heated seats and steering wheel are available in the top two trims. Redesigned headlights and a new 20-inch wheel design create a sleeker profile. A standard intelligent variable torque management system has been added for the all-wheel drive models. Elite models will come with a new snow mode integrated into the intelligent traction management system. Honda Sensing is standard in all but the base model, sporting adaptive cruise control and a lane-keeping assist system designed especially for curves in the road. Elite models will come with the first implementation of a rear seat reminder and a driver's side blind spot camera integrated into the dash. The 2023 Honda Pilot aims to provide a highly advanced, smooth, and comfortable ride with the ability to tackle any weather and terrain.
Maximum fuel economy is 27mpg in a new special edition 'SE' variant. CabinTalk, a feature by which the driver can broadcast their voice across the vehicle speakers and headphones, has been enhanced to allow the driver to talk with the rear row alone or everyone in the vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard in all but the base model. Wireless phone charging is standard in Touring and Elite trim, and a nine-inch rear seat entertainment system will only be available on the Elite model.
Features are what make a car stand out from the rest. The 2023 Honda Pilot comes with a 3.5L V6 engine with optional all-wheel drive. Trailer stability assist is standard across all models of the updated Pilot, also lending itself to additional camera views so you never lose track of the load attached to the back. Speaking of which, a new 13-pin trailer harness has been integrated into the new Pilot, providing connection integrity and enhanced performance of trailer lights, brakes, and other electrical accessories.
1.2 Key Features of the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Compared to the Honda Pilot, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L has been equipped with limit-pushing and segment-leading capabilities. These are achieved through features such as three available four-wheel drive systems and an available Quadra-Lift air suspension. The segment leading capability, Jeep also offers greater versatility with three available 4x4 systems, which include Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II with Rear ELSD. The 2023 Honda Pilot has been built with off-road capabilities in mind, however, its i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system and intelligent traction management do not offer as much versatility. Competing with the Honda Pilot's towing capabilities, the Grand Cherokee L is also able to tow up to 2,812 kg (6,200 lb) with the V6 powertrain. This is a considerable improvement over previous generations and in combination with electronic adaptive damping suspension, hill descent control, and a Selec-Terrain traction management system, it enables an unprecedented level of on-road refinement and off-road capability in the full-size SUV segment. Finally, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L continues to build upon its stunning legacy with true American design and engineering. With an all-new interior featuring modern, handcrafted details, authentic materials, and state-of-the-art technology. This is the epitome of luxury and function, and Jeep has been able to do so without sacrificing the capability and versatility which Grand Cherokee has come to be defined by.
2. Design and Exterior
Highlights the contrast between tailoring of the Pilot and the Grand Cherokee. Suggests that the Pilot is undergoing big changes during the mid-generation refresh. The plain, straightforward styling with slab sides and conventional front and rear styling has been replaced with more surfacing and a design that's more deeply influenced by Honda's light trucks. It's chunkier and more assertive, though the two models still couldn't be mistaken for each other. Whether you like the new look better is subjective. The Grand Cherokee meanwhile is looking like a larger and more mature evolution of its predecessor. It's got all the traditional Jeep styling cues. From some angles it looks a bit minivan-like, particularly at the rear, and it's not quite as cohesive or rugged as the outgoing model, but it's attractive enough. Expect no shortage of stylistic variations and special editions of these models in the next few years. Both Honda and Jeep are targeting families, with roomy, three-row designs that are fitting for weekend softball games and long road trips. The Pilot steps it up in terms of interior flexibility, with a top Elite version offering second-row captain's chairs and a third row with two different seating setups—one with a three-person bench, and one with two captain's chairs. With the second row set up either as a three-person bench or two captains' chairs, the second row slides 5.5 inches and both the curbside and the driver's side second-row chairs tilt and slide forward for easy access to the third row. The Grand Cherokee L, by comparison, offers a three-person bench second row or two captains' chairs, and it has only fore-aft adjustment. Both models have easy entry to the third row, but the vehicle with the most easy third-row access isn't clear as the dimensions aren't far off with each other, and the Pilot has a one-touch walk-in feature for third-row access.
2.1 Styling and Aesthetics
The front end gave me some new Honda Ridgeline vibes with the wide-set headlights and grille. The LED headlights are slimmer and sleeker than the Ridgeline's, and the grille gets more interesting as it progresses from the bottom to the top. Higher-trim Pilots will get LED fog lights and the lower chrome trim is upgraded to a more stylized piece. Around the back, the taillights are in the same spot as before, but now they stretch across the tail and into the tailgate. I'm really feeling the upward kink in the lower window line. It's an interesting visual design cue. The overall shape of the car is more of a squared-off, traditional SUV shape compared to the slightly rounded-looking old Pilot. The black on the D-pillar might be trying a bit too hard to look like a window or a break from the body (it reminds of Ford's old Flex), but I guess it's fine. The new metallic accents on the bumpers don't look too bad, but the dual exhaust is very obviously fake and somewhat cheesy. Honda's 20-inch black wheels look good with the white paint. Overall, it's not going to offend anyone and it's not too bland. It's a natural progression from Honda's current design language, if a bit safe. (Doherty, 2023)
2.2 Size and Dimensions
Due to the large size of the Honda Pilot, it is considered to be a full-sized SUV. This increased size also translates to an increase in weight. The 2WD models weigh in at 4296 pounds, and the AWD model Pilots weigh anywhere from 4295 to 4319 pounds. The new 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, on the other hand, weighs considerably less than the Honda. Due to its decreased size and still being on the same platform as the regular Grand Cherokees, the weight is more in line with competitors of similar full and midsize SUVs. The 2WD Laredo model sits at 4812 pounds, and the 4X4 model weighs 4958 pounds. The weight gradually increases as the trim levels go up, with the Overland 4X4 and Summit 4X4 weighing 4963 pounds and the top-of-the-line Summit Reserve 4X4 weighing 4985 pounds.
The Honda Pilot has been noted to be a large vehicle that is longer, wider, and taller than its competitors. The 2023 Pilot is no exception. In fact, the 2023 Honda Pilot has actually grown slightly compared to the previous generation. The 2023 Pilot is 70.5 inches tall compared to the previous generation's 69.7 inches. The 2023 Pilot also sits at 197.5 inches long compared to the previous generation's 196.5 inches. The width has remained consistent at 78.6 inches, and the wheelbase has grown to 123.6 inches compared to 111.0 inches of the previous generation. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, has decreased in size. It's at 193.0 inches long, 68.9 inches tall, 77.9 inches wide, and has a wheelbase of 116.7 inches. This is about the same size as a regular Cherokee, and the size is more conducive to day-to-day driving and maneuvering. Due to its previous size, the Cherokee was considered large for a mid-sized SUV. The new size dimensions help bring it in line with the rest of the competition.
2.3 Exterior Features
Exterior feature wise, the Honda Pilot features conventional crossover styling, with a typical closed cabin look and a full body. It's definitely got more of a family-focused look to it, compared to the rugged and off-road themed Grand Cherokee L. The Pilot has a standard length roof at the back of the vehicle and the higher-spec models have sunroofs included. A notable disadvantage feature-wise is the Honda Sensing safety suite as it is not included in any of the trims for the Pilot, so it's off to a bit of a bad start to the Jeep in this case. A standard safety feature on the top two trims is the blind spot information system feature, however its reliability on the chances of safety is not yet determined. In cadence with the old-fashioned family looks of it, the Pilot has a conventional tailgate that is top-hinged and does not come with a powered option. This is a stark contrast to the Grand Cherokee L, as it has the latest trend of split tailgate rear door and includes power function.
3. Performance and Powertrain
As for fuel efficiency, the Pilot surpasses the Grand Cherokee L no matter the engine options. The Pilot 2WD in LX, EX-L variants has an EPA rating of 20/27/23 mpg (city/highway/combined), and the AWD option drops fuel efficiency a mere 1 mpg. The Grand Cherokee L V6 RWD has an EPA rating of 19/26/21 mpg, so the Pilot still beats the Grand Cherokee L by 2 mpg in combined fuel efficiency. On the other hand, the V8 4x2 Grand Cherokee equipped with eTorque has an EPA rating of 14/22/17 mpg, a rate at which the Pilot can easily exceed.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L, unlike the Honda, replaces the older 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar engine with a new 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque generating 293 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. Additionally, it makes available an optional 5.7-liter V8 with eTorque, rated at 357 horsepower at 5150 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 4350 rpm, available in the Overland and Summit trims. Both engines are mated to a new TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission, and the V6 is available in RWD or 4WD variants, whereas the V8 comes with 4WD only.
Starting with the new Honda Pilot 2023, it has been completely redesigned and the trusted 3.5-liter V6 engine is replaced with a smaller 3.0-liter V6 engine with i-VTEC + VCM mated to a 6-speed automatic. The downsized powerplant is rated at 250 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 253 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. While the new engine provides the same acceleration and smoothness of the older 3.5-liter V6, the new engine is aimed at improving fuel efficiency. The Pilot will be available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions, and the all-wheel drive models come with the new intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4). This all-new AWD system is designed to provide intelligent and optimum torque transfer between front and rear wheels over a wide variety of surface conditions.
3.1 Engine Options and Performance
The Pilot features the previous model year's engine and adds a nine-speed automatic transmission and an updated i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system with a torque vectoring function. Its 3.5-liter V-6 makes the same 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque as before, and Honda didn't provide estimated curb weights. The new Pilot powertrain is acceptable for moving this family conveyance around, but it does so in rather noisy and uninspired fashion. This is partly because the newest Pilot bodies are heavier than the previous generation, so we'll see if this setup feels more lively in the Passport, which is a nameplate that is supposed to represent the off-road-oriented version of the Pilot. The Jeep is available with several engine options. The base motor is a 290-hp 3.6-liter V-6 with rear- or all-wheel drive. Next up is a 357-hp 5.7-liter V-8 with rear- or all-wheel drive, and rounding out the lineup is a 375-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V-6 with standard all-wheel drive. Later down the line, a plug-in hybrid with a claimed 25-mile EV range will be offered. No matter what engine is chosen, it will be paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The Honda's top Elite trim is priced similarly to the Grand Cherokee L Overland, and the two are close in weight, but that's where the similarities end. While the lower-trimmed Pilot trims will undoubtedly be cross-shopped with the Jeep, the top Elite and Black Edition models feature a standard level of cabin materials, comfort, and convenience features that compete more with luxury brands. This is especially true of the loaded Black Edition, which has a level of interior refinement that's rare for a Honda. Overall, the Jeep's powertrain lineup is impressive, but nothing is particularly outstanding in terms of power, acceleration, fuel efficiency, or towing capability given the types of engines offered and the price of entry on the higher trims. At the same time, these characteristics are in line with what offerings are in the segments that the Grand Cherokee will compete in, and the diesel and PHEV options are certainly unique selling points in the space. Having said that, the adequate yet unremarkable 3.6-liter V-6 and 5.7-liter V-8 are unlikely to win any new fans over, and the fact that the two top-tier engine options require another premium at the higher trims make them a tough sell.
3.2 Fuel Efficiency
Meanwhile, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 24-valve VVT Engine with ESS, provides much lower fuel efficiency than the Honda Pilot. This engine, the only one currently available in the Jeep, is a fairly typical V6 which runs on all six cylinders at all times and makes use of on/off technology. This technology shuts the engine off when idling and then restarts it when the driver takes their foot off the brake. This technology is not as effective as Honda's VCM system, and the engine itself lacks enough power to move this large and heavy vehicle with any form of adequacy, especially when 4WD variants can weigh in excess of 5000 pounds. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L 3.6L engine is rated at 19/26 mpg, 21 combined with 2WD and a diminished 18/25 mpg, 20 combined for 4WD models. While it's commendable that the Jeep's V6 does exceed typical fuel efficiency for an almost entirely on engine, it's still much less efficient than the Pilot, and it won't be sufficient to power the sizable Jeep. The Jeep V6 is also mated solely to a Pentastar Automatic Transmission, which lacks durability and still cannot compare to Honda's efficiency. Given that the Pilot will have superior fuel efficiency and more power with its only marginally less efficient V6, as well as an attempted hybrid model in the future, Honda has a clear advantage over the FCA vehicles in this category.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2023 Honda Pilot holds the edge over the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. The V6 engine in the Pilot (normal 2-wheel drive or four-wheel drive) utilizes Honda's Variable Cylinder Management system. It can run on three, four, or six cylinders depending on the driving conditions. This saves fuel and is superior to the typically on or off system in a V8. The VCM system is completely seamless, meaning that the driver will not feel it. Honda has not yet released fuel efficiency details for the Pilot, but has stated that it should be top in class among eight-seat competitors. The 2007 Honda Pilot should not be much heavier than its predecessor given the increased size, so I would speculate that highway mileage would be in the high twenties, and around 18-20 mpg for mostly city driving. These numbers would far outperform the V8 competition and even surpass the four-cylinder Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander. (Update: mpg estimates are up to 20/27 mpg city/hwy, 23 combined for 2WD models and 19/26 mpg city/hwy, 22 combined for AWD models). The V6 AWD Passport has now published fuel estimates which are somewhat lower than those of the Pilot, yet they are still quite impressive for a medium-sized two-row SUV, at up to 20/25 mpg city/hwy, 22 combined for 2WD models and 19/24 mpg, 21 combined for the heavier AWD variants. The Pilot is only available with an automatic transmission, which does help in attaining better fuel efficiency nowadays.
3.3 Towing Capacity
In terms of capacity, the Honda Pilot comes with a slight edge, boasting 5000 lbs. of towing capacity across the entire model lineup regardless of if it is equipped with all-wheel drive or two-wheel drive. The new Jeep Grand Cherokee L comes standard with Quadra-Trac I across the lineup allowing for 6200 lbs. of towing capacity while the vehicles equipped with the off-road group will offer maximum towing capacity of 7200 lbs. This is still less than the Pilot, but as the other Jeep models offer 7000 lbs of towing capacity this enhancement in towing capacity may close the gap for some consumers. The slight difference, however, is relatively negligible when it comes to the actual weight of the camper or trailer needing to be hauled. Now, a lot of people want to know the towing capacity for a vehicle to tow a camper, as it is a common recreational activity. According to the RV Industry Association, the average travel trailer has a 50/50 weight split between dry weight and cargo weight. With the 5000 lbs offered by the Pilot, this will allow you to haul an average owner weight of 1800 lbs and a 4100 lbs camper. With the Grand Cherokee L, this would allow you to haul an 1800 lbs owner weight and a 4400 lbs travel trailer, with a 6200 lbs travel trailer being the max. Step up from the camper? Boat owners can rejoice as the slight gap in towing capacity could easily be overcome by the weight of the boat and trailer combo, allowing for one less decision in terms of the next vehicle purchase.
3.4 Off-Road Capabilities
In conclusion, drivers looking for a mid-sized SUV that does occasional light off-roading will find the standard models of the 2023 Honda Pilot and all-new 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee to be capable candidates. With a more rugged variant rumored for the next generation Pilot, Honda looks to take the Pilot a step further in providing off-road capabilities. The next generation Jeep Grand Cherokee will likely continue to lead the mid-sized SUV segment in terms of off-road abilities. This will be advantageous for customers who desire a wider spectrum of off-road capabilities or those Jeep loyalists who want a Grand Cherokee equipped for the most serious off-road terrain.
On the other hand, the all-new 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee should provide superior off-road capabilities in comparison to the Honda Pilot. With a rear-wheel-drive architecture and two 4x4 systems available, the fifth-generation Grand Cherokee has an available Quadra-Trac I, single-speed active transfer case or Quadra-Trac II and rear ELSD, both 2-speed active transfer cases. This is supported by a lineup of three advanced, intelligent 4x4 systems, each of which can send more power to the wheels with the most traction, including the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system and an optimized four-wheel independent suspension. The standard 2023 Grand Cherokee will come with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with engine stop-start and an 8-speed automatic transmission. A 2.0L plug-in hybrid Global Rated engine and an available 5.7L V8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology will also be optional. With the various powertrain combinations and advanced 4x4 systems, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee will provide a much wider spectrum of off-road capabilities than the Honda Pilot and be more suitable for someone doing serious off-roading or desiring a more luxurious mid-sized SUV with the occasional need for 4x4 traction.
Starting off with the Pilot, the 2023 Honda Pilot will receive a light update, with rumors suggesting it'll be the final model year of the current fourth-generation vehicle. The fifth generation of the Pilot is expected to debut in 2022 for the 2023 model year. With the new generation, we can expect the Pilot to get a more rugged variant, possibly a Passport Adventure look-alike, making it more capable off-road. As for the standard 2023 Pilot, we can expect the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive 2023 Pilot to carry over the same 3.5L V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission available in the 2019-2022 Pilots. The 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque power plant provides the Pilot with decent acceleration and passing power. The all-wheel-drive models will get the Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system with Intelligent Traction Management providing different modes for different off-road conditions. Although the torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system is not designed for serious off-roading, it does work well in providing additional all-weather traction.
4. Interior and Technology
Simulation of Navigation and Infotainment Like the 2022 Pilot, the 2023 Pilot is equipped with an integrated snow mode function. With the 2022 Pilot, the snow mode setting was made with the push of a button. For the 2023 Pilot, the snow mode setting is actuated by the push of a button and selection of the D/S button for either D/S1 or D/S2. Prices listed in the paragraph are for the Pilot 2WD models. In snow mode, torque transfer to rear wheels is increased, and VSA is modified to allow more wheel spin to help get the vehicle out of a snowbound situation.
Interior Quality Both vehicles use a modern and sophisticated but clean, simple, and easy-to-use dashboard and controls. The Grand Cherokee L has marginally better materials inside and is available with luxury features like an available digital gauge cluster, a head-up display, and massage front seats. Honda has added some new soft-touch interior materials to the Pilot, but it still has a wider mix of materials and textures that could potentially be off-putting to some buyers. Step up trims in the Pilot and the Grand Cherokee L, and more luxury features become available, such as a panoramic roof and a premium audio system.
Cabin Space and Seating The Pilot has the roomiest, most family-friendly cabin in the segment, with plenty of space in all three rows, comfortable seating, and a third row that's big enough for adults. The Grand Cherokee L has a spacious cabin and comfortable, supportive first and second-row seats, but third-row passengers and anyone who may be trying to access a car seat or cargo on the floor will find it a slightly tricky fit. The L's third-row seats are raised from the floor, and currently, there's an annoying need to use a lever to slide second-row seats forward for access to the third row (power operation is available with other seat functions).
4.1 Cabin Space and Seating
The pilot's most significant advantage in this area is its third row. Even in its two-row configuration, with the third row omitted, the pilot outpoints the Grand Cherokee L. The third-row accommodations are not especially generous in terms of legroom or headroom, and the seats are set rather low to the floor. The Grand Cherokee L's wheelbase is barely longer than the regular two-row Grand Cherokee, and its overall length is about halfway between the regular and extended-length versions of the pilot. The Jeeps have a bit more space in the second row, and at least in the short term they should be a bit less cluttered with the third row unoccupied; the pilot has a second-row bench on all trims, while the Grand Cherokee L offers a no-cost three-across bench or two optional buckets. Step-in height is moderately higher in the Jeeps, and the seats in both rows are more deeply padded, resulting in a more SUV-like stance. The locations of front sunroofs and panoramic roofs are not yet confirmed, but both vehicles should have one available, and Honda's version is unusually large for the class. Both vehicles offer numerous amenities for all three rows, including USB ports and separate climate controls, and good visibility all around. Fabric upholstery is standard all the way up to the third-row Touring trim of the pilot, where both cars switch to synthetic leather. Honda offers real leather only in the Elite model, Grand Cherokee L buyers can choose between leather and vinyl depending on model and option package. Headlining material and trim quality are good in both vehicles, with gradual improvements as you ascend the trim levels. The smaller the pilot's cargo hold and its increased number of passengers compared to the Grand Cherokee L will likely be the pilot's weakest point in terms of cabin space.
4.2 Infotainment and Connectivity
The Pilot comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of safety and driver assistance technologies. This system includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System. HondaLink and the Touring trim or higher include an available Mobile Hotspot and remote unlocking with the cabin control feature. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L comes standard with an Integrated Voice Command with Bluetooth system and an available SiriusXM Guardian system with Uconnect support. Certain navigation and safety features can be controlled through SiriusXM Guardian, but it is not as comprehensive a system as HondaLink. The Grand Cherokee L can potentially better connectivity and convenience with an integrated Amazon Alexa system. This is an appealing feature with a smart home device or Alexa-compatible products as they can be used to interact with the vehicle and take advantage of the voice command system. Overall, both vehicles offer powerful integration of mobile devices and applications to enhance the driving and ride experience.
Honda offers the CabinControl system allowing passengers to personalize their entertainment experience and climate control with the HondaLink app on their smartphone. The passengers can download the app and use their smartphone to control certain features in the Pilot. The Elite and Black Edition trims include a convenient Blu-ray Rear Entertainment System featuring a 10.2-inch display, a built-in streaming video app, and an HDMI input. Personal audio options, in-car PA and PA vehicle grid, or the rear entertainment system can be collectively controlled through the CabinTalk feature using the Pilot's audio system, wireless headphones, and the Pilot's speakers. These features are ideal for keeping the kids entertained on car rides, but the elder passengers may not have as much use for them. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L does not have a comparable rear entertainment system, but passengers can enjoy streaming video on the Uconnect store app using compatible smartphones or compatible tablets. This may be the preferable option for some passengers given the rise in mobile device usage.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Honda Pilot provide a wide variety of technology features. The Pilot comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a 215-watt, 7-speaker audio system. Touring trims and above include a larger 8-inch Display Audio system and a 590-watt, 10-speaker premium audio system. The top of the line Elite trim includes a wireless phone charging system. The Grand Cherokee L comes standard with a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a 6-speaker audio system. Latitude and Altitude trims are set up with an 8.4-inch touchscreen system and a 6-speaker audio system. Limited and Overland trims include the larger 10.1-inch touchscreen and a 6-speaker audio system. The Summit Reserve comes standard with a 7-speaker Alpine audio system or the option for a 19-speaker premium sound system. If you're a music enthusiast, you'll likely prefer the Grand Cherokee L's premium audio options. Both vehicles come equipped with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot capabilities and SiriusXM radio, but the Grand Cherokee L has an available wireless service which makes staying connected more convenient than ever.
4.3 Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Lastly, Honda offers an Adaptive Cruise Control system that can detect a vehicle in the lane ahead and adjust the cruise speed to match when following behind. This is an additional feature of defense for collision prevention.
The real differentiator in safety performance lies within the Collision Mitigation System and Road Departure Mitigation System that Honda offers. Both systems use small cameras at the top of the windshield to detect whether the car is about to hit a vehicle in front of it or drifting from a detected lane without the turn indicator on. If detected, braking and/or steering assistance may be deployed to avoid the collision or the lane drift. The Road Departure Mitigation System goes further in detecting if the car is about to depart from the road and takes actions to use steering and braking to keep the vehicle on the road. These systems are unique to Honda and have been proven to be very effective in collision prevention.
The 2023 Honda Pilot houses a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission with the option of having all-wheel drive for improved traction during heavy acceleration or slippery terrains. Multiple drive modes allow you to choose the best possible traction options and the G-force control system knows which is a steep hill in order to adjust gears accordingly. These are all features that help protect against collisions because the vehicle is more prepared to avoid a potential out-of-control scenario or regain control when hitting a patch of ice. In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers similar functionality with Quadra-Trac, which uses a 2-speed transfer case for torque management, but still deploys it in a manner frame on frame as AWD, which is not as effective.
In trying to keep people safer, automobile manufacturers have come out with many safety features over the years that have been proven to decrease collisions and increase the protection of passengers. They have taken matters too far with the advance of self-driving automobiles with complicated PC structures that take complete control over all characteristics of driving. Honda promotes its Honda Sensing Protection Suite saying it "is a sophisticated safety technology designed to keep you and your family safe in your travels" (Honda). Jeep has a similar suite that it uses in the Grand Cherokee. Each vehicle houses multiple airbags that protect passengers in the event of a collision, antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control, then things begin to differ.
References:
Sok, R. & Kusaka, J., 2023. Experimental and modeling analysis on thermoelectric heat recovery to maximize the performance of next-generation diesel engines dedicated for future electrified …. Applied Thermal Engineering. researchgate.net
Doherty, F. A., 2023. Only The Light Moves: Flying Covert Reconnaissance Missions in the Vietnam War. [HTML]