2021 Hyundai Kona vs 2022 Jeep Wrangler

The 2021 Hyundai Kona presented a unique and playful exterior design that appealed to younger buyers. Its front end was characterized by a busy arrangement of lighting features, including a grille flanked by lights, additional lights above, and fog lights on certain trims. This quirky styling leaned more towards fun than business. In contrast, the rear of the Kona was more subdued, adopting a standard crossover shape with a conventional lighting setup. Inside, the Kona maintained its playful attitude with neat seat patterns and standard cloth upholstery, with options for leather on higher trims. The interior was well-organized, featuring a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen and physical climate controls, offering a simple and intuitive layout that complemented the compact space.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, particularly in the High Tide special edition, was a vehicle that demanded attention with its rugged and adventurous design. The High Tide model, based on the Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, included features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Xtreme Recon package further enhanced its off-road capabilities with a suspension lift, beadlock-capable wheels, and large tires. Despite its high price tag, the Wrangler's interior remained basic, focusing on durability and practicality rather than luxury. The driving experience was unique, offering an immersive connection with the environment, though it came with compromises in comfort and refinement.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona offered two powertrain options. The base model featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. An optional turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivered 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. While neither engine was particularly powerful, they provided sufficient performance for city and highway driving. The Kona's handling was surprisingly confident, offering agility and engagement, with fuel economy ranging from 25 to 33 mpg depending on the configuration.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was included. Despite an EPA estimate of 21 mpg, the Wrangler averaged 16.8 mpg during testing, highlighting its thirst for fuel. The driving experience was characterized by its ruggedness, with loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a bumpy ride. However, these traits were part of the Wrangler's charm, offering a unique and adventurous driving experience that appealed to off-road enthusiasts.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona provided decent headroom and legroom for front-seat passengers, with a simple and accessible layout for controls and displays. The front seats were wide and well-padded but lacked support for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers had good headroom but limited legroom, and the large rear door openings facilitated child seat installation. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, though small-item storage was generous and well-placed.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide posed challenges for entry and exit due to its raised suspension, with the manual height adjuster for the driver's seat requiring frequent readjustment. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views and others being obstructed. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found comfortable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was accessible through a heavy tailgate, offering 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona came equipped with an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, six speakers, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional features included SiriusXM radio, navigation, wireless device charging, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a responsive interface and easy navigation.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While the larger Uconnect 8.4 system offered additional features like satellite radio and navigation, the basic setup met most needs. The Wrangler included options like remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system, with the Cold Weather Group adding heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and more. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.