2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body style. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was standard across the range. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Willys Sport. The High Tide model, based on the four-door Sport S trim, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield upgrade. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler's interior was basic, with a focus on durability over luxury.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, particularly in the X-Line and X-Pro models, showcased fresh front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension, unique grille design, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro added exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Telluride boasted a new digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Interior changes included new colours, minor trim updates, and a redesigned steering wheel. The Telluride offered a spacious and comfortable cabin with premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain’s chairs. The SUV's cargo space was generous, with a smart power tailgate and an automatic closing function.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, the Wrangler was designed for rugged terrains. However, it consumed 13.4 L/100 km on the evaluation route and averaged 14.0 L/100 km over 700 kilometres of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and sensory-rich journey, albeit with a rough ride, loud cabin, and frequent fuel stops.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride X-Line averaged 9.8 L/100 km, while the X-Pro returned 11.5 L/100 km, including off-roading. Kia enhanced the Telluride's off-road capabilities with a raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and a new Downhill Brake Control system. On highways, the Telluride provided a smooth and quiet ride, with some wind noise at higher speeds.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's interior was utilitarian, with comfortable seats and durable cloth upholstery. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some acclimation. Visibility varied, with challenges at intersections and rear views obstructed by the spare tire. Rear-seat passengers faced entry and exit difficulties, but once inside, they found agreeable accommodations. Cargo space was ample, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a spacious interior, accommodating seven or eight passengers depending on the configuration. The test vehicles featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain’s chairs. The second row was comfortable, with manual side-window sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seat was more comfortable than many competitors, though not as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas. Cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, 1,304 litres with the third row folded, and 2,455 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's infotainment system was basic, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a navigation system. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The system supported over-the-air updates and Bluetooth pairing for two devices. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. New digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror were available. The optional head-up display offered a larger viewing area with additional information.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were subpar, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Kia Telluride boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and lane-keeping assist. The Telluride also offered adaptive cruise control, Highway Drive Assist, and a Rear Occupant Alert system. The IIHS rated the Telluride as a Top Safety Pick+, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable.