2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sleek and sporty design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its short highback tail featured a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and the wheels were pushed to the far corners of the chassis, creating a dynamic and stable look. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The headlights, with their V-shaped pattern, mirrored the black trim on the bumper, which mimicked air intakes. The wedgy profile, with its angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler, contributed to its sharp appearance, while the matte silver paint added a smooth and silken finish.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler maintained its rugged, take-no-prisoners design with a boxy, brick-like appearance. Available in both two-door and four-door configurations, the Wrangler allowed for door removal, enhancing its off-road appeal. The windshield could fold down, and various top options provided open-air exploration. The iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and exterior hood latches were signature features. The tailgate swung out, and the rear glass lifted for easy cargo access. The Wrangler's design was simple and functional, with the new "Reign" purple paint adding a touch of flair. The "Earl" colour, a gray shade with aquamarine highlights, was also available for 2023.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered impressive performance with its GT-Line e-AWD model, featuring two electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. With a 77.4 kWh battery, the EV6 accelerated to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds and handled corners with agility. The top-power GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The EV6's dual-motor setup provided seamless torque distribution, enhancing its performance on various terrains. Regenerative braking offered multiple settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in the maximum I-Pedal setting. However, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of Kia's estimated range. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, but real-world charging times fell short of Kia's claims.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler excelled in off-road performance, with solid axles and optional differential lockers. It offered a range of engine options, including the Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 hp, and the powerful 6.4-litre V8 in the Rubicon 392 with 470 hp. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid provided an eco-friendly option with 35 kilometres of all-electric range. The 392 model delivered exhilarating performance, accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in roughly 4.5 seconds. However, its brakes and steering were less refined, requiring early braking and offering vague steering feedback. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by different transfer cases, with the Xtreme Recon package providing a crawl ratio of 58:1.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and air vents. However, its cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. Towing capacity was rated at 1,043 kilograms, and the onboard power generator added versatility.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler provided comfortable front seats, with heated options available in higher trims. The rear seat was tight, especially in the four-door models, and the small rear doors made access challenging. Storage for small items was limited, with a flat dash and tiny glove box and centre console. Cargo space was also limited, with 2,050 litres available with the rear seats folded. The Wrangler's top options allowed for open-air experiences, with the Sky One-Touch power soft top offering convenience. Charging points were plentiful, with USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick settings adjustments and connectivity options, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The instrument panel displayed live feeds of blind spots, and the 360-degree cameras provided clear views. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the highest trim featured a 14-speaker Meridian stereo. The remote parking assist system added convenience.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's Uconnect infotainment system, available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, initially appeared complex but was intuitive once familiar. It included off-road pages with detailed information and connectivity options like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler offered practical tech features, such as a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories, but lacked advanced features like a digital key.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety test results but offered impressive standard safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims added blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 360 cameras.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control as standard. Advanced safety features were available on higher trims or as part of an option package. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA.