2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, presented a stylish and rugged appearance. This midsize SUV featured rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, and robust roof rails, enhancing its already attractive design. Our test vehicle, equipped with the X-Line package, was a U.S. specification model, offering a unique combination of features not available in Canada. In Canada, all Sorento models came with standard all-wheel drive, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with pricing ranging from $34,595 to $48,085 for the gas-only version and starting at $36,695 for the hybrid and $44,995 for the plug-in hybrid, excluding a $1,900 destination charge.

Inside, the Sorento exuded quality with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim, reflecting rock-solid construction. The attention to design detail was evident even in the most affordable LX+ model. The interior style and traditional cable-operated transmission shifter did not compromise practical storage space. Buyers of the Sorento likely felt they received excellent value, enjoying a sense of luxury and practicality with every drive.

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 range of engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline-powered V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive was standard, with multiple systems available depending on the trim level.

Our test vehicle was the new High Tide model, a U.S.-market special edition based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim. It featured LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, a Gorilla Glass windshield upgrade, and more. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a focus on practicality. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's charm lay in its ruggedness and off-road capabilities, appealing to those seeking adventure and a unique driving experience.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's standard engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. However, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, offered a more satisfying performance. This engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, allowed the Sorento to accelerate to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension provided a blend of compliance and composure, making it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD, the Wrangler was well-suited for slippery conditions. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and adventurous ride, but it required frequent stops at the gas station.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with Burgundy leather and heated and ventilated front seats. Second-row captain's chairs were standard from the EX trim, offering comfort and convenience for passengers. However, the third-row seat was cramped, making it more suitable for children. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but folding it down expanded the capacity to 1,274 litres, and folding the second row increased it to 2,139 litres. The Sorento's "smart" power tailgate added convenience when loading cargo.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a practical design, with limited storage options. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but enjoyed a good view once seated. Cargo space was 898 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. The Wrangler's tailgate and rear window design required careful handling when loading cargo.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch display with navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the graphics and colours might not appeal to everyone. A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system was reserved for the SX trim, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

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 premium audio system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during open-air driving.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, and a Blind View Monitor. Highway Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with some areas receiving five-star ratings.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, 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.