2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Jeep Wrangler

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party's fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, boasting a stylish four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in its rear design. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its well-proportioned and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage embraced a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The interior was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system, exuding an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous aesthetic. Buyers had to choose between the classic two-door or the more practical four-door body style, with various engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline-powered V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler's design was all about customization, with four core trim levels—Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon—and numerous special editions. The High Tide model, based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield upgrade. The Wrangler's design was unapologetically rugged, with a focus on off-road capability and a unique driving experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a choice of two engines. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, boasted a more robust 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it a compelling option for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all grades except the entry-level LX FWD. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, offering a spirited driving experience. The suspension setup, featuring MacPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link rear suspension, provided a smooth and compliant ride, though some body roll and lateral rocking were noticeable.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, on the other hand, was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system made it suitable for challenging weather conditions. Fuel consumption was a concern, with the Wrangler averaging 14.0 L/100 km over a week of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, characterized by its loud cabin, vague steering, and touchy brakes. Despite these quirks, the Wrangler offered an immersive and adventurous driving experience, perfect for off-road enthusiasts seeking a sense of freedom and exploration.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though on the smaller side of the compact crossover SUV scale, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided comfort with perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. However, the Sportage fell short in cargo space, with 1,703 litres of maximum cargo volume and 868 litres behind the back seat. The smart liftgate technology added convenience, allowing hands-free access to the cargo area.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler posed challenges in terms of entry and exit, especially with a raised suspension. 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 requiring adjustments. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but found comfortable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was ample, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. The Wrangler's design prioritized off-road capability and ruggedness over interior refinement.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, it lacked some modern features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system offered upgrades like satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system. Despite the smaller screen, the Wrangler's tech options 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 Sportage, in its EX and SX grades, offered safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim also included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offered features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional rather than standard, requiring extra care when driving.