2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a more conservative exterior design compared to some of Hyundai's other models, yet it remained an attractive SUV. Its styling was characterized by wide upper and lower grilles and thin LED headlights, which provided a distinctive look. The interior of the Santa Fe, particularly in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, featured a high-quality black leather finish, though it was somewhat dark and monotone. The Nappa leather seats were both comfortable and visually appealing, with heated and cooled front seats as standard. The second row also offered seat heaters, making it a versatile choice for varying weather conditions.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic burly, body-on-frame look, with new features like a redesigned grille and an integrated windshield antenna. The Wrangler offered a variety of roof options, including soft-top, hard top, and power-retractable sunroof configurations. Its rugged design allowed for removable doors and a fold-down windshield, catering to adventure enthusiasts. The Wrangler's interior was equipped with heated seats and a heated steering wheel, though ventilated seats were not available. The addition of 12-way power adjustable front seats provided convenience, even when fording water.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged engine, paired with an eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission, provided brisk acceleration and smooth handling. The Santa Fe's drive-mode selector allowed for customization with Comfort, Sport, Snow, and Smart modes. While the non-turbo version could tow up to 907 kilograms, the turbo variant increased towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower, a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 285 horsepower, and a 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by various transfer cases, including the Command-Trac and Rock-Trac systems. The 4xe PHEV Wrangler combined a turbo engine with electric motors, offering 35 kilometres of all-electric range. The Wrangler's solid axles provided excellent articulation for off-road adventures, while the addition of a WARN winch on Rubicon models increased its trail capabilities.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized spaciousness with its two-row configuration, offering 1,060 millimetres of rear-seat legroom and 1,032 litres of cargo space behind the second row. Folding down the second row expanded storage to 2,041 litres. The Santa Fe's interior featured an eight-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, and a hands-free smart liftgate. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included advanced features like Remote Smart Parking Assist and a head-up display. However, the wide centre console slightly compromised driver leg and hip space.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler's big news was its upgraded towing capacity, now rated at 2,268 kilograms for specific models. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power adjustable front seats. The 4xe model included a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories. Despite its rugged design, the Wrangler's ride quality on pavement remained bumpy due to its solid front axle, though sound deadening materials improved cabin quietness.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in technology, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in higher trims. The infotainment system offered extensive customization options, though voice recognition had mixed results. The Santa Fe's advanced driver assistance systems included forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist, contributing to its high safety ratings.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen running Uconnect5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's speed and user-friendly interface were notable improvements. The Wrangler also featured a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store multiple user profiles. However, many advanced driver aids were optional, and the Wrangler lacked lane-keeping assist and highway assist features.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with the Ultimate Calligraphy trim's projector-type headlights earning praise.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, with forward collision warning standard on most models. However, many advanced safety features were optional. The 2023 Wrangler received mixed safety ratings, with improvements expected for the 2024 model year due to the addition of side curtain airbags.