2024 Hyundai Kona vs 2023 Jeep Wrangler

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, no-nonsense design with its fourth-generation JL model, characterized by its boxy shape and minimal curves. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. The iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders were standard across all models, while the tailgate swung out for easy cargo access. The interior was practical, featuring easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward design, though lacking in luxury features like ambient lighting or massaging seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Kona was designed with an electric vehicle aesthetic in mind, showcasing a grille reminiscent of the Ioniq 5 and a seamless horizon LED headlight. Despite its increased size, the Kona maintained a recognizable silhouette, with new design elements like the creased parametric surface on the doors and substantial black body cladding. The interior was updated with a driver-oriented centre stack and a new gear shift location, creating more space for storage. The cabin featured a curved display housing both driver-information and infotainment screens, with revised vents and controls for a modernized look.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was renowned for its off-road capabilities, offering a variety of engine options to suit different needs. The standard Pentastar V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder offered 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more torque, the 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 provided 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The high-performance Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower and torque, capable of accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered a 17.3-kWh battery pack for 35 kilometres of all-electric range. However, the 392 model's on-road performance was hindered by inadequate brakes and vague steering.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque for the Essential and Preferred trims. The N Line trims featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. The Kona's front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. Fuel economy varied depending on the drivetrain, with the N Line AWD consuming 9.7 L/100 km in the city. The Kona's intuitive steering and nimble handling were appreciated during test drives, though pickup was slightly slow even with the turbo engine.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available on select trims. The rear seat was tight, especially in the four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. The cargo space measured 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded, slightly less than its competitor, the Bronco. The Wrangler's top options included a removable hard top, a Sunrider soft top, and the Sky One-Touch power soft top, which provided quick open-air access. Charging points were plentiful, with USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, and a 115-volt outlet available.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona benefited from increased rear-seat legroom and headroom, with cargo capacity expanding to 723 litres with the rear seats up and 1,803 litres with them folded down. The cabin featured a handy shelf on the passenger's side of the dash and a wireless charging pad with a guardrail to keep phones in place. The Kona offered various seating materials, including cloth, leatherette, and a leather/suede combination, with ventilated front seats available on the N Line with the Ultimate package. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch touchscreen available. The system featured off-road pages with detailed information, as well as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. While the Wrangler included a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches, it lacked advanced tech features like a digital key or comprehensive over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display as standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available on most trims. The N Line with the Ultimate package required wired connections due to compatibility issues with the onboard navigation system. The Kona featured a six-speaker system, with a Bose stereo system available on the N Line's Ultimate package. Dual 12.3-inch displays provided a panoramic view, and Hyundai's Bluelink connected services and a digital key feature were standard across the lineup.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control as standard. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control were only standard on top trims or available 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.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including standard Safe Exit Warning, blind-spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. High-beam assist and adaptive cruise control were standard from the Preferred trim, with additional features like Surround View Monitor and blind-spot view monitor available on the N Line's Ultimate package. Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist suite provided smooth lane-keep assist and semi-autonomous driving capabilities.