2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic rugged appearance, characterized by a burly, body-on-frame design. Despite the variety of powertrains and off-road systems available, the Wrangler's aesthetic remained consistent across models. Notable changes included a redesigned grille, initially seen on the 2023 20th Anniversary edition, which was shorter and wider to enhance engine airflow. The integration of the antenna into the windshield was a thoughtful upgrade, preventing it from snagging on branches during off-road adventures. Additionally, the Wrangler offered ten new wheel designs and various roof options, including soft-top, hard-top, and power-retractable sunroof configurations. The ability to fold down the windshield and remove the doors added to its adventurous appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, available in XRT, Luxury, and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, showcased a chunky, boxy design with a long wheelbase and flat hood. The pixelated H-shaped LED headlamps aligned with Hyundai's design language, while the rear design suffered from mismatched proportions. Each trim featured specific wheel sizes, with the XRT trim adding chrome and black accents for an off-road look. Inside, the Santa Fe offered seating for seven, except in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, which featured captain's chairs. The interior boasted leatherette, leather, or Nappa leather upholstery, depending on the trim. Despite some squeaks and rattles, the fit and finish were commendable, with physical HVAC dials and challenging fan speed buttons.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a robust 6.4-litre V8 engine delivering 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Various transfer cases provided different off-road capabilities, with the Rubicon trim featuring the Rock-Trac transfer case. Most models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed manual was available with the 3.6-litre engine. The 4xe PHEV Wrangler impressed with 35 kilometres of all-electric range and matched the 392 trim in torque. The Wrangler's solid axles ensured excellent off-road articulation, and the addition of a WARN winch on Rubicon models enhanced its trail capabilities.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a standard 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup. The Santa Fe Hybrid, a separate model, combined a 1.6-litre engine with an electric motor for 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Fe exhibited stability in corners, though turbo lag and occasional transmission delays were noted. The gear selector, located on a stalk, required some adjustment. The XRT trim offered 30-inch all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance, enhancing off-road geometry. While capable on graded dirt roads, the Santa Fe was not designed for rugged rock crawling.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, with select models now able to tow up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds), thanks to a full-float solid rear axle. Inside, the Wrangler offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with 12-way power-adjustable front seats available. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories. Despite the improvements, ventilated seats were not available.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in interior space, offering the most third-row legroom in its class. The second-row seats featured adjustable cushion angles, and both the second and third rows could be folded for increased cargo space. With all seats occupied, the Santa Fe provided 413 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,267 litres with the second row folded. The rear opening was widened to 127.5 cm, facilitating the loading of large items. The Santa Fe's towing capacity varied by trim, with the XRT capable of towing 2,040 kilograms (4,500 pounds).

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Uconnect5, with optional navigation. The system featured improved graphics and speed, particularly noticeable in the Off-Road Pages. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store up to five user profiles.

In the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster were standard, except in the base Preferred trim. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim offered wireless charging for two phones and a digital key feature. The Blind View Monitor and head-up display were available on higher trims. Bluelink app connectivity provided remote access to various vehicle functions, and over-the-air updates ensured the latest software.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags. Forward collision warning was standard on most models, while advanced driver aids were optional. The Wrangler had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for 2024, but previous ratings indicated room for improvement in crash protection.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance assist. Highway Drive Assist was available on higher trims. The NHTSA awarded the Santa Fe a four-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS rated it "Good" in most categories, with some areas marked as "Acceptable."