Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs Hyundai Ioniq 9

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained the classic appeal of its predecessors while introducing modern elements. Its design, characterized by a lifted square box with a seven-slot grille, exuded toughness and luxury. The L version extended the Grand Cherokee by over 30 centimetres, preserving its iconic style. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured blacked-out accents and dark gray 21-inch wheels, creating a bold appearance. Inside, the upper trims impressed with a mix of materials, including black leather with gold stitching and matte-finish walnut. While not every component matched Mercedes-grade quality, the overall interior felt justified for its price range. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was notably more luxurious than many competitors, offering a classy experience for those willing to invest.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 presented a distinctive design that divided opinions. Its aerodynamic shape, inspired by smooth pebbles and midcentury modern sofas, aimed to house seven passengers comfortably. Measuring 5,060 millimetres in length with a 3,130 mm wheelbase, it offered impressive interior volume. Despite its size, the Ioniq 9 achieved a 0.27 drag coefficient, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. However, its design, with a swooping roofline and stubby rear end, was not universally praised. The rear view, featuring LED taillights wrapping around the tail's circumference, was the most recognizable angle. The Ioniq 9 came in various paint colours, with trim-specific options, and offered unique wheel designs. Inside, it boasted a spacious and airy interior, with flat floors and a sliding centre console. While the interior featured high-quality plastic, some elements, like the dashboard insert, felt underwhelming.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's performance was hindered by its standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine, shared with Dodge and Chrysler, was considered outdated and lacked low-end torque. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine, with 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, was recommended for better towing capacity and a more satisfying driving experience. The V8 allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 3,265 kilograms, compared to 2,810 kg with the V6. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 13.0 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8's ratings were worse at 16.7 L/100 km city, 10.9 hwy, 14.1 combined. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, with air suspension enhancing cornering stability. The steering, however, required more precision. Four-wheel drive was standard in Canada, with three different systems available, each offering varying levels of off-road capability.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured a 110.3-kWh battery pack on Hyundai's e-GMP platform. The base Essential trim had a rear-wheel-drive setup with a 160-kW electric motor, delivering 215 horsepower. Other trims offered dual-motor all-wheel-drive systems, with power outputs ranging from 303 to 422 horsepower. The Ioniq 9 impressed with its energy efficiency, often exceeding the estimated 500-kilometre range. Its chassis, though softly sprung, provided a smooth ride, but its weight and suspension made it less agile in corners. The Ioniq 9 excelled in noise reduction, with active noise cancellation and sound-absorbing features. Towing capacity was 1,587 kilograms for the RWD Essential and 2,268 kilograms for AWD models. Charging options included Tesla-style NACS superchargers and CCS-port Level 3 chargers, with charging times varying based on the charger type.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided more legroom for second-row passengers, creating a spacious interior. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a centre console available on higher trims. The third row, while power-folding, was tight for adults and best suited for children. A power liftgate and dual-pane panoramic sunroof were added on higher trims. The driver's seat offered good visibility, but the infotainment system's graphics and text had legibility issues. Cargo space was generous, with 481 litres behind the third row, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-SUV practicality, seating seven with a middle-row bench seat. The Preferred AWD+ with the Ultimate Calligraphy Package offered ventilated captain's chairs and a sliding centre console. Middle-row legroom was excellent at 1,086 millimetres, while the third row felt tight at 813 mm. The Ioniq 9's rear doors provided easy access, and dual-zone climate control was standard. Heated front seats were standard, with heated second-row seats available in higher trims. The driver's seat had limited adjustability, and the glove compartment's low placement was inconvenient. Cargo space was ample, with 620 litres behind the third row, 1,323 litres with the third row folded, and 2,462 litres with both rows folded.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims, running Uconnect 5. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The McIntosh sound system, while good, lacked surround imaging. Night vision and Active Driving Assist were available on higher trims. The passenger screen, active only when a passenger was seated, offered entertainment and navigation control.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 had dual curved 12.3-inch displays, offering a familiar infotainment interface. SiriusXM Satellite Radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay were standard. The wireless charging pad struggled to keep up with phone demands. Six USB-C ports provided ample charging options. The 14-speaker Bose audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS for models built after May 2023 and scored five stars in NHTSA tests, except for rollover. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and 360-degree cameras.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS. It offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including collision avoidance, lane-guidance, and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Preferred AWD's Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ trims included a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor.