Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer exuded a classic SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. This resulted in a traditional design featuring a tall hood, broad shoulders, trapezoidal wheel arches, and an upright profile. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof and unique hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, adorned with laser-etched knurling, while the wheel centre caps were protected by acrylic glass. The vehicle's body-on-frame architecture allowed for independent suspension, and the use of aluminum and composite materials helped reduce weight.

Inside, the Grand Wagoneer shared styling cues with the Wagoneer, such as an integrated infotainment touchscreen and a two-spoke steering wheel. However, it offered more luxurious features, including 24-way power front seats with memory and massage functions, standard heated seats, and optional ventilated second-row seats. Nappa leather upholstery was standard, with higher-grade Palermo leather available. The interior also featured aluminum and American Walnut wood trim, with seat controls positioned high on the doors, reminiscent of Mercedes. The dashboard prominently displayed the "Grand Wagoneer" name, ensuring occupants never forgot the vehicle they were in.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, available in Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, integrated seamlessly into the existing Palisade lineup. The base Luxury trim came with 20-inch alloy wheels and a massive grille framed by LED projector headlights and five large LED daytime running lights. The profile featured body-colour, heated side mirrors with power-folding capabilities, and acoustic side glass on all windows. The rear showcased wide-spaced letters spelling the vehicle's name, with stacks of LED taillights wrapping around the corners, hinting at a focus on efficient driving.

Inside, the Palisade Hybrid impressed with its thoughtful design and craftsmanship. The base trims offered H-Tex synthetic leatherette upholstery, eight-way power adjustment for the driver's seat, and three-stage heating elements. Higher trims added features like seat ventilation and Nappa leather upholstery. The interior design was characterized by organic shapes and well-considered storage solutions, providing a richer feel compared to other non-luxury crossovers. The Palisade Hybrid's cabin was a testament to Hyundai's attention to detail and commitment to comfort.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine featured cylinder deactivation for improved fuel efficiency and was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Wagoneer could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately six seconds, despite its hefty 2,900-kilogram weight. Standard four-wheel drive, the Quadra-Drive II system, and the Quadra-Lift air suspension system enhanced its off-road capabilities, offering adjustable ride height and impressive ground clearance.

In contrast, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.65-kWh battery. The turbo-four engine produced 258 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a combined output of 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The advanced eight-speed automatic transmission and next-generation hybrid system optimized power distribution, resulting in a responsive and efficient driving experience. The Palisade Hybrid excelled in noise reduction, with acoustic glass and noise-absorbing carpet ensuring a quiet cabin. The steering was sharp, providing a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered seating for seven with standard second-row captain's chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It provided more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. However, front-row space was more limited. The Grand Wagoneer boasted 775 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 2,007 litres with the third row stowed. Its maximum towing capacity was 4,472 kilograms, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid offered 2,455 litres of total cargo capacity, trailing some competitors but surpassing others like the Ford Explorer and Mazda CX-90. The battery's position under the front passenger seat slightly reduced second-row legroom, but the Palisade still provided ample space. The third row offered 815 millimetres of legroom, trailing some rivals. The Palisade Hybrid featured dual-zone climate control, seven USB-C power outlets, and a second-row bench seat with optional captain's chairs. The cabin was designed for comfort, with numerous storage solutions and thoughtful details.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a McIntosh audio system. Second-row passengers had access to a 10.25-inch touchscreen, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered over-the-air updates, although the screen response was occasionally slow.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It supported HD and Sirius XM satellite radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. A 14-speaker Bose stereo was available on higher trims, along with a built-in dashcam on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The Palisade introduced "Stay Mode," allowing the climate control and infotainment system to run while the engine was off, provided the hybrid battery had sufficient charge.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer included standard safety features like a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included intersection collision assist, driver-attention monitor, and night vision. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring, with a hands-free version planned for future release.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic assist, and automatic emergency braking. The blind-view monitor was standard on higher trims, and the rear doors featured a safe-exit alert indicator. The Palisade's ADAS tech performed flawlessly during testing, providing confidence on the road.