2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 marked a significant departure from its predecessor, the original Ioniq, by establishing itself as a standalone brand dedicated to electric vehicles. This new model embraced a futuristic design with its Parametric Pixel theme, reminiscent of retro video games, which was evident in its extensive use of LED lighting. The exterior design was a blend of minimalistic lines and intricate details, creating a concept car-like appearance. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" environment with sustainable materials and a focus on comfort, featuring a Relaxation mode for the driver's seat and a spacious, airy cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler maintained its rugged, iconic design, offering both two-door and four-door body styles. It provided a range of engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler's design was all about off-road capability, with features like removable doors and roof, and a high ground clearance. The interior was utilitarian, with durable materials and a focus on functionality rather than luxury. The Wrangler's design was a nod to its adventurous spirit, making it a favourite among off-road enthusiasts.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains, with the base model featuring a 125-kW rear-mounted electric motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 354 kilometres. The Preferred long-range variant boasted a 168-kW motor with 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering a range of 488 kilometres. The AWD version, with a dual-motor system, delivered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range dropped to 414 km. The Ioniq 5's performance was characterized by its smooth handling and four drive modes, including a Sport mode for added excitement. The vehicle's regenerative braking system, adjustable via paddle shifters, added an element of gamification to the driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid system, produced 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, ideal for challenging weather conditions. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was higher, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing. The driving experience was unique, with a focus on off-road capability and a raw, immersive feel. The Wrangler's handling was less refined, with a noisy cabin and a ride that required constant steering corrections, but it offered a sense of adventure and freedom that appealed to its dedicated fan base.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offered a spacious interior with a longer wheelbase than the seven-passenger Palisade. It provided 3,786 litres of interior volume, prioritizing passenger comfort over cargo space. The interior featured a flat floor, a moveable centre console, and comfortable leatherette seats. The design emphasized usability and comfort, with soft touchpoints and a modern take on a retro front bench seat.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, with its rugged design, posed challenges for entry and exit, especially with a raised suspension. The interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views while others were compromised. The Wrangler provided 898 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expandable to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded. Storage options were limited, but the Wrangler's design focused on functionality and off-road capability.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced technology, featuring a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes, and offered a range of multimedia features, including a redesigned Blue Link app, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for improved visibility.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, offered basic infotainment technology with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system provided upgrades like satellite radio and a premium audio system. The Wrangler included features like remote engine starting, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, enhancing the open-air driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. It also offered Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. The Ioniq 5 was expected to earn high safety ratings, though official ratings were not yet available.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's safety ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. The Wrangler's safety features were optional, and its design required extra care when driving.