2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson presented a more conventional design compared to its futuristic successor. Its upright layout offered drivers a commanding view of the road, while the interior boasted a modern and attractive dash design. The tech features were seamlessly integrated into the overall aesthetic, ensuring that every button and dial was easy to locate. The Tucson's trim levels ranged from SE to Ultimate, each adding more features and luxury as you moved up the line. The base SE trim included essentials like 17-inch alloy wheels and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the top-tier Ultimate trim offered a panoramic sunroof and heated rear seats.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard Grand Cherokee, designed to accommodate a third row of seats. Its elegant design was unmistakably Jeep, with a modernized seven-slot grille and improved paint finish. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, and quilted Nappa leather. The vehicle's trim levels, from the base Laredo to the high-end Summit Reserve, all exuded a sense of sophistication. New exterior paint colors for 2022 added to its appeal, and the interior layout was both stylish and functional, offering ample space and comfort for passengers.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson came with two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 161 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque, and a more robust 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with the choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The base engine was considered underwhelming, especially at highway speeds, while the 2.4-liter engine provided a livelier experience around town. The Tucson offered a comfortable and refined ride, with a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds with the larger engine.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a 5.7-liter V8, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, but was found lacking in power for a vehicle of its size. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, providing a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a 4xe plug-in hybrid option, combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with electric motors for a total of 375 horsepower. The vehicle's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension providing adjustable ride heights for different driving conditions. The Grand Cherokee L's towing capacity reached up to 7,200 pounds with 4WD.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson offered 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 61.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. While this was slightly below average for the compact SUV segment, it provided adequate space for most needs. The Tucson's interior was comfortable, with supportive front seats and enough rear-seat space for adults on longer trips. The vehicle also featured numerous storage compartments for convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L excelled in interior space, accommodating passengers comfortably in all three rows. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was well-appointed, with options for second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat. However, the air vents were noted to be insufficient in directing airflow, requiring the fan to be kept on high.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate trim offered an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, with additional features like navigation and wireless device charging available on higher trims. The system was praised for its ease of use and logical menu layouts.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a wealth of technology, especially on upper trims. Features included massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and an Active Driving Assist system. The navigation system was integrated into the instrument panel, and the Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. New for 2022 were optional touchscreens for the front passenger and rear-seat passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, with additional options available on higher trims.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. It received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick" by the IIHS.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not yet been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came with standard safety features such as driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, and trailer sway control. The vehicle also included various driver aids, enhancing its safety profile.