2021 Hyundai Tucson vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson presented a more conventional design compared to its futuristic successor. It featured an upright layout that offered a commanding view of the road, complemented by a modern and attractive dashboard design. The tech features were seamlessly integrated into the overall aesthetic, with every button and dial easily accessible. The Tucson was available in several trims, including SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate, each offering a range of features from basic 17-inch alloy wheels and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system to more advanced options like a 360-degree camera system and a panoramic sunroof.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its traditional Jeep design elements while introducing a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. It was available in multiple trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve. The Grand Cherokee's styling paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille and headlights, a lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of luxurious features, especially in the Summit Reserve trim, which included premium leather, a McIntosh audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior design was consistent with the Grand Cherokee L, providing a sense of quality even in the base Laredo trim.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson came with two engine options: a base 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 and offered either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The base engine was considered underwhelming, especially at highway speeds, while the 2.4-liter engine provided a livelier performance around town. The Tucson's towing capacity ranged from 1,500 pounds with the base engine to 2,000 pounds with the 2.4-liter engine.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine was standard across most trims, while the V8 was available with higher trims and exclusively with four-wheel drive. The Grand Cherokee's towing capacity was impressive, reaching up to 7,200 pounds with the V8 engine. Three different 4WD systems were available, catering to various off-roading needs, with the Trailhawk trim offering the most advanced off-road capabilities. The Grand Cherokee's fuel economy ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.

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 everyday needs. The Tucson's interior was comfortable, with supportive front seats and sufficient rear-seat space for adults. The cabin featured numerous storage compartments, enhancing its practicality.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which increased to 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Grand Cherokee's interior was comfortable and well-appointed, especially in higher trims, which offered features like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved in the redesigned model, and the available panoramic sunroof added to the cabin's airy feel. However, rear-seat legroom was somewhat limited for taller passengers.

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, which was optional on other trims. The system was user-friendly, with logical menu layouts and helpful hard buttons. Additional features included navigation, satellite radio, and wireless device charging.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, equipped with the next-generation Uconnect 5 infotainment system. It featured a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and up to five interior touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while a 10.1-inch display was available as an upgrade. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The Grand Cherokee also offered a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2021 Hyundai Tucson was equipped with a solid list of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver drowsiness monitoring. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and a 360-degree parking monitor. The Tucson earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured an impressive collection of advanced driver assistance systems, built on a structure composed extensively of aluminum and high-strength steel. The ADAS package included Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist, which provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance. A hands-free version of Active Driving Assist was expected to be available in 2022, allowing for more autonomous driving on approved roads.