2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Kia Telluride

When exploring the 2022 Jeep Wrangler, potential buyers had to first decide between the classic two-door model or the more practical four-door variant. Depending on that choice, they could select from a variety of powertrains: turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or plug-in hybrid. The turbo-four and V6 engines came standard with a six-speed manual transmission, although an eight-speed automatic was available. The Wrangler's 4WD system was standard, but the variety of systems changed with different trim levels.

The Jeep Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with various special editions branching from these, featuring options like fabric soft tops, black hardtops, body-color hardtops, or even the Sky One-Touch Power-Top. The price range was broad, from about $30,000 to close to $80,000, depending on customization and options. The specific model tested, the High Tide special edition, was built on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (four-door) Sport S trim, adding features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and High Tide-specific decals. What truly distinguished the High Tide was the standard Xtreme Recon package, featuring a 1.5-inch suspension lift, revised shock tuning, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, and 35-inch BF Goodrich T/A KO2 tires, among others.

Despite the overall cost nearing $60,000, the High Tide's interior remained basic, closely resembling that of the Wrangler Sport S trim. This utilitarian approach suited the Wrangler’s purpose as an adventurous, no-frills off-roader. Yet, for those expecting luxury at this price point, the basic interior could be a letdown. The High Tide also introduced an air filtration system claiming to eliminate 95% of particulates, adding a silver lining to the rugged and open construction of the Wrangler. New color options included Silver Zenith, High Velocity Yellow, and the limited-edition Gobi paint.

Turning to the 2023 Kia Telluride, reviewers tested the new X-Line and X-Pro models, both offering unique design tweaks and new color options such as Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green. The Telluride received redesigned front and rear styling, updated lighting, and fresh wheel designs. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition and featured a raised suspension, distinctive grille design, raised roof rails, and black 20-inch wheels. The X-Pro added 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road appearance.

Interiors saw significant updates, notably the available digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both integrated under a sleek 24-inch curved glass display. The Telluride's interior enhancements included new color themes and ergonomic improvements, making the center console more functional. Both the X-Line and X-Pro trims embossed their respective names into the front seatbacks. With available trims ranging from the LX to the SX Prestige, and prices starting at $35,690 and rising to $52,785, the Telluride was positioned in the higher-end segment of midsize SUVs.

Notably, the Telluride's Wolf Gray X-Line trim and Midnight Lake Blue X-Pro trim featured premium materials and a luxurious yet practical design, catering to buyers seeking comfort and cutting-edge technology.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, generating 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory $4,000 option on the High Tide. Additionally, our test vehicle came with the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, beneficial for slippery conditions. The EPA estimated that the Wrangler Unlimited with eTorque V6 would achieve 21 mpg in combined driving, but the Xtreme Recon Package modifications reduced our real-world fuel economy to an average of 16.8 mpg over a week of testing.

Driving a Jeep Wrangler involved frequent fuel stops and adaptively noisy, bumpy, and responsive steering characteristics that some drivers found charming. The rough and unique driving experience created an immersive journey that engaged all senses, making the Wrangler a lifestyle choice rather than a mere vehicle. Off-road adventures highlighted the Wrangler’s strengths, allowing drivers to connect with nature and escape daily stress.

In technical terms, the Wrangler’s V6 propulsion and dynamic suspension system excelled in off-road environments, but comfort and convenience took a backseat. Its unpredictability could transform driving into a sensory experience, with visibility and control demanding full driver attention.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, maintaining its mechanical foundation from previous models, featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could select from Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, complemented by an AWD system with a low-speed Lock setting for optimal power distribution.

The Telluride V6 delivered strong performance, returning 24.1 mpg in the X-Line during mixed driving conditions, including heavy traffic and twisty roads. The more rugged X-Pro version was less efficient, averaging 20.4 mpg but included off-road testing. The EPA-rated AWD Telluride achieved 21 mpg in combined driving.

The Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models boasted a raised suspension and improved ground clearance, allowing them to tackle off-road challenges with enhanced approach and departure angles. The new Downhill Brake Control system proved beneficial on downhill slopes, asserting the Telluride’s off-road credibility, although in a controlled environment. While not designed to match the extreme capabilities of a Jeep Wrangler, the X-Pro model offered sufficient off-road competence to exceed the expectations of most owners.

On highways, the Telluride excelled with a smooth, composed ride, minimal cabin noise, and bolstered comfort, although off-road tires made it feel slightly squishy in turns. The steering was well-balanced, although Sport mode firmed it up more than necessary. Overall, the Telluride’s driving experience was refined and pleasant, appealing to those who valued comfort and modern amenities.

Accessing the 2022 Jeep Wrangler was challenging, especially with the High Tide’s elevated suspension. Climbing aboard could be a strain, particularly for shorter individuals, who risked soiling their clothes on a dirty exterior. The manual height adjuster for the driver’s seat required frequent adjustment, as entering and exiting the vehicle caused the seat to lower.

Once inside, the Wrangler’s seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber interiors. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and windshield, necessitating an adjustment period. Visibility varied from excellent to compromised, especially with the High Tide’s 35-inch spare tire impacting the rear view. However, the rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors mitigated these issues.

Rear passengers faced the same entry challenges, compounded by the intrusive rear wheel wells. Once seated, two adults found ample space and comfort with air vents, cup holders, and grab handles. However, speakers mounted on the overhead roll bar were close to their heads. Storage was a mixed bag, with limited useful spaces and challenging tailgate operation, particularly with a heavy spare tire. The Wrangler Unlimited offered 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row configuration. Our reviewed vehicles featured premium Nappa leather, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front- and second-row captain’s chairs. Space was abundant, with comfortable front seats bolstered by a new power lumbar stabilization system designed for long trip comfort.

The second-row provided ample comfort, with manual sunshades, adjustable armrests, USB ports on the front seatbacks, and climate controls. A button facilitated third-row access, and larger adults could enter with relative ease. Although not as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas, the third row was more accommodating than most midsize SUVs.

Storage solutions in the Telluride were plentiful, and the smart power tailgate enhanced convenience with proximity sensing. Cargo space was 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rear rows down, surpassing the Wrangler’s cargo capabilities.

The Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect system offered upgrades like satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system along with an Alpine premium sound system, yet the provided technology met most needs through streaming and smartphone integration. Additional tech options included remote start, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, single-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats and steering wheel from the Cold Weather Group.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride boasted a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, navigation, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system performed well, although it didn’t control climate functions. The Kia Access app facilitated remote command functions via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and OTA updates kept the system current. Six USB ports ensured charging capabilities for all passengers.

Innovative features like Driver Talk, Quiet Mode, Harman Kardon premium sound, wireless charging, digital-key technology, and Full Display Mirror enhanced the Telluride’s tech offerings. The head-up display (HUD) delivered useful driving information, and the Leading Vehicle Departure Alert reminded drivers when traffic started moving.

The Jeep Wrangler High Tide, equipped with the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and high-beam headlights. Despite these features, the Wrangler’s crash-test ratings were disappointing, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from IIHS in small overlap and side-impact tests.

Contrastingly, the 2023 Kia Telluride included a comprehensive suite of standard safety features and expanded ADAS. Standard features encompassed forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, adaptive cruise control, Safe Exit Assist, and new junction turning and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist systems.

Higher trims of the Telluride added evasive steering assist, front parking sensors, low-speed automatic braking while parking, a surround-view camera, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Highway Drive Assist 2.0 with Lane Change Assist. Safety systems like Driver Talk, Quiet Mode, Rear Occupant Alert, and an enhanced HUD contributed to making the Telluride a safer vehicle. As crash-test ratings for the 2023 model were unavailable.