Hyundai Santa Fe vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee exuded familiarity while making strides in design evolution. The new model confidently carried Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille design and trapezoidal wheel arches, which echoed the company's storied legacy. Notably shorter and sportier than its predecessor, the Grand Cherokee L, this two-row model maintained a modern edge complemented by influences from the 1963 Wagoneer. The forward-leaning grille and headlights, combined with a sleek beltline and tapered rear roof pillars, lent the Grand Cherokee a refreshing yet classic aesthetic. Buyers had trim choices aplenty ranging from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, with prices spanning from $37,390 to $63,365, plus a $1,795 destination charge.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe opted for a more conservative yet elegant design. Carrying over from its 2022 iteration, it boasted a wide upper and lower grille—a distinct element in Hyundai’s lineup. Complementing this were thin LED headlights that added a touch of sophistication. The Santa Fe was available in five trims: SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy, each with its own set of features. The Calligraphy AWD, our test vehicle, featured a deep Stormy Sea paint and a black-on-black interior. Priced at $45,845 including destination charges, it conveyed a premium feel though its design was less flashy compared to some of Hyundai’s bolder models.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a robust selection when it came to performance. Consumers could choose between a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivered 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque or a 5.7-liter V8 producing a muscular 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Cherokee could tow 6,200 pounds with the V6 and up to 7,200 pounds with the V8. The lineup included rear-wheel drive (RWD) and several advanced four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems optimized for different applications, from light off-roading with Quadra-Trac I to serious trail conquering with Quadra-Drive II. Trailhawk models, in particular, stood out with features like a Quadra-Lift air suspension, electronic locking rear differential, and impressive ground clearance of up to 11.3 inches. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, reflecting the trade-off between performance and efficiency.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, while not designed with off-roading in mind, offered impressive performance through its two engine options. The base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine produced 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged variant ramped up to 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The turbo model, available in Limited and Calligraphy trims, featured an eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing a more sporty and responsive drive. The turbocharged engine's performance was marked by minimal turbo lag and seamless acceleration, making it a pleasure to drive in various conditions. The Santa Fe's towing capacity ranged from 2,000 pounds for the base engine to 3,500 pounds for the turbo variant, requiring trailer brakes for maximum capability. Its drive-mode selector offered four modes: Comfort, Sport, Snow, and Smart, ensuring adaptability across different driving scenarios.

Inside, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a blend of comfort and functionality across its trims. Higher trims showcased luxurious touches such as heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and massaging front seats. Visibility improvements were apparent, especially useful during off-road adventures. Rear-seat legroom, however, was somewhat tight for taller passengers, and the plastic front seatback trim added to the discomfort. Cargo capacity was competitive, offering 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row and expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. For those needing more space, the three-row Grand Cherokee L provided additional legroom and cargo space, benefiting from a more vertical rear window and liftgate design.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in form and function by maximizing its two-row design. This decision allowed for ample rear-seat legroom, measured at an impressive 41.7 inches, making it one of the roomiest in its class. Cargo space was also generous, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the second row and expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded, facilitated by a remote release feature. The Santa Fe’s cabin boasted a range of comfort features, such as an eight-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a hands-free smart liftgate. Higher trims like the Limited and Calligraphy included advanced comfort features such as ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and an expansive panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a technological tour de force. It included a next-gen Uconnect 5 infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen standard, upgradeable to 10.1 inches in higher trims. The system boasted wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. Advanced options like a Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and McIntosh high-end audio system made it a tech-savvy choice. A standout feature was the optional 10.25-inch touchscreen in front of the passenger, enabling navigation assistance and entertainment management, further enhancing the ride experience.

Hyundai's 2023 Santa Fe didn’t lag in technology either. Lower trims featured an 8-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims upgraded to a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wired connections. The infotainment system included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in higher trims, offering rich sound quality. The head-up display and digital instrument cluster provided clear and customizable data readouts. Despite some initial challenges with voice recognition, the Santa Fe’s tech suite was comprehensive and user-friendly, enhancing the driving and passenger experience.