2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 combined the retro charm of a 1980s hatchback with the modern flair of a crossover SUV, resulting in a design that was both unique and appealing. Its profile was distinctly hatchback-like, yet larger than traditional models like the Volkswagen GTI or Toyota Corolla. Angular lines and a character line rising from the rear wheels to the front doors created a triangular shape that defined its silhouette. Dark cladding around the wheels and lower body added a crossover touch. The front featured a visor slit with rectangular headlights and a small grille, while the rear boasted an integrated spoiler and darkened panels. The XRT model stood out with unique 18-inch alloys, pixel-patterned cladding, and a more rugged appearance, reminiscent of a rally car.

Inside, the IONIQ 5 leaned towards a utilitarian aesthetic with a strong emphasis on technology. The base model featured standard cloth upholstery, while higher trims offered synthetic leather. The interior was dominated by a pair of 12.3-inch screens and touch controls for the climate system, creating a modern yet somewhat sterile environment. The overall design was functional, with a focus on technology rather than luxury.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, four years into its lifecycle, received a refresh that maintained its upright stance and large windows but introduced a new illuminated grille and welcome-lighting sequence. Inspired by the all-electric Wagoneer S, the new nose gave it a fresh, modern feel. The Upland trim added front recovery hooks for increased utility without compromising elegance. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer exuded modernity with clean design and strong horizontal lines. The 12-inch infotainment screen, though smaller than expected for such a large vehicle, was complemented by redundant HVAC and audio controls. The seats, while plain in appearance, offered exceptional comfort and adjustability, making long drives pleasant.

The cabin's trim and materials were premium, with solid metal gearshift dials and available Nappa and Palermo leather in upper trims. The Grand Wagoneer's fit and finish were impressive, with doors that closed with a solid thwap and armrests that felt sturdy. The overall interior experience was one of luxury and comfort, suitable for a wide range of drivers.

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque in the base SE Standard Range trim. Other trims increased output to 220 hp with the same torque. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration boosted power to 320 hp and 446 lb-ft, while the IONIQ 5 N performance model delivered an impressive 641 hp and 568 lb-ft. The dual-motor powertrain provided quiet, robust power, especially from a stop, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. Regenerative braking offered five settings, from freewheeling to one-pedal driving, enhancing the driving experience.

The IONIQ 5 XRT trim offered a unique driving experience with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and three terrain modes—Mud, Sand, and Snow—optimizing traction control and throttle mapping. On off-road trails, the Sand mode excelled, allowing the XRT to navigate loose terrain with ease. However, the IONIQ 5 lacked underbody skid plates and high-performance shocks, limiting its rally capabilities compared to competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a standard 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth, effortless power, even in the hefty 6,000-pound vehicle. Despite a power downgrade from previous years, the standard-output Hurricane engine remained impressive. The Grand Wagoneer was also set to receive a range-extended electric powertrain, combining a 92-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine, producing an estimated 647 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque.

Despite its large proportions, the Grand Wagoneer was surprisingly agile and easy to drive. Its size absorbed road imperfections, and the spacious interior offered comfort for long journeys. While tire and wind noise were present, the overall driving experience was quiet and luxurious.

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 provided spacious front seats with standard eight-way power adjustments for the driver and front passenger in most trims. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated seats and a "Relaxation" seat for the driver available in the Limited trim. The rear seat offered 39.4 inches of legroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. Cargo space was slightly smaller than average for a compact crossover, with 26.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.5 cubic feet with the second row folded. A small front trunk added 0.85 cubic feet of storage.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer excelled as a people mover, offering three rows of seating with ample leg and hip room. The optional bench seat in the second row allowed for up to eight passengers, with the third row accommodating three people comfortably. Cargo space behind the third row was 27.9 cubic feet, expandable to 42.6 cubic feet in the long-wheelbase version. The Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it a versatile choice for families and adventurers.

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Higher trims added a wireless smartphone charger, head-up display, and Bose audio system. The MyHyundai app allowed remote control and monitoring of the vehicle, while Hyundai Pay facilitated charging station payments. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with voice commands and separate climate controls.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims offered a 23-speaker McIntosh sound system, digital rearview mirror, and four-zone climate controls. While the tech generally performed well, the wireless phone charger had issues, and the 12-inch screen felt small for the vehicle's size. Adjustable pedals were no longer available for 2026.

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitors, parking sensors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist 2. The IONIQ 5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS but lacked NHTSA crash-test ratings.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered a robust array of safety features, such as lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. Available features included automated parking assist and a surround-view camera system. The Grand Wagoneer received mixed safety ratings, with a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a combination of Good and Marginal scores from the IIHS.