2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Kia Sportage

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle whose design elements revealed their purpose over time. It wasn't flashy, but its subtle styling choices, like the dished hood, were functional, enhancing the driver's forward visibility. The fenders, slightly bulging from the vehicle's sides, provided space for wheel travel and indicated the SUV's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze wheels, while the interior offered luxury with black perforated leather seating and a functional, albeit plain, dashboard.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Sportage featured a design that some might have described as frog-like, with its tiger-nose grille and bulbous headlights. Kia marketed it as "Euro-focused," and its compact dimensions made it ideal for urban environments. The interior, while not cutting-edge, was pleasant, with an 8-inch touchscreen as the centerpiece and physical controls for ease of use. The Sportage's cabin was comfortable, though not as tech-forward as some might expect from Kia.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was renowned for its confidence and capability, powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, achieving fuel economy ratings of 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was supported by its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles. Its Multi-Terrain Select control and Crawl Control systems ensured secure travel over any terrain, making it a serene and relaxing cruiser.

The 2021 Kia Sportage offered a choice between a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 240 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with fuel economy ranging from 20 to 30 mpg depending on the configuration. The Sportage's McPherson-strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension provided a smooth ride, though the steering and tire grip left room for improvement. The SX Turbo trim, in particular, offered a rewarding driving experience for those seeking a sporty crossover.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser balanced its dual roles as a commuter and overlander with features like standard skid plates, tow hooks, and a roof rack. The three-row configuration of the standard model accommodated families, while the Heritage Edition offered a two-row setup. The interior boasted four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box. The Land Cruiser's split tailgate was a charming feature, and it could tow up to 8,100 pounds, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2021 Kia Sportage, though smaller, provided good interior space with power-adjustable seats in the SX Turbo trim. Heated and ventilated seats added comfort, but cargo space was limited, with 30.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 60.1 cubic feet total. While not as spacious as some competitors, the Sportage offered a practical and comfortable environment for passengers.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Toyota Premium Audio, including 14 JBL speakers and integrated navigation. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it offered a Qi-compatible charging station and an Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system. The technology was functional but not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2021 Kia Sportage's 8-inch touchscreen interface was user-friendly, with standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SX Turbo trim added wireless charging and a premium audio system. The technology was straightforward and easy to use, with logical menus and physical controls, providing a satisfying experience for most users.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser, though not crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, offered a robust suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P and the Star Safety System. It had 10 airbags, active headrests, and a range of driver assistance features, ensuring a high level of safety for occupants.

The 2021 Kia Sportage excelled in safety, with standard advanced driver assistance systems like forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The SX Turbo trim added adaptive cruise control and received a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS. All trims performed well in NHTSA crash tests, making safety a strong selling point for the Sportage.