2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's positioning as a "premium grade" brand, offering a rugged yet refined aesthetic that set it apart from its sibling, Buick. The redesigned Yukon, available in various trims including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, was a full-size SUV built on a truck platform, emphasizing its robust nature. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, creating an upscale cabin experience. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, exuded a more luxurious appeal compared to the Chevrolet Tahoe High Country, thanks to its intricate grillework and chrome accents.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged appearance. However, its design was somewhat disjointed, with a character line that added unnecessary visual weight. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements provided a unique look, while the infotainment system was positioned for easy access. The Bronze Edition introduced 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, though the latter was prone to dirt and stains. Despite its unconventional design, the Highlander Hybrid offered a quieter ride, making it a comfortable choice for families.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided robust acceleration and a distinctive V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with an average consumption of 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon boasted an independent rear suspension and optional Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable of hustling when needed, thanks to its Active Response 4WD system and oversized wheels. It could tow up to 3,629 kilograms, though this was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 kilometres per hour in just over eight seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power. The ride quality was soft, and the suspension effectively smoothed over road imperfections. While not sporty, the Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort, with a quiet cabin on the highway.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console. However, the front seats could feel hard during long drives, and the upper door panel edges were not wide enough for comfortable elbow support. The second-row seats slid and collapsed for improved comfort and cargo room, while the third-row seat offered actual thigh support and adult-friendly space. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres available in the standard Yukon and 4,097 litres in the Yukon XL.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining capabilities for added comfort. The third-row seat was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded. At maximum capacity, the Highlander Hybrid offered 2,387 litres of cargo space, which was average for its class.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included wireless device charging, a navigation system, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays was cutting-edge, though streaming content required some trial and error. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch head-up display, rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera angles, enhancing maneuverability.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. Limited and Platinum trims included navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. While the technology met expectations, the larger touchscreen's glossy surface could reflect light, obscuring the display.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with numerous advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Starting with the SLT trim, additional features like blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were included. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Yukon's substantial curb weight provided a sense of security.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum trim offered a surround-view camera system and head-up display. While the safety systems generally worked as intended, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist could benefit from fine-tuning.