2021 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer, friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs, which typically featured more traditional and intimidating designs. Its distinctive styling included unique window lines converging near the taillights, housing the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior, though plain, was functional and well-constructed, with good material quality. Higher trims like the EX and EX-L offered features such as push-button start, automatic climate control, a moonroof, and heated front seats, with the EX-L adding leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a mature design, having been in its second generation for 14 years. Its exterior was characterized by a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight lines, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia's dimensions were impressive, with a height of 77 inches, a width of 79.9 inches, and a length of 205.1 inches, riding on a 122-inch wheelbase. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition model added modern touches with darkened chrome or black-painted finishes and 20-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its contemporary appeal.

The 2021 Honda HR-V was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While all-wheel drive was available, front-wheel drive was standard. The HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, with the CVT compounding the issue. However, its chassis provided a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. The HR-V's all-wheel-drive system was not designed for off-road use, and it lacked towing capabilities.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a robust 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain was known for its durability and reliability, making it a good match for the Sequoia. With a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds, the Sequoia was well-suited for heavy-duty tasks. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and ample ground clearance. The TRD Pro model further enhanced its off-road prowess.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space for its size, thanks to the "Magic Seat" 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat. With the seat folded down, it offered 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space (57.6 for AWD models), surpassing many competitors. The HR-V also provided ample rear-seat legroom, though front-seat legroom and headroom were average. While lacking clever storage solutions, the HR-V featured sensibly designed controls, including large knobs for climate control and a standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo compartment included an auxiliary 12-volt outlet, with 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Folding the third row expanded cargo space to 66.6 cubic feet, and folding both the second and third rows provided a generous 120.1 cubic feet of space.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim came with standard Bluetooth, a 5-inch display screen, and a four-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Sport trim added a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The EX and EX-L models included SiriusXM satellite radio. While the infotainment system was functional, the optional 7-inch touchscreen was considered small compared to competitors, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard on the base trim.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package offering 14 JBL speakers. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED exterior lighting and a rear backup camera, with upper trims offering a power liftgate.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in all IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, it received "Marginal" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" rating for LATCH child-seat anchor ease of use. Honda Sensing safety features were available on the EX and EX-L trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The Sequoia also featured a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and the STAR safety system, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. A full complement of airbags and other safety features were standard.