2022 Genesis GV70 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling included black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. The interior of the Highlander Hybrid Platinum trim offered a two-tone look with soft leather, but the dashboard's asymmetrical element and the 12.3-inch screen suffered from reflections on sunny days. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges also contributed to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its unique styling, diverging from the rest of the Genesis lineup. It featured the brand's two-line lighting signature, creating an illusion of a contiguous circle around the vehicle. The GV70's design included a distinct shoulder line and unique accent lines around the side windows. The Sport and Sport Plus grades received special treatments, such as a sculpted hood and dark chrome finishes. Genesis offered a wide range of exterior and interior colour combinations, allowing for creative customization. The cabin featured elliptical-themed inserts inspired by airplane wings, with options for genuine carbon fibre in the Sport trims. While some plastic elements were present, they were strategically placed to minimize visibility.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. It achieved a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km, with a total output of 243 horsepower. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, it lacked excitement in driving dynamics. The power was adequate for climbing hills and reaching freeway speeds, but the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering felt lifeless, and the SUV exhibited unwanted body movement on uneven roads. However, it provided a comfortable and quiet ride on smooth surfaces, with regenerative brakes operating transparently.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the test unit equipped with a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. This engine aimed to compete with mid-level performance SUVs like the BMW X3 M40i and Audi SQ5. The GV70 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, prioritizing the rear axle. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced torque distribution. The GV70's drive modes, including Sport+, delivered aggressive throttle response and improved handling. The electronically controlled suspension system provided a balance between comfort and road feedback, making it suitable for various driving conditions.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow interior made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat lacked comfort and space, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded. The maximum capacity was 2,387 litres. However, storage options were limited, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized the driver's experience with a tall centre console and intuitive controls. The infotainment system featured a raised dial for easy operation, and climate controls were configured under a single pane with haptic feedback. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. The rear space offered independent legroom adjustment and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo volume was 819 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The tonneau cover could be stowed under the rear load floor, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. The JBL sound system offered powerful audio, but the sound quality varied depending on music genres. The Highlander also included Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 impressed with its technology offerings, including a 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen. The system supported split-screen layouts and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium Sport Plus grade featured a 3D digital instrument cluster and Blind View Monitor system. The GV70 introduced a fingerprint recognition system for keyless vehicle start. A nine-speaker audio system was standard, with an 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system available on higher trims. USB ports were provided for both front and rear passengers.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ with automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. It added intersection support and emergency steering assistance for enhanced safety. The blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with a surround-view camera system on the Platinum trim. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 included ten standard safety features, such as blind spot collision avoidance assist, lane departure warning, and forward collision avoidance assist. It introduced a rear occupant alert system using radar to detect movement. The Genesis Highway Driving Assist system provided lane centring and automatic lane changing functions. While safety ratings were not yet available, the GV70's on-board systems demonstrated high quality and performance.