2023 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, extending 1.6 inches longer than its predecessor. It featured revised front and rear fascias, enhanced LED lighting, and sporty character lines, giving it a sophisticated appearance. The new alloy wheel designs complemented the exterior changes. Inside, the instrument panel and center console were separated, creating a more spacious look. Ambient lighting and a rear USB port added convenience and sophistication. The introduction of the N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, enhancing the Kona's athletic appeal. The N Line featured exclusive black seats with red stitching, while the Kona N boasted wide fenders, 19-inch alloy wheels, and sport bucket seats.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia showcased a bold redesign, merging the look of the Toyota Tundra with a creased SUV body. The Capstone trim level offered an upscale interior with leather, wood, and metallic finishes. A 14-inch infotainment system dominated the dashboard, and the cream white-over-black color scheme added luxury. However, some materials reminded occupants of its pickup truck origins. The Sequoia lineup included the SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone trims, with prices ranging from $59,895 to $79,895. The TRD Pro offered off-road capabilities, while the SR5 and Limited could be equipped with a TRD Off-Road Package for added features.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a variety of powertrains. The SE and SEL trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The N Line and Limited trims had a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivering 195 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Kona N boasted a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. The Kona N included performance features like launch control and an electronic limited-slip differential. Our test vehicle, a Kona N Line, provided adequate power and maneuverability, with a curb weight of around 3,300 pounds, offering composed handling and a quiet cabin.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid powertrain, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. The Sequoia's towing capacity increased to 9,520 pounds, and it offered improved fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg with 4WD and 22 mpg with RWD. Our Capstone test vehicle averaged 17.8 mpg. The Sequoia featured multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+. The adaptive rear air suspension adjusted ride and handling traits, though the ride quality was occasionally busy. The steering was slow, and the regenerative braking system felt unresponsive.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona provided ample front-seat comfort, with sufficient headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat occupants faced limited space due to the compact dimensions and sloping roof. Cargo space was tight, with 19.2 cubic feet available with all seats up, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Towing was not recommended for the Kona.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia excelled on open roads, offering comfortable front seats with leather upholstery and a premium sound system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided comfort but lacked sliding capability. The third-row seat was less comfortable, with limited thigh support and legroom. Cargo space was compromised by the hybrid powertrain, with only 11.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 86.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The Sequoia's utility was reduced compared to its predecessor.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona featured an 8-inch display with Bluetooth connectivity on the base SE trim, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard with the base screen. The Kona also included Hyundai Blue Link services and a digital key feature. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with easy smartphone connectivity.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia came with a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen on the base SR5 and a 14-inch screen on higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with connected services offering user accounts and an Intelligent Assistant. The Capstone trim had a 10-inch head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The parking sensors and automatic rear braking system enhanced safety.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. The Kona received five stars from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, with a "Superior" rating for front crash protection.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with features like forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Sequoia's safety systems were effective, though crash test ratings were not available at the time of review.