2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-style symmetry in the rear. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The use of buttons and knobs made it user-friendly, and the solid transmission shifter added a touch of quality.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a classic design that stood the test of time. Despite being in its second generation for 14 years, the Sequoia's exterior design remained tasteful with a modest grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines. Its substantial dimensions, including a height of 1,956 mm and a length of 5,210 mm, gave it a commanding presence. Inside, the Sequoia's age showed, with a flat and old-fashioned dashboard and a 7-inch touchscreen that felt outdated compared to modern SUVs. However, the interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition added a touch of modernity, showcasing Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models featured a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, came with a more powerful 237 hp engine and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm. The ride was smooth and compliant, with a hint of body roll, and the suspension tuning gave it a sophisticated driving character. However, the steering could have been sharper, and the tires offered limited grip.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a single engine option: the 5.7-litre i-Force V8, producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Sequoia's truck roots gave it a payload capacity of up to 608 kg and a towing capacity of 3,221 kg. Despite its weight of around 2,721.5 kg, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent highway performance and off-road capabilities. Its body-on-frame construction and ample ground clearance made it a competent off-roader, especially in the TRD Pro model with Fox shocks. However, its fuel consumption ratings were high, reflecting its older design.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though compact, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided front-seat occupants with perforated leather upholstery, ten-way power adjustment for the driver, and eight-way for the front passenger. Heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, added to the comfort. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. The Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded, falling short of competitors like the Honda CR-V. However, the smart liftgate technology was a convenient feature for hands-free access.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort with spacious seating across all three rows. Three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats were standard, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia's cargo space was impressive, with 535 litres behind the third row and up to 3,401 litres with both rear rows folded. The interior offered ample storage, including a large centre console and door pockets. The Sequoia's auxiliary 12-volt outlet in the cargo area was a practical addition for outdoor activities.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the UVO Intelligence system lagged behind in technological sophistication, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen was outclassed by modern digital dashboards. The Sequoia Platinum and TRD Pro added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. While the Sequoia's technology under the hood lagged behind competitors, Toyota updated the exterior lighting to LED and included standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but it was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Sequoia also featured the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Its robust construction and safety features made it a reliable choice for families.