2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, reminiscent of the Toyota Supra and Sienna, which added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the grille design, but the overall appearance felt disjointed compared to more cohesive designs like the Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling element provided a unique look, with a high-mounted infotainment screen for reduced distraction. The Bronze Edition featured 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which, while unique, attracted dirt and felt less durable.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, based on the SR5 trim, embraced retro styling with body stripes and bronze accents. It maintained the classic truck-based SUV look, appealing to those nostalgic for the past. The interior, though filled with plastic, felt solid and functional, with controls easy to use even with gloves. The 4Runner's design was purposeful, focusing on durability and practicality, which resonated with its off-road capabilities.

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 (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, with an estimated acceleration to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, but the engine's hum became a drone under heavy acceleration. The ride was soft, with a suspension that smoothed out bumps, making it comfortable for family trips. The cabin remained quiet, except when the engine was pushed hard.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It had a five-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner offered two 4WD systems, with the Limited trim featuring a full-time system. It averaged 13.9 L/100 km in fuel consumption. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions but was less refined on paved roads, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The Highlander Hybrid's front seats were comfortable, with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain’s chairs, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 2,387 litres with seats folded.

The 4Runner's rear window and sunroof provided excellent ventilation. While entry required effort for shorter individuals, the seats were comfortable. The 4Runner offered dual-zone climate control and ample storage, though some lacked liners. The second row was roomy, but the optional third row was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, cargo capacity was 1,337 litres, offering substantial space for a midsize SUV.

The Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with physical buttons for ease of use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with navigation and a JBL audio system on higher trims.

The 4Runner's technology was more traditional, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large buttons and knobs. Voice recognition worked well, though it had limitations with certain commands.

The Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Some systems needed fine-tuning, like the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The 4Runner's safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, with lower scores for frontal collision and rollover resistance. The lane-departure warning was noted for being overly sensitive.