2023 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since 2008. Its exterior maintained a classic appeal with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, avoiding the oversized trends seen in other SUVs. The Sequoia's dimensions were substantial, standing 77 inches tall, 79.9 inches wide, and 205.1 inches long, with a 122-inch wheelbase. Inside, the Sequoia's age was more apparent, with a dated dashboard and a 7-inch touchscreen that seemed out of place compared to the larger screens in newer models. However, the interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and comfort for families. The Nightshade Special Edition added a modern touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

The 2023 Honda HR-V introduced a significant styling update, presenting a sleeker and more modern look. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to its sophisticated appearance, while the removal of black molding strips and the repositioning of windshield wipers added to its clean lines. The HR-V's interior was thoughtfully designed, with new seats and a center console that offered practical storage solutions. The EX-L trim featured perforated leather seats and dual-zone climate control, providing a comfortable and upscale cabin experience. The HR-V's interior followed the refinement trend set by the 2022 Civic, with premium touches like a metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights. Despite its fastback design, visibility remained excellent, and the HR-V's cargo capacity was among the largest in its class.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. However, its weight of 5,730 to 6,000 pounds contributed to its low fuel economy ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its robust construction and independent double-wishbone suspension.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. This was an improvement over the previous model, and the updated CVT with Step-Shift function aimed to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. The HR-V offered Normal, Snow, and ECON drive modes, with Sport mode available for a more dynamic driving experience. The HR-V's new front and independent rear suspensions, along with widened tracks, made it enjoyable to drive on winding roads, though it lacked the power of some competitors. The HR-V was available with FWD or AWD, and while it was fun to drive, it was not overpowered compared to rivals with multiple powertrain options.

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 space was versatile, with 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 120.1 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The interior provided ample storage options, including a large center console and door pockets, making it ideal for families and long trips.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, while a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with practical storage solutions. The center console featured a shelf for drive mode controls and USB ports, providing convenient storage for cords and devices. The HR-V's cargo space measured 24.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 55.1 cubic feet with them folded, slightly smaller than the previous model but still competitive in its class. The HR-V's passenger volume varied by trim, with the EX-L offering a bit more space. The rear seats provided a higher seating position for easier access, and the nearly flat floor when folded added to its practicality.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, WiFi connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, while a premium package included a 14-speaker JBL audio system. Despite its technological shortcomings, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2023 Honda HR-V improved its technology offerings with a tablet-style infotainment display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with wireless versions available on the EX-L. The HR-V featured a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 9-inch infotainment display on the EX-L, which also included a wireless charging pad. The HR-V's system offered programmable shortcuts and Smart Shortcuts for personalized use. Standard features included three USB-A ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker audio system, with higher trims offering more advanced audio options and connectivity features.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota's STAR safety system, which encompassed stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia also featured a full complement of airbags, crumple zones, and child safety features.

The 2023 Honda HR-V made Honda Sensing standard across all trims, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems. This included adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and automatic high-beams. The HR-V's safety features were generally unobtrusive and effective, with a single-camera system providing a wide field of vision. While the 2023 HR-V had not been crash-tested, the 2022 model received high safety ratings, and updates for the new model year aimed to improve its safety performance.