2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2024 Genesis GV80

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000 for the base Hybrid LE, with the Limited trim reaching $61,800 in Canada. It featured minimal appearance changes, with a new Cypress Green paint colour being the most notable update. The Highlander Hybrid's design was characterized by exaggerated forms, including scowling headlights and dramatically sculpted rear forms, which some found visually overwhelming. Inside, the cabin continued this theme with oversized elements like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and large climate control knobs. However, the interior quality was questionable, with controls and materials feeling inexpensive and storage areas unlined, leading to potential noise issues. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid was notably quiet on the road.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80 exuded luxury with its stylish design and premium materials. The Prestige trim offered six exterior colours and 22-inch wheel designs, while the interior featured diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents. Ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display further emphasized its status as a flagship SUV. The GV80's design left no doubt about its luxury credentials, although the Prestige Signature trim available in the U.S. was not deemed exceptional enough to warrant its absence from the Canadian market.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, delivering 243 combined horsepower. This setup provided standard all-wheel drive and allowed the SUV to operate solely on electricity at low speeds. However, the gas engine's 175 pound-feet of torque limited high-speed passing power, and towing capacity was a modest 1,588 kilograms. The Highlander Hybrid offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but its soft suspension and continuously variable transmission made for a less engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was a focus, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system, but real-world consumption was higher than expected at 8.2 L/100 km.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 producing 375 horsepower. The latter provided more satisfying performance but was thirstier, with observed fuel consumption at 13.7 L/100 km. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 excelled in driving dynamics, offering swift acceleration and a sporty feel, especially with the 3.5T's adaptive damping suspension and upgraded brakes. It could tow up to 2,720 kilograms and handled mountain roads with commendable grip and composure.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, though the third-row seat was best for occasional use. Standard features included three-zone climate control and heated front seats, with the Platinum package adding more comfort options. The interior offered power-adjustable front seats and second-row captain's chairs with sunshades. However, accessing the third row was challenging, and the seats were uncomfortable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,387 litres available, but the storage console design was unnecessarily complex.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige offered a third-row seat, with real or Nappa leather upholstery depending on the trim. Standard features included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the seats were not as comfortable as expected, with the driver's cushion becoming uncomfortable on long trips. Second-row legroom was limited, but cargo space was ample, with up to 2,378 litres available when the rear seats were folded.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Remote Connect allowed remote access to vehicle functions, while the Drive Connect service plan offered advanced features like natural voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. The JBL sound system provided decent audio quality, though the graphics could be improved for better visibility.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial on the centre console for ease of use. The standard package included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the infotainment display was visually pleasing. The GV80 also offered a digital key system and a Lexicon premium sound system, with a head-up display standard in Canada for added safety.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional features like parking sensors and a surround-view camera on higher trims. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a comprehensive array of safety features, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The latter worked well in light traffic but was less effective in heavy traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided video feeds within the digital instrument panel, enhancing safety during lane changes. The GV80 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.