2024 Hyundai Kona vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of trims in Canada, from the RAV4 LE priced just over $35,000 to the more luxurious RAV4 Limited exceeding $45,000. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a distinctive two-part face. The Trail trim in the US had a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional black cladding, giving it a rugged appearance. Inside, orange accents and contrast stitching added flair, while a frameless rearview mirror provided a touch of elegance. The RAV4's interior was practical, with various upholstery options and adjustable seating, culminating in the Limited trim with heated and ventilated seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Kona was designed with an electric vehicle aesthetic, featuring a grille reminiscent of the Ioniq 5 and a sleek LED headlight. The new Kona was longer, offering a recognizable silhouette with updated design elements like the creased "parametric surface" on the doors. Standard LED lighting and varying wheel sizes across trims added to its modern look. Inside, the Kona's cabin was revamped with a driver-oriented centre stack and a relocated gear shift, creating more space. The curved display housed driver-information and infotainment screens, enhancing the interior's sophistication.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with all-wheel drive, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4's performance was more functional than thrilling, with a focus on reliability. The Trail trim featured 19-inch wheels and a robust suspension system, but its off-road capabilities were more aesthetic than practical.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a 2.0-litre engine for the Essential and Preferred trims and a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine for the N Line. The base engine delivered 147 horsepower, while the turbo offered 190 horsepower. The new 8-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous dual-clutch system, and paddle shifters were included with the N Line. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The Kona's handling was nimble, though acceleration was modest even with the turbo engine.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seated five, offering 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear. Front legroom was 1,039 mm, with 960 mm in the back, providing ample space for passengers. The RAV4 excelled in storage, with 1,059 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with seats folded. Practical storage solutions included a dashboard shelf and generous door pockets.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona's increased length improved rear-seat legroom to 970 mm and headroom to 974 mm in the front. Cargo capacity expanded significantly to 723 litres with seats up and 1,803 litres with them down. Interior storage was enhanced with a passenger-side dash shelf and a wireless charging pad. Seating options varied by trim, with ventilated front seats available in the N Line with the Ultimate package.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, upgraded to 10.5 inches in the Limited trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Toyota's connected services. The Limited trim featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system, while a 7-inch driver-information display was standard, upgraded to 12.3 inches in the Limited.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto except in the N Line with the Ultimate package. The Kona's audio system was upgraded to Bose in the N Line, and dual 12.3-inch displays provided a panoramic view. Hyundai's Bluelink connected services and a digital key feature were standard, enhancing the vehicle's technological appeal.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 included standard safety features like lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The TSS 2.5 suite offered advanced driver-assistance systems, and the RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona featured standard safety tech, including Safe Exit Warning and blind-spot collision avoidance. Adaptive cruise control was standard from the Preferred trim, and the N Line's Ultimate package added advanced features like Surround View Monitor. Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist provided smooth lane-keeping, enhancing the Kona's safety credentials.