2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Hyundai Kona

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since its 2010 redesign. Despite minor updates over the years, it retained a boxy shape that was both classic and appropriate for an all-terrain vehicle. Its flared fenders and rugged grille design gave it a robust appearance, while features like underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires on the TRD Pro model enhanced its off-road readiness. Inside, the 4Runner showed its age with an analog instrument panel and an outdated eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The interior was filled with hard plastics, though cushioned panels provided some comfort. The design evoked nostalgia for some, but others might have mistaken it for a well-maintained used vehicle.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona maintained its fresh and distinctive appearance, even though it visually resembled the 2024 model. Its flush grille and slim LED light bars gave it a futuristic look, setting it apart in the crossover class. The Kona's increased size, with an additional 15 centimetres in length, improved interior space and gave it a more assertive stance. The N Line trim added sporty design elements, while other trims offered varying levels of visual enhancements. The interior remained unchanged from the previous year, providing a solid and airy feel with ample tech features. The Kona's design was modern and functional, appealing to those seeking a contemporary crossover.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive with rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission limited its performance. The TRD Pro model featured standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, requiring aggressive acceleration to merge onto highways. Its soft suspension, while beneficial for off-roading, resulted in noticeable body roll and a bouncy ride on uneven roads. The 4Runner's loud engine and exhaust added to the overall noise, detracting from the driving experience.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered a choice between two gas-powered engines. The Essential and Preferred trims featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for improved fuel efficiency. The Kona N Line, on the other hand, boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided a more engaging driving experience, although the turbo engine could feel flat at low revs. All-wheel drive was available on the Essential and Preferred trims and standard on the N Line, enhancing traction and handling. The Kona's ride was competent, prioritizing comfort and stability over sporty dynamics.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior design felt dated, but its layout was user-friendly, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road adventures. Visibility was excellent, thanks to the forward-positioned roof pillars. The front seats offered ample space, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted for taller passengers. The 4Runner's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 2,540 litres available when the rear seats were stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks. The sliding glass rear window and towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms added practicality.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered a surprisingly spacious interior, with 723 litres of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,803 litres when folded. Rear legroom was adequate, and the front seats provided a comfortable range of adjustments. The Kona's interior featured numerous storage compartments, enhancing practicality. Upholstery options varied by trim, with cloth, leatherette, and Alcantara available. Heated front seats were standard in Canada, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated seats available on higher trims. The Kona's climate control system offered dual-zone automatic control on select trims, with physical controls for ease of use.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often obscured its quality. Additional terrain controls were located in the headliner console, requiring familiarity with the owner's manual for optimal use. The 4Runner's technology was functional but lacked the modern features found in some competitors.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona boasted a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, offering wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The N Line trim featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, providing customization options and a cohesive look. Audiophiles could upgrade to the N Line with the Ultimate package for an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air software updates, ensuring features remained up to date. The Kona's technology was user-friendly and well-integrated, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from the NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. The IIHS awarded it "Good" ratings for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests but noted "Marginal" and "Poor" results in the small overlap frontal test. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning. The TRD Pro and Limited trims added a surround-view camera system. However, the 4Runner's safety alerts were often oversensitive, requiring adjustments for optimal performance.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its comprehensive safety features, even on base models. Standard equipment included Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more. Higher trims added advanced features like Highway Driving Assist and a Blind Spot View Monitor. The Kona's safety systems were easy to use and effective, contributing to its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. All Konas included six airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system, ensuring a high level of safety for occupants.