GMC Yukon vs Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 GMC Yukon was a striking presence on the road, especially for those with a penchant for chrome. Even the base SLE model boasted enough shiny elements to exude a premium aura, but it was the Denali trim that truly embraced the chrome aesthetic. The Denali's front end was a spectacle of chrome, with a massive, multi-dimensional grille reminiscent of an industrial cheese grater, flanked by GMC's signature C-shaped headlights. The 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, part of the optional Ultimate package, stood out against the dark Redwood Metallic paint, adding to the vehicle's commanding presence. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted cabin, with standard seating for eight and options for second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to seven but enhancing third-row access. The Denali trim featured exclusive interior designs, with our test vehicle showcasing the Teak/Light Shale colour combo, which added a premium touch with its contrasting colours, unique stitching, and natural wood details.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, based on the SR5 trim, celebrated retro styling with its groovy yellow, orange, and red stripes, bronze 17-inch wheels, and heritage grille design. The 4Runner maintained the rugged, truck-based SUV look that appealed to those nostalgic for the past. Inside, the cabin was purposeful, with plenty of plastic but a solid feel. The controls were straightforward and easy to use, even with gloves on. The 4Runner's interior offered a comfortable experience, with dual-zone climate control and numerous storage locations, though some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating was roomy, with excellent leg support and a properly angled backrest. However, the optional third-row seat was cramped and compromised cargo space. The 4Runner's rear window, which powered down into the tailgate, provided a unique open-air experience when combined with the sunroof and windows.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines, including a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, standard on all trims except the Denali. The Denali and AT4 trims featured a 6.2-litre V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. A 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, known as the "Baby Duramax," was also available, delivering 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon had a maximum towing capacity of 3,810 kilograms with the 5.3-litre engine and Max Trailering Package. The independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, though some bouncing was noted over rough surfaces. The optional air ride adaptive suspension enhanced the ride, especially on highways, and provided additional ground clearance for off-roading.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner featured two 4WD systems, with the Limited trim offering a full-time 4WD system. The SUV had a ground clearance of 24.4 centimetres and standard Active Traction Control. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with features like a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, but on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a brake pedal that lacked finesse. The powertrain maintained steady performance on inclines, but handling was less composed on winding roads.

The 2022 GMC Yukon provided ample space for passengers and cargo, with a redesigned third row offering 886 mm of legroom. Cargo capacity behind the third row increased to 722 litres. The independent rear suspension and extended wheelbase contributed to the spacious interior. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options eased access to the third row. The Denali trim featured a power-sliding centre console with hidden storage, and power-retractable assist steps facilitated entry and exit. The pushbutton transmission controls required some acclimation but offered a modern touch.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's interior featured a power-down rear window, providing an open-air experience. The cabin offered comfortable seating, with SofTex artificial leather in the 40 ASE trim. Dual-zone climate control and numerous storage locations were available, though some lacked liners. The second-row seating was spacious, with good legroom and USB charging ports. The optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner offered 1,337 litres of cargo space. The tailgate doubled as a seat, and the cargo area included storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre, a 15-inch head-up display, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and wireless phone charging. The Denali trim offered a Bose 14-speaker audio system and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. The system supported various media formats but required an adapter for phone or tablet connections.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner had traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The system used real knobs and buttons, making it user-friendly. Upgrades included a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system. The voice recognition system performed well, though it had limitations with certain commands. The infotainment system's home screen displayed multiple functions simultaneously, a feature not available in newer Toyota models.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Safety Alert Seat and rear camera mirror enhanced safety. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for front crash protection and five stars for side crash protection.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured Toyota Safety Sense, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The adaptive cruise control performed well, but lane-departure warning could be irritating. The 4Runner received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with three stars for front passenger protection and rollover resistance.