2020 Hyundai Kona vs 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser presented a design that was understated yet functional. Its exterior was not flashy, but rather featured subtle styling choices that became apparent with use. The dished hood improved forward sight lines, aiding in navigation over obstacles, while the bulging fenders accommodated wheel travel and indicated the vehicle's width. The Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim and bronze wheels, enhancing its rugged appeal. Inside, the Land Cruiser approached luxury with its black perforated leather seating and functional dashboard, though it leaned towards a more utilitarian aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Kona boasted a sleek and sporty exterior that stood out in the economy car segment. Its design cleverly utilized its compact dimensions to create a visually stimulating appearance, with tiered lighting and matte plastic trim enhancing its perceived size. The Kona's exterior was complemented by two-tone wheels and a ground-hugging stance, giving it a premium vibe. However, the interior did not match the exterior's excitement, with hard plastics and lackluster finishes. Despite this, the Kona's layout was functional, and its high-resolution screens and responsive switchgear were commendable.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This naturally-aspirated engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided the SUV with impressive off-road capabilities. The Land Cruiser's suspension system, featuring a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control, ensured a smooth ride over various terrains. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona, on the other hand, offered a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine, available on the Limited and Ultimate trims, provided strong acceleration and was paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Kona's handling was impressive, with fast steering and a stable suspension that minimized body roll. While the ride was stiffer and noisier compared to some competitors, the Kona excelled in agility and road feel, making it a delight to drive on twisty roads.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser's interior was designed for both comfort and utility. The standard model featured a three-row configuration, accommodating up to eight passengers, while the Heritage Edition offered a two-row setup. The Land Cruiser's interior was equipped with four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. Its split tailgate design facilitated easy loading and unloading, and the SUV's towing capacity of 8,100 pounds made it a versatile choice for families and adventurers alike.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Kona struggled with interior space, offering only 19 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While seating for four was adequate, the Kona's cargo capacity was limited compared to competitors. Despite its compact size, the Kona's controls were user-friendly, and its infotainment system was straightforward. However, its utility was compromised by its cramped interior, making it more akin to a small hatchback than a true crossover.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a range of technology updates, including a Qi-compatible inductive charging station and a 9-inch touchscreen interface. The sound system included 14 JBL speakers and various audio options, though it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera provided useful views for navigating tight spaces, enhancing the Land Cruiser's practicality.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona offered a comprehensive list of standard features, with the base model including a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added features like wireless charging, an eight-speaker Infinity stereo, and Blue Link connectivity. The Ultimate trim boasted an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and adaptive cruise control, showcasing Hyundai's commitment to providing advanced technology at an affordable price.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Star Safety System and 10 airbags, ensuring a high level of safety for occupants. However, it had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona received high safety ratings, earning five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS. It came standard with forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. The Ultimate trim added pedestrian detection, though it scored lower in this area compared to vehicle detection.