2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2021 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was a blast from the past, hearkening back to a design that was last significantly updated 12 years ago. Though Toyota had made incremental updates over that period, a used 4Runner didn't differ dramatically from a new one, save for some recent tech enhancements. It wasn't exactly attractive with its loud, aggressive front-end styling, except perhaps in the chrome-laden Limited trim. However, its overall design, marked by a two-box body, flared fenders, and trapezoidal wheel arches, aged remarkably well. It had a utilitarian, timeless appeal reminiscent of a reliable tool that doesn’t need constant redesigns. The 4Runner offered various trims like SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, plus special editions such as the Trail Special Edition, Venture Special Edition, and Nightshade Special Edition. Prices ranged from $36,950 for a base SR5 to $50,570 for a TRD Pro. Our Trail Special Edition test vehicle, priced at $43,729, was notable for features like dark gray TRD wheels, a Yakima RoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket, and a unique interior cooler.

Inside, the 4Runner's cabin was rugged with an abundance of hard plastic surfaces. But this was consistent with the vehicle's no-nonsense, easy-to-clean mission. The dashboard was old-school with large knobs and buttons, manual air conditioning, and a traditional key ignition, evoking a nostalgic simplicity that many owners loved.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe, in contrast, had a modern look, though the XRT trim didn't entirely convince with its exterior package. While it featured rugged visual elements, it lacked functional upgrades like a suspension lift or improved tires. Side steps, though handy for roof access, impeded entry and negatively impacted off-road utility. It was available in trims ranging from SE and SEL to the more luxurious Limited and Calligraphy. Our test XRT model in Portofino Gray had a bit of an underwhelming monochrome look, exacerbated on overcast days. The test vehicle, including AWD and a few minor features, came to $35,940.

Inside, the Santa Fe XRT managed to bring thoughtful design and good quality to its cabin despite not being as luxurious as higher trims. Brightwork and interior patterns added a welcome touch, ensuring a pleasant environment. The seats offered comfort with power adjustments and heating, and even though the front passenger seat wasn't height-adjustable, rear accommodations were particularly good.

Performance-wise, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner excelled off-road but lagged on pavement. We tested it in the rugged terrain of Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreational Area, where its A-Trac system helped navigate challenging moguls effectively. Equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, the 4Runner had a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds. Despite its off-road prowess, the 4Runner felt slow and cumbersome on regular roads, with clunky handling, heavy steering, and inefficient brake response. Its fuel economy was another downside, averaging 16.8 mpg, with an EPA rating of 17 mpg combined.

On the other hand, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, was adequate but underwhelming for faster, more demanding drives. The eight-speed automatic transmission and driving modes like Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow provided some versatility. However, performance suffered on inclines and during rapid acceleration. Notably, upgrading to the Limited or Calligraphy trims offered a peppier 281-horsepower turbo-four engine with similar fuel efficiency. Our test saw an average fuel economy of 22.3 mpg against an EPA rating of 24 mpg. The Santa Fe's ride was smooth and composed, with excellent suspension isolation and cabin quietness, creating a more pleasant on-road experience.

In terms of practicality, the 4Runner stood high off the ground, which could be a challenge for shorter passengers. However, once inside, the seats were comfortable with abundant rear legroom and useful cargo area features like a sliding deck capable of holding 440 pounds. It offered up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, providing enough room for adventurous gear plus a roof rack for overflow.

The Santa Fe XRT offered dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents, ensuring comfort for all passengers. An eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provided good driving ergonomics, though the non-adjustable height of the passenger seat was a minor drawback. Rear-seat space was ample, ideal for families, and included thoughtful touches like side-window shades. Storage included various nooks and a under-console tray for added utility. The Smart Tailgate was convenient but sometimes overly sensitive. Cargo capacity stood at 72.1 cubic feet with seats folded flat, making it less commodious than the 4Runner but still sufficient for most needs.

On the technology front, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition was fairly basic but functional. It came with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The premium audio upgrade added dynamic navigation and voice recognition. Physical controls were large and glove-friendly, making the system easy to use despite its vintage appearance.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT boasted more advanced tech features, such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluelink services, were standard, offering remote functions like engine start. The system was user-friendly with clear graphics and logical menus. Higher trims offered an even more sophisticated 10.25-inch screen and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

Safety was another area of significant contrast. The 2021 Toyota 4Runner equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) included basic features like forward-collision warning, automatic braking, and lane-departure warning but lacked advanced aids like blind-spot monitoring. It had mixed crash-test results, with suboptimal ratings in some frontal-impact assessments, reflecting its older design.

Conversely, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came loaded with Hyundai SmartSense technologies, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Unique features like Junction Turning Detection and Safe Exit Assist added layers of protection. The Santa Fe earned top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a safer choice overall.