2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner had not seen a major redesign in over a decade, making it a familiar sight on the road. Despite minor updates over the years, a used 4Runner was nearly identical to a new one, save for some modern infotainment and safety tech. Its design, characterized by a two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, aged well, exuding balanced proportions and timeless utility. The 4Runner's rugged appearance, especially in the Trail Special Edition, was complemented by features like dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels and a Yakima RoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sportier and more modern aesthetic. It was visually lower and wider, with a highback tail and a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The EV6's design included voluptuous curves reminiscent of a Porsche 911, squinting headlights, and a wedgy profile with an angled roofline. The interior featured dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in suede and faux leather, creating a futuristic and airy cabin. The EV6's design was both stylish and functional, with features like flush door handles and a hidden rear charge port.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was built for off-road adventures, as demonstrated during a test at Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreational Area. Equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, the 4Runner handled challenging terrains with ease, thanks to its A-Trac off-road traction control system. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow, heavy, and clunky, with a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system. Its fuel efficiency was poor, averaging 16.8 mpg, and it had a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, offered a thrilling driving experience with its dual electric motors generating 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds and handled corners with precision. The EV6's regenerative braking system provided multiple settings for deceleration, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, its driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of its 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging times varied, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW but often limited by available charging infrastructure.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's high ground clearance made entry challenging for shorter individuals, but once inside, it offered comfortable seating with ample legroom and visibility. The rear seats provided air conditioning vents and USB charging ports, and the sliding cargo deck could hold up to 440 pounds. Cargo space was generous, with up to 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet with them folded down. The Trail Special Edition's roof rack added extra storage capacity.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. Its interior provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, its cargo space was limited, with only 24 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 2,300 pounds, and it included an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition had basic technology features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It also offered a premium audio upgrade with dynamic navigation and voice recognition. However, it lacked advanced features like a blind-spot warning system.

The 2022 Kia EV6 boasted a comprehensive infotainment system with dual 12-inch screens, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a head-up display with augmented reality. It included features like Highway Driving Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a remote parking system. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked a blind-spot warning system and had mixed safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, reflecting its older design.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had not been tested by U.S. safety organizations, but it came equipped with a range of safety features, including lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added features like automatic rear braking and evasive steering assist.