2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Genesis GV70 showcased a distinctive design, borrowing some styling cues from other Genesis models but maintaining its unique identity. It featured quad LED strips for headlights and taillights, a large shield-shaped grille, and a sloping roofline that added a fastback flair. The ribbed detailing enhanced its muscular profile, blending SUV bulk with sleek, car-like elements. The Sport Prestige model added character with unique styling features, including a model-specific front fascia, 21-inch wheels with a web pattern, and dark chrome trim. Inside, the GV70 boasted an elliptical theme inspired by an airplane wing, with a minimalistic design and a rotary gear selector that gave it a futuristic feel. The interior offered various color options and luxurious materials, though base models had leatherette seats.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling inspiration from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid had an unconventional yet less jarring interior with an asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned high for easy visibility, and the Bronze Edition test vehicle featured light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, which seemed impractical for durability. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing, and the third row had more hard plastics, making it less comfortable.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 included a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing its sporty intentions. The Sport+ drive mode enhanced throttle response and transmission behavior, but the GV70's chassis felt heavy and lacked sharpness compared to rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3. The ride was firm, even in Comfort mode, and the exhaust sound was not particularly pleasant.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission. It featured standard front-wheel drive, with optional all-wheel drive via an electric motor. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, but the engine's hum became a drone under heavy acceleration. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing out road imperfections, and the cabin remained quiet on highways. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort over sportiness, making it suitable for family use.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered mid-pack interior space, with adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with rear seats up and 56.9 cubic feet with them folded. The interior design compromised storage space, with a slim center console and thin door pockets. Front seats in the Sport Prestige model were heavily bolstered, featuring heating, ventilation, massage, and posture-assist functions, though some controls were buried in touchscreen menus.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats offered generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining capabilities. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet at maximum capacity.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system had a tile-based layout and a glass rotary controller with pinch-and-zoom functionality. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 included a digital-key feature, a fingerprint scanner, and a high-tech rear-seat monitor using radar. Genesis Connected Services provided remote camera activation and other features for three years.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with wireless charging on XLE trims and above. Limited and Platinum trims included navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 lacked crash-test ratings but included standard safety features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The system performed well but struggled with sharp curves.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist needed refinement, with abrupt stops and excessive steering resistance.