2022 Kia EV6 vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Kia EV6 was a strikingly sporty and svelte vehicle, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. It featured a lower and wider stance, with a highback tail and a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the furthest corners of the chassis, giving the car a hipped look similar to a Porsche 911. The headlights had an aggressive V-shaped pattern, and the wedgy profile with an angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler added to its sharp appearance. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, boxy design, a nod to its roots in the 1980s SUV craze. It maintained its relationship with the Toyota Tacoma pickup, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The high ride height, sharply angled front bumper, and functional design elements highlighted its adventurous spirit. Inside, the 4Runner's layout was reminiscent of the late 2000s, with a focus on functionality over modern aesthetics. The various trims offered a range of features, from the basic SR5 to the off-road-ready TRD Pro, each catering to different needs and preferences.

The 2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line e-AWD, with its dual electric motors, produced 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, thanks to its 77-kilowatt-hour battery. The top-power GT trim, expected in fall 2022, promised 576 hp and a sub-3.5-second 0-60 time. The base EV6 Light, with a 58 kWh battery and 167 hp, was less impressive. The EV6's performance was notable for its instant torque delivery, smooth power distribution, and customizable regenerative braking settings. However, its driving range in cold weather was disappointing, achieving only 65% of its 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging times varied, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW but often limited by available infrastructure.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner, powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivered 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, provided reliable but underwhelming performance. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome on paved roads, with significant body roll and a rough suspension. However, off-road, the 4Runner excelled, with its suspension absorbing rocks and bumps effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their trail capabilities. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, its cargo space was limited, with 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The towing capacity was 2,300 pounds, and it had an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner provided a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the two-row version, slightly more than the three-row model's 88.8 cubic feet. With the second-row seats in use, the two-row 4Runner offered 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The three-row model had 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row and just 9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The 4Runner's power-open/close rear window was a standout feature, making it easy to stow items in the back. Despite its age, the 4Runner's cabin was functional, with plenty of storage spaces, though it could be more efficient.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with dual 12-inch screens, wireless charging, and a 14-speaker Meridian stereo. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras were standard, with higher trims offering additional features like remote parking. The head-up display (HUD) used augmented reality for navigation and adaptive cruise control. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, Satellite Radio, and multiple USB ports. Navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system were available as upgrades. The system relied on tactile controls, making it easy to use, especially with gloves. While it lacked advanced features like a head-up display, the straightforward layout was appreciated by those who preferred a simpler interface.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had no published test results from U.S. agencies but came equipped with impressive safety tech. Standard features included lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention monitor, rear parking sensors, safe exit warning, and rear occupant alert. Higher trims added front parking sensors, automatic rear braking, 360 cameras, evasive steering assist, and adaptive cruise with machine learning.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars for frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and three stars for rollover testing. It had not been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.