2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, reminiscent of the Toyota Supra and Sienna, which added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the front's trapezoidal theme, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash was less jarring, with a metallic styling element that provided storage and broke monotony. The Bronze Edition's light grey fabric upholstery, however, seemed impractical for families due to its tendency to attract dirt.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV70 showcased a design that connected it to the G70 sedan, with split-bar headlights and a chrome line suggesting a coupe-like SUV. The interior was luxurious, with top-notch materials and a contemporary yet classic aesthetic. The dash featured a full touchscreen with a rotary dial and button controls, offering a user-friendly experience. The GV70's design cleverly balanced luxury and functionality, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor for the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than its gasoline counterparts. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, but the engine's drone during acceleration was uninspiring. The ride was soft, with a suspension that smoothed bumps without compromising cornering confidence. The cabin remained quiet, enhancing comfort for family travel.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower, both with AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV70 Electrified featured dual electric motors with 429 horsepower, boosting to 483 horsepower with a Boost button. It provided a smooth yet powerful acceleration, though its 236-mile range was modest. The GV70 excelled in blending comfort and handling, offering a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid's front seats were comfortable with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly placed. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining seats, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with them in use. It featured a hands-free power liftgate and decent storage options. Front seats were easily adjustable, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front seats to move forward for comfort. The rear bench reclined, enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on higher trims. The system was responsive, with physical buttons for ease of use. Standard tech included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with navigation and premium audio on upper trims.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included a rotary dial for control, though its proximity to the shifter could cause confusion. Standard features included four USB ports, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, with ambient lighting and a digital key available.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Some systems needed fine-tuning, like the adaptive cruise control's abrupt stops.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Electrified version included most features as standard, with a head-up display available in the Prestige trim.