2023 Genesis GV70 vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Genesis GV70 was a striking blend of luxury and style, drawing clear design inspiration from its sedan counterpart, the G70. Its split-bar headlights and a distinctive chrome line that curved from behind the rear window were notable features that connected it visually to the G70. This chrome bar cleverly suggested a coupe-like SUV design without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a testament to Genesis's luxury credentials, featuring top-notch materials and an impressive fit and finish. The interior design was both contemporary and classic, with climate controls integrated into a curving bezel and a touchscreen that rose organically from the dash. The GV70's dash was equipped with a full touchscreen, a rotary dial, and button controls, offering a user-friendly interface that was superior to the touch capacitive controls found in some competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), exuded a retro charm with its retro body stripes, heritage grille design, and bronze accents. This special edition was based on the SR5 Premium trim and added a four-wheel-drive system as standard. The 4Runner's design was reminiscent of truck-based SUVs from the past, giving it an enduring appeal. Inside, the 4Runner's cabin was purposeful, with plenty of plastic but a solid and quality feel. The controls were straightforward and easy to use, even with gloves on. The 4Runner's interior was designed for practicality, with comfortable seats and numerous storage locations, although some lacked rubber liners, leading to potential rattling.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a choice between two gas-powered engines and an electrified version. The 2.5T model featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.5T model boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70's performance was well-rounded, blending comfort and sharp handling. The electrified version used a 77.4-kWh battery pack powering two electric motors, delivering a combined 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower for short bursts. The electric GV70 had a range of 236 miles and featured DC fast charging capabilities.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The 4Runner's performance was tailored for off-road adventures, with a minimum of nine inches of ground clearance and various off-roading technologies, including Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. The 4Runner's ride and handling were enhanced by different suspension setups depending on the trim level, with the TRD Pro offering a suspension tuned for high-speed performance in the dirt. While the 4Runner excelled off-road, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with the seats in use. It featured a hands-free power liftgate and a well-designed interior with decently large cupholders and a helpful tray in the center console. The front seats were comfortable and easy to adjust, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to slide their seats forward for more space. The rear bench could recline for added comfort.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power-down rear window, providing an immersive driving experience. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seats and numerous storage locations, although some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and air conditioning vents. The 4Runner could be equipped with a third-row seat, but it was uncomfortable and reduced cargo space. Without the third-row seat, the 4Runner offered 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menu navigation. The GV70 also included four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Additional features like ambient lighting and a digital instrument panel were available.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's technology was more traditional, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with Amazon Alexa compatibility. The 4Runner's infotainment system was praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, with real knobs and buttons that were easy to use. Upgrades included a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features like a blind-spot camera system and a 360-degree parking camera system were available in higher trims.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a three-star rating for front passenger protection and rollover resistance.