2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, or 40 ASE, was based on the SR5 Premium trim level and added $4,505 to its price. This included a $1,875 charge for the standard four-wheel-drive system. The remaining cost covered retro body stripes, a heritage grille, bronze 17-inch wheels, and various bronze accents. Available in black, white, or red paint with a black artificial leather interior, the 40 ASE exuded a nostalgic 1970s vibe. The fifth-generation 4Runner maintained its truck-based SUV appeal, with a solid interior featuring easy-to-use controls, even with gloves on.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between the 2.5T and 3.5T models, with trim levels ranging from Standard to Prestige Signature. Our test vehicle, a 3.5T in Prestige Signature trim, featured a Matterhorn White Matte paint job, bringing its MSRP to $84,600. The Prestige Signature trim included exclusive exterior colors, dark chrome trim, and nearly invisible 22-inch wheels. Inside, the Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior was luxurious, with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and ambient lighting. The GV80's flagship status was underscored by its 3D digital instrument cluster and wide touchscreen display.

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 and had a fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in combined driving. The 4Runner featured two 4WD systems, with the Limited trim offering a full-time option. Off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. Despite its off-road prowess, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 2.5T boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Our 3.5T test vehicle had a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 offered five driving modes and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The 3.5T model featured upgraded brakes and an adaptive damping suspension, providing a rewarding driving experience with swift acceleration and commendable grip on mountain roads.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's standout feature was its power-down rear window, offering an immersive driving experience. While entry and exit required effort for shorter individuals, the seats were comfortable, with SofTex artificial leather and heated front cushions. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and USB charging ports. A third-row seat was available but compromised cargo space. The 4Runner offered 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat. The Prestige Signature trim featured power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated second-row captain's chairs, reducing passenger capacity to four. The interior boasted premium materials, a panoramic glass roof, and triple-zone climate control. However, the seats were uncomfortable on long trips, and second-row legroom was limited. The GV80 offered 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with available upgrades like a navigation system and JBL premium sound. The voice recognition system performed well, though it couldn't adjust cabin temperature due to manual controls.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument display in the Prestige trims and a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The system included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 also featured a digital key system and a Lexicon premium sound system, with a head-up display in the Prestige trims. The voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the infotainment display was visually pleasing and intuitive.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection in a small overlap frontal-impact test.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the frontal-impact test earned four stars for driver and passenger protection.