2024 Genesis GV70 vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2024 Genesis GV70 distinguished itself with a sleek design that balanced luxury and SUV presence. Its split headlights and large grille were signature Genesis features, while the hatchback-like rear window profile and large exhaust outlets on the Sport Prestige trim added unique touches. The GV70's styling was more refined compared to competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, which appeared bulkier. The interior was equally distinctive, featuring quilted Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and an elliptical pod housing the climate controls. The infotainment system's rotary controller and the rounded dashboard design added to its unique appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner maintained a more rugged and industrial design, evolving rather than revolutionizing its look. The horseshoe-shaped grille and beveled side panels gave it a broad-shouldered stance, suitable for an off-road SUV. Inside, the 4Runner shared similarities with the Toyota Tacoma, featuring a purposeful and comfortable cabin with hard plastics for durability. The interior was practical, with oversized knobs for climate control and off-road controls grouped for easy access. While the materials were nicer than those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, they didn't match the luxury of a Land Rover Defender.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 offered two gasoline engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Electrified GV70 featured front and rear electric motors delivering a combined 429 horsepower, with a Boost Mode increasing it to 483 horsepower for short bursts. Despite its power, the GV70's chassis tuning didn't match its sporty rivals, feeling heavier and less agile through corners. The ride quality was reasonable but not exceptional, with the suspension crashing over bumps rather than gliding. The Electrified model maintained similar driving dynamics, with the added benefit of adjustable regenerative braking.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner came with a standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available. The i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain combined the four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid option provided stronger power at lower speeds, beneficial for off-roading. The 4Runner's new generation offered improved on-road composure, reducing body roll and nosedive. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models excelled in adventure capabilities while maintaining civility on highways.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 provided competitive interior space, with slightly less headroom than some rivals but more front-seat legroom than the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Cargo space was 28.9 cubic feet with rear seats up, expanding to 56.9 cubic feet when folded. The Electrified GV70's battery pack minimally impacted interior space. The stylish interior design, however, limited small-item storage, though features like automatic side bolsters in Sport mode added to its appeal.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with minimal passenger space gains. The front seats accommodated taller passengers, but the middle row offered only adequate legroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped. The cockpit was well-organized, with controls designed for ease of use, even with gloves. Off-road features included terrain programs, camera views, and a locking rear differential. Cargo capacity was 44.8 cubic feet, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in the Hybrid due to battery placement. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a rotary controller for alternative operation. A fingerprint scanner and digital key functionality added convenience, allowing phone-based vehicle access.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 14-inch option available. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were offered. Off-road models included external camera views and automatic activation for challenging terrain. A 14-speaker JBL audio system and a portable Bluetooth speaker were available. Remote monitoring and a digital key function enhanced convenience, marking a technological leap for the 4Runner.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 received the IIHS's Top Safety Pick+ award for both gasoline and Electrified models. NHTSA ratings included four-star frontal and rollover crash-test ratings for gasoline models, with a five-star overall rating for the 2023 model. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Highway Driving Assist. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system added automated lane-change capability and blind-spot monitoring. A safe exit assist function and a radar-based rear occupant alert system were also included.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were unavailable, but the Tacoma, on which it was based, was an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be disabled if intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.