Toyota Land Cruiser vs Hyundai IONIQ 5

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 combined the retro charm of a 1980s hatchback with the modern flair of a crossover SUV, resulting in a design that was both unique and appealing. Its profile was distinctly hatchback-like, yet larger than typical models like the Volkswagen GTI or Toyota Corolla. Angular lines and a character line rising from the rear wheels to the front doors created a triangular shape that defined its profile. Dark cladding around the wheels and lower body added a crossover flavor. The front featured a visor slit with rectangular headlights and a small grille, while the rear boasted an integrated spoiler and darkened taillights. The XRT model stood out with unique 18-inch alloys, pixel-patterned cladding, and a more purposeful rally car look. Inside, the Ioniq 5 was utilitarian with a tech-forward approach, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens and a rather sterile interior theme.

The 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser offered two distinct versions: the basic 1958 model and a higher trim level. The 1958 was characterized by round headlights and cloth seats, while the higher trim featured rectangular lamps and artificial leather upholstery. The higher trim also offered more color options and features. Starting at $59,775, the 1958 catered to those seeking a functional vehicle, while the upmarket version, priced from $64,620, targeted buyers wanting more luxury. The Land Cruiser's cabin emphasized function, with the Premium Package adding soft leather upholstery and technology upgrades. Despite its rugged off-road capabilities, the Land Cruiser maintained a quality feel, though it wasn't as upscale as its Lexus counterpart.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains, starting with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup producing 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque in the base SE Standard Range trim. Other trims increased power to 220 hp with the same torque. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive option delivered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft, while the Ioniq 5 N performance model boasted up to 641 hp and 568 lb-ft. The dual-motor powertrain provided quiet, robust power, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. The Ioniq 5 featured five regenerative braking settings and a smooth ride, though it exhibited some lean in corners due to its 4,700-pound curb weight. The XRT model offered a different experience with higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and terrain modes for off-road adventures.

The 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, combining a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive, and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The Land Cruiser's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select modes. Despite its 5,445-pound weight, the powertrain provided adequate performance, though it wasn't particularly quick. The Land Cruiser excelled in off-road conditions, easily navigating challenging trails. On-road, it offered a rugged ride, with some drivetrain clunks and a touchy brake pedal. The Land Cruiser was versatile, handling both urban and off-road environments with ease.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured spacious front seats with standard eight-way power adjustments for the driver and heated front seats across all trims. The Limited trim added ventilated front seats and a "Relaxation" seat for the driver. The rear seat offered 39.4 inches of legroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. Cargo space was slightly smaller than average, with 26.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.5 cubic feet with them folded. A small front trunk added minimal extra space.

The 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser's 1958 model had manually adjustable front seats and cloth upholstery, while the higher trim offered power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation. The Premium Package added genuine leather and technology upgrades. The Land Cruiser accommodated up to five people comfortably, though it lacked a third-row seat. Cargo space was generous, with 46.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 82.2 cubic feet with them folded. However, the high liftover height and lack of a flat load floor made loading bulky items challenging.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasted a modern tech suite with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Higher trims added a wireless smartphone charger and a head-up display. The Ioniq 5 also offered a Wi-Fi hotspot, MyHyundai smartphone app, and Hyundai Pay for charging station payments. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with voice commands and separate climate controls.

The 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser's 1958 model came with a 7-inch digital driver display and an 8-inch touchscreen. The higher trim featured 12.3-inch displays, wireless phone charging, and Toyota Connected Services. The Premium Package added a JBL audio system, digital rearview mirror, and head-up display. Five connected service plans were available, with complimentary subscriptions for some. The infotainment system was easy to use, though it lacked a home screen. The Intelligent Assistant worked well, though it occasionally misinterpreted commands.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitors, parking sensors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Ioniq 5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS but lacked NHTSA crash-test ratings.

The 2027 Toyota Land Cruiser featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe-exit assist system. The Premium Package added lane-change assist and Traffic Jam Assist. The Land Cruiser received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and mixed ratings from the IIHS.