2023 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

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, the side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall body felt disjointed compared to more cohesive designs like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander’s asymmetrical dash was interrupted by a metallic element, creating a storage tray and breaking monotony. The infotainment screen was positioned high for better visibility, but the Bronze Edition’s light grey fabric seats with an odd triangle motif seemed impractical for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Sportage arrived with a completely redesigned look, reminiscent of French automakers. Its exciting and exotic appearance featured standout elements like boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar. The Sportage offered seven trim levels, including new X-Line and X-Pro options. Inside, Kia replaced leather with durable synthetic leather, though it didn’t match the feel of genuine leather. The driver’s view was enhanced by a large windshield and low beltline, while the dash boasted over two feet of display space. However, the use of hard plastics and touch-sensitive controls for HVAC functions proved frustrating.

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, with the electric motors providing initial acceleration. The engine’s hum was subtle under light pressure but became droning under strain. The ride was soft yet confident, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the quieter midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offered a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It was available in FWD and AWD. The engine was slightly more powerful and efficient than its predecessor, achieving 25 mpg city and 32 highway with FWD. However, it lacked the punch of the previous turbocharged option. The X-Line and X-Pro trims added rugged visual cues and off-road features, with the X-Pro offering all-terrain tires and specific drive modes. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Sportage’s on-road performance was hindered by road noise and vibration.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats 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 captain’s chairs or an optional bench for eight-passenger capacity. 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 Kia Sportage, now larger, provided impressive rear-seat legroom of 41.3 inches and 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with seats down. Front storage included a cubby, cupholders, and a center console bin. However, the touch-sensitive HVAC controls were overcomplicated, switching between climate and navigation functions, which proved frustrating.

The Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with navigation and a JBL audio system available on higher trims.

The Sportage boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen on EX trims and above, paired with a driver information display on SX trims. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were wired on higher trims, while the base LX offered wireless connectivity. The interface had similar-looking icons, making navigation challenging. Wireless charging, rear USB-C ports, and a Harman Kardon stereo were standard on higher trims.

The Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist needed refinement.

The Sportage offered standard collision-avoidance tech, with additional features like blind-spot monitoring on higher trims. Adaptive cruise control was available on SX trims. The blind-view monitor and Highway driving assist were exclusive to top trims. Crash test ratings were not yet available.