2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its previous quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood's lip, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The test model was showcased in a Nordic Forest Pearl color, adding to its refined aesthetic. Inside, the HR-V offered a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, with the EX-L trim featuring perforated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power moonroof, creating an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner retained its classic, albeit outdated, design. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged and stable appearance, suitable for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model featured underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires, enhancing its tough persona. However, the interior showed its age with old-school styling and outdated technology. The analog instrument panel and small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen felt like relics from the past. Despite this, the 4Runner offered ample space for passengers and cargo, with a third-row option available on select trims. The interior was practical, with easy-to-use controls and excellent outward visibility.

The 2023 Honda HR-V was powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. This was an improvement over the previous model, but the HR-V still felt underpowered compared to some competitors. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) featured a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. Drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, or ECON drive modes, with Sport mode available for a more spirited drive. The HR-V's suspension and widened tracks made it surprisingly fun to drive on winding roads, but it was not the most powerful option in its segment.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner came equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive, the five-speed automatic transmission held it back compared to rivals with more advanced gearboxes. The TRD Pro model featured standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with sluggish acceleration and noticeable body roll. The 4Runner's soft suspension was great for off-roading but resulted in a bouncy and floaty ride on highways.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a comfortable layout. The center console featured a shelf for storing cords and small items, and the rear seats provided a higher seating position for easier entry and exit. Cargo space measured 24.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 55.1 cubic feet with them folded. The HR-V's passenger volume varied slightly between trims, with the EX-L offering 97.3 cubic feet. Front-row passengers enjoyed improved legroom, while rear-seat legroom decreased slightly.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior, though dated, was practical and spacious. The layout was easy to navigate, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The front seats offered ample space, but taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The second row provided generous legroom, though headroom was limited for taller passengers. The 4Runner could accommodate up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats stowed, and the sliding glass rear window added convenience. However, the lack of remote seat releases in the cargo area was a drawback.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style infotainment system with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a 7-inch color touchscreen display. The EX-L trim offered a larger 9-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The HR-V also included a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad and an eight-speaker audio system on the EX-L trim. Standard features across the lineup included three USB-A ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker audio system.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model came with a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system, but road noise often obscured the sound quality. Additional terrain controls were located in the headliner console, with Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select systems for off-road adventures. However, the lack of off-road-specific apps and gauges was a downside.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came standard with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. The HR-V also featured traffic-sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and automatic high-beams. While the 2023 model had not yet been crash-tested, the 2022 HR-V received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from the NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. The IIHS gave it "Good" scores for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests but noted "Marginal" and "Poor" results in newer tests. The 4Runner included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor. The TRD Pro and Limited trims offered a surround-view camera system, though the 4Runner's alerts were sometimes oversensitive.