2025 Hyundai Kona vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a design evolution rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation, but with a more robust and industrial look. The side body panels featured deep beveled creases that seamlessly blended with the flared wheel arches, giving the 4Runner a broad-shouldered stance suitable for an off-road SUV. Paying homage to its predecessors, the new model included design elements like the slanted rearmost window from the first-gen 4Runner. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Toyota Tacoma's design, with beveled styling throughout. The interior was functional, with hard plastics for durability and light cushioning for comfort, offering a quality that surpassed the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco but fell short of the Land Rover Defender.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona, visually unchanged from the 2024 model, still stood out in the crossover class with its futuristic design. The single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars gave even the gas-powered models a modern look. The Kona's increased size, about six inches longer, improved interior space and road presence. The new N Line S and N Line trims offered a sportier design with body-colored bumpers and cladding. The interior remained unchanged from 2024, featuring solid construction and ample tech. The 64-color ambient lighting became standard on higher trims, enhancing the cabin's ambiance. The Kona's interior was practical, with a focus on comfort and storage, making it a versatile choice for drivers.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available. The more powerful i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain combined the four-cylinder engine with a 1.87-kWh battery and an electric motor, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid option provided stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling improved significantly, offering a more composed ride on pavement while maintaining its off-road capabilities. With nine trims, the 4Runner catered to various off-road needs, with the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models being the most capable.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). For more power, the N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims came with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, enhancing performance. All-wheel drive was available across the lineup, offering active on-demand drive to the rear axle and a dedicated Snow mode. The Kona's ride and handling focused on competence, with AWD models featuring a more sophisticated suspension setup.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner grew five inches longer, with a 2.4-inch increase in wheelbase. While this typically results in more passenger space, the gains were minimal. The front seats offered ample room for taller passengers, but the middle row was less accommodating, with adequate legroom and headroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped, suitable only for short trips. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and tactile off-road controls. Storage options included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.6 cubic feet in the hybrid due to the battery. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place, expanding to 63.7 cubic feet when folded. Rear legroom measured 38.2 inches, with 38.3 inches of headroom, providing adequate space for passengers. The front seats featured a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The drive selector was relocated to a stalk on the steering column, creating additional storage space. The Kona's interior offered excellent storage options, with numerous shelves, trays, and cubbies. Upholstery varied by trim, with cloth on lower trims and Alcantara or leatherette on higher trims. Heating and ventilation features progressed with trim levels, enhancing comfort.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 14-inch option available. Both systems offered logical menus and quick responses, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A digital instrument panel was standard on Hybrid models and available on others. Off-road models included external camera views for precise tire placement, with automatic activation when crawling. A 14-speaker JBL audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and control were possible through a smartphone app, and a digital key function replaced the key fob.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona came with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, featuring wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims included wireless smartphone charging and Hyundai's digital key. The SEL Convenience trim and above featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offering customization options. N Line and Limited trims offered an eight-speaker Bose audio system, while lower trims had a six-speaker setup. Built-in navigation was available on select trims, with Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity enabling over-the-air updates.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were not available, but the Tacoma, on which it was based, received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. All 4Runner models came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like 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.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and Safe Exit Warning. Higher trims added Highway Driving Assist and enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. Limited trim included parking assistance features. All Konas came with six airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Kona received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.