2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its reputation for durability with a tougher look. The Adventure trim from the previous year improved off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring AWD system and multiple driving modes. For 2020, the TRD Off-Road trim elevated this further with specialized suspension, all-terrain tires, and distinctive styling elements. Inside, the TRD Off-Road featured TRD logos, rubber mats, and a mix of quality materials, contrasting with some cheaper plastics. Positioned near the top of the RAV4's trim levels, it offered a blend of ruggedness and comfort, with a price reflecting its comprehensive features.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 showcased the pinnacle of modern Volvo design, combining elegance with the robust stature of an SUV. The R-Design trim added sporty elements like a blacked-out grille and 22-inch rims, while the "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and sleek taillights emphasized its distinctive look. The interior, with its Thunder Grey Metallic paint and beige-leather finish, exuded luxury. The XC90 offered various trims, including the opulent Excellence, though it was discontinued for 2020. The cabin featured high-quality materials, comfortable seating with optional massage, and thoughtful details like a Swedish flag tag, highlighting Volvo's commitment to craftsmanship and comfort.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it wasn't available in the TRD Off-Road trim. The 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system with multiple terrain settings and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it adept at handling challenging trails. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road proved versatile in urban settings, though its fuel economy fell short of EPA estimates, averaging 23.4 mpg.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model delivered 250 horsepower, while the T6, with an added supercharger, produced 316 horsepower, or 330 with the Polestar tune. The T8 plug-in hybrid boasted 400 horsepower but was hampered by its weight. The XC90's performance was adequate but not exceptional, with mid-range acceleration and fuel economy lagging behind competitors. The T8 offered limited electric range, and the Polestar upgrade didn't significantly enhance performance. The XC90 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride but uninspiring handling.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating and an 8-way adjustable driver's seat. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery, with optional heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, air vents, and USB ports. The RAV4 provided generous interior storage, including a dashboard shelf, and offered 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A robust roof rack and optional hands-free power liftgate enhanced its utility.

The 2020 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system improved in speed and responsiveness, though some functions were buried in menus. The cabin layout was well-organized, with seven seats standard and an optional integrated booster cushion for children. The XC90 offered generous legroom and comfort in the first two rows, though the third row was cramped. Cargo space reached up to 85.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The XC90's interior emphasized quality and safety, with thoughtful features like a whiplash protection system and high-strength steel construction.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The TRD Off-Road trim included an 8-inch display with optional navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The voice-recognition technology was notably effective. The optional Technology Package added wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror with adjustable settings.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came standard with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system, and four-zone climate control. The R-Design trim included a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power. The portrait-oriented touchscreen facilitated navigation, though onboard apps were slow to load. The digital instrument panel offered limited customization compared to competitors. Volvo's technology emphasized safety and convenience, though some areas could benefit from further refinement.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring advanced safety systems like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and adaptive cruise control. It received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, contingent on specific headlights, and offered a generous 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though its headlight performance limited it to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength materials and innovative systems like whiplash protection.