2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Volvo XC90 was a testament to the brand's evolution in design, showcasing a modern aesthetic that was both elegant and commanding. The SUV's exterior featured distinctive elements like the "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and a sleek grille with blacked-out, honeycomb detailing on the R-Design trim. The interior was equally impressive, with a blend of beige leather and aluminum, offering a luxurious and comfortable environment. Volvo's attention to detail was evident in the craftsmanship, from the Swedish flag tag on the front passenger seat to the twist-action ignition knob. The XC90's design was a harmonious blend of simplicity and quality, setting a high standard for luxury SUVs.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner maintained a rugged and utilitarian design that had aged well over the years. Its two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches emphasized its timeless styling and practicality. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's design was functional, reflecting its off-road capabilities. The interior was straightforward, with hard plastic materials that were easy to clean and a dashboard featuring large knobs and buttons. The 4Runner's design prioritized durability and utility, appealing to those seeking a reliable and robust SUV for adventurous pursuits.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which was deemed insufficient for the vehicle's size. The T6 model, with a supercharger added, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, providing adequate power for highway driving. The Polestar tune further enhanced the T6 to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft, though it still lacked linear acceleration and refinement. The T8 plug-in hybrid variant boasted 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, but its added weight diminished the expected performance gains. Fuel economy was a concern, with the T6 averaging 20 mpg over 800 miles, falling short of competitors. The XC90 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a focus on a serene driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with features like A-Trac traction control and optional upgrades such as a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow and cumbersome, with heavy steering and clunky handling. Its truck-like driving characteristics were part of its charm, appealing to those who valued its off-road prowess. Fuel efficiency was a drawback, with an average of 16.8 mpg during testing, highlighting its thirst for fuel.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 featured a refined interior with a focus on comfort and functionality. The Sensus infotainment system was responsive, though it required familiarity to navigate effectively. The XC90 offered seven seats as standard, with an optional integrated booster cushion for young children. The first and second rows provided ample legroom and support, while the third row was best suited for small children. Cargo space was generous, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. The XC90's interior was thoughtfully designed, prioritizing both luxury and practicality.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's interior was spacious and comfortable, with supportive front and rear seats. The back seat offered ample legroom, good visibility, and convenient features like air conditioning vents and USB ports. A third-row seat was optional, though the test vehicle featured a sliding cargo deck instead. Cargo space was impressive, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. The 4Runner's interior was functional, with decent storage options and a design that catered to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came equipped with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system that combined adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The R-Design trim featured a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power, delivering an exceptional audio experience. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though onboard apps were slow to load. The digital instrument panel offered limited customization compared to competitors, and the tire pressure monitoring system lacked individual tire readings.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The premium audio upgrade added dynamic navigation and voice recognition, enhancing the system's functionality. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical shortcut buttons and knobs for easy operation. Despite its basic appearance, the software was effective, providing a reliable and straightforward user experience.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though its headlight performance limited it to a Top Safety Pick rating. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength steel and innovative safety systems, setting a benchmark for the industry.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner's safety ratings reflected its age, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating for small overlap frontal-impact protection from the IIHS. Its design prioritized durability, though it lagged behind modern safety standards.