2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner had a classic, utilitarian design that stood still in the ever-changing car aesthetics arena. Toyota had last redesigned the 4Runner over a decade ago, and although there had been some updates since then, the overall vehicle maintained its rugged, functional look. You could purchase a used model from years prior and find it remarkably similar to the new one. While it hasn’t been revered as "attractive," the 4Runner boasted a hearty, two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches. It carried balanced proportions and timeless styling that underscored its undeniable utility, much like a reliable tool.

Toyota offered the 4Runner in several trims: SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. Each had its own special edition model. For instance, the Trail Special Edition was based on the SR5, Venture Special Edition on the TRD Off-Road, and Nightshade Special Edition on the Limited. Pricing ranged from $36,950 for the SR5 with rear-wheel drive (RWD) to $50,570 for the TRD Pro with standard four-wheel drive (4WD). The test vehicle was a new-for-2021 Trail Special Edition priced at $38,565 MSRP for the RWD model, and approximately $43,729 including upgrades and a destination charge.

Toyota built only 4,000 examples of this specific edition, with colors like white, black, Cement (gray), and Army Green. It featured dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels and Yakima RoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket. Inside, the Trail Special Edition included black cloth upholstery with tan stitching, all-weather floor mats, a sliding rear cargo tray, and a custom-made 40-quart cooler.

The interior of the 4Runner leaned heavily on hard plastic, fitting its mission of durability and easy cleanup. The old-school dashboard had large knobs, buttons, and manual air conditioning that required self-adjustment. This was the first vehicle in years that used a traditional key to start, embodying its simple yet durable nature.

The 2022 Volvo XC90, in contrast, showcased a modern, elegant profile that departed from the boxier Volvos of yesteryears. This model represented Volvo’s ascent toward the luxury class following its acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010. Riding on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), the XC90 flaunted a compelling stance with a roofline that was sleek yet spacious, pronounced wheel arches, superior fit and finish, and a "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlight detail, a cheeky nod to its Swedish roots.

Inside, the XC90 radiated a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic. Natural wood and metal trims lent an authentic feel, while the clear crystal gear selector handle and sliding wood tambour center console cover set a luxurious tone. Volvo was shifting towards leather-free interiors by 2030, but this model still offered Nappa leather and a "tailored wool blend" upholstery. During testing in hot weather, the leather seats provided an unexpected respite, reinforcing Volvo’s focus on comfort.

When it came to performance, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner shone in off-road capabilities but dragged in everyday driving scenarios. It featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, linked to a five-speed automatic transmission. Our test vehicle handled various challenging terrains efficiently, thanks to the A-Trac off-road traction control system.

But this vehicle felt cumbersome on paved roads. Its truck-like handling, heavy steering, and the need for consistent gas stops due to an EPA estimated 17 mpg in combined driving underscored its off-road advantages and suburban struggles. The 4Runner was an authentic, old-school SUV, not a modern crossover masquerading as one.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain choices: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque; the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version boasting 316 hp and 295 lb-ft; and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft torque combining gasoline and electric sources. Available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), the XC90 used an eight-speed automatic transmission for all models.

The XC90 excelled on the performance front, providing a responsive, smooth drive that belied its size. Whether accelerating briskly or smoothly transitioning power, the XC90 delivered a superb driving experience even amid tough conditions. Fuel economy for the T5 FWD stood at 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, while the T8 model boasted an impressive 55 MPGe.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner demanded a bit of effort to board, especially for shorter folks, but rewarded occupants with commendable comfort once inside. The front and rear seats offered excellent support, and the rear seat had ample legroom and good visibility. Our Trail Special Edition came with a practical sliding cargo deck, supporting up to 440 pounds. Without a third-row seat, cargo space ranged from 47.2 to 89.7 cubic feet, complemented by its expansive roof rack.

Conversely, the 2022 Volvo XC90 offered both six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations. With one-handed ease, the second row folded to provide access to the third row, which was better suited for kids. With six configurations, the XC90 provided between 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row to 85.7 cubic feet with the seats folded, straddling comfortably for multiple needs. Towing capacity ranged from 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, more suited to less ambitious towing requirements. The airy, light-filled cabin thanks to a panoramic moonroof, bolstered comfort and usability during our humid test drive, highlighting Volvo's adaptability to extreme temperatures.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition was understated in its technological offering. Aside from practical inclusions like a windshield wiper de-icer and a cargo area power outlet, it was primarily old-school. An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system provided a robust suite of features, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa compatibility. The premium audio upgrade further enhanced functionalities, though the system's simplicity resonated with the 4Runner’s utilitarian mission.

On the other hand, the 2022 Volvo XC90 heralded advanced technology reminiscent of tablet interfaces. The Sensus infotainment system, with an intuitive nine-inch portrait touchscreen, was somewhat inconsistent in responsiveness but bettered by Apple CarPlay. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional Advanced package, featuring a head-up display and 360-degree camera, proved highly useful. Also, the Harman Kardon sound system or the premium Bowers & Wilkins upgrade catered to audiophiles, reinforcing the XC90’s luxury ethos.

Safety in the 2021 Toyota 4Runner relied on Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), including adaptive cruise control (though not fully stopping), forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot monitoring was absent, a notable omission given modern safety standards. NHTSA rated the 4Runner's rollover resistance at three stars, with mixed results on other crash tests, partly due to the 4Runner’s older design.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 sported a comprehensive safety suite, reflecting Volvo’s vision for ultra-safe vehicles. Features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist set a high bar. These advanced safety elements helped the XC90 earn 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, marking it as a class-leading safe vehicle.