2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with its MSRP of $42,083, presented a blend of rugged and refined aesthetics. Despite its fully-loaded status, it maintained a modest appearance, akin to a rental car. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was robust for a compact SUV, though it could have benefited from larger wheels to enhance its tough look. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was a mix of style and practicality, with a combination of high-quality materials and some less impressive glossy hard plastics. The interior was functional, though a rattle from the license plate was noted during the test drive.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 exuded a sense of luxury and sophistication, moving away from Volvo's boxy past. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trims. The XC90 offered a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery, with the test vehicle featuring leather seats, which proved beneficial during a hot and humid test week. The XC90's interior was both stylish and functional, providing a luxurious experience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided standard AWD and offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, and its instant electric-motor torque made it feel lively. The EPA rated it at 40 mpg combined, and it averaged 39.7 mpg during testing. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. However, the tires lacked grip, affecting cornering performance.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with 250 hp, the T6 with 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with 455 hp. The T8 model, tested, provided spirited acceleration with its electric motor delivering torque early. The XC90 handled like a smaller SUV, with minimal body roll. The T8 achieved 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range. The extended range variant offered up to 36 miles of EV range. The XC90's driving experience was smooth and enjoyable, with a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was decent, and the cargo area provided 37.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior was practical, with ample storage options and user-friendly controls.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children, while the cargo space ranged from 15.9 cubic feet to 85.7 cubic feet with seats folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds. The interior was spacious and airy, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well during a heat wave, ensuring comfort.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The test vehicle had an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, though voice recognition had limitations. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view system.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system featured a nine-inch touchscreen with smartphone-like gestures. The system was occasionally glitchy but worked well with Apple CarPlay. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a head-up display were available. The XC90 offered a Harman Kardon sound system, with a Bowers & Wilkins upgrade for audiophiles. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were standard, along with the Volvo Care app for remote functions.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. The XC90 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.