2021 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

When examining the 2021 Volvo XC60, it became evident that it represented a significant evolution for the Swedish brand, which had experienced considerable changes in ownership over the years. Initially under Ford's wing and sharing platforms with Ford and Mazda, Volvo found new life after being acquired by the Geely Holding Group in 2010. This rebirth allowed Volvo to innovate, creating vehicles with new platforms and distinct engineering.

Sitting in the middle of Volvo’s crossover lineup, the XC60 borrowed its design language from its siblings, characterized by an elegant and athletic two-box design. It featured short front and rear overhangs, a distinctive upright grille, and the iconic "Thor’s hammer" LED daytime running lights, which gave it a uniquely Swedish flair. Paint quality, chrome accents, and trim were all executed to high standards, complemented by alloy wheels that could go up to 21 inches in size, enhancing its fashionable appearance.

Inside the XC60, the Scandinavian touch was unmistakable. The cabin was serene, with clean lines and authentic materials creating an airy atmosphere. The portrait-oriented 9-inch infotainment display exemplified modernity, blending seamlessly with the interior layout. Small details like the HVAC vent design and intuitive controls reinforced the cabin's near-luxury status, making the XC60 a very inviting place to spend time.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 exuded a rugged SUV persona, with a boxy exterior featuring chiseled taillights and a scowling front end. This marked a departure from the more approachable designs of previous RAV4 generations, aiming to deliver a more robust and adventurous look. The RAV4's aggressive design was a deliberate move to differentiate it from other compact crossovers and tap into the appeal of traditional SUV styling.

Though the RAV4 shared its underpinnings with other Toyota models via the TNGA platform, it received several visual enhancements to reinforce its rugged image. Adventure and TRD Off-Road models introduced unique exterior elements like two-tone roofs, matte black wheels, and distinctive color accents. The interior followed suit with large rubberized knobs and rugged touches that set it apart from other Toyotas, though higher trim levels didn't see an elevation in material quality relative to price increases.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 boasted a range of engine options, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model offered both FWD and AWD and produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque using a turbocharger. The T6 variant, which was AWD only, combined a turbocharger with a supercharger to ramp up performance to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 models added an electric motor, creating a plug-in hybrid system that delivered a combined 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, with the T8 Polestar Engineered variant further tuning the output to 415 hp.

The XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered, in particular, showcased impressive acceleration and the flexibility of a plug-in hybrid, which could run up to 19 miles on pure electric power. The XC60’s driving dynamics were exceptional, with a solid and secure feel on the road, aided by the responsive AWD system and torque vectoring.

Fuel economy for the XC60 varied by model, ranging from an EPA-rated 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway/25 mpg combined for the T5 FWD to 27 mpg combined for the T8 PHEV, and an impressive 57 MPGe in electric-only mode. Volvo recommended premium gasoline for all XC60 models to ensure optimal performance.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with a single engine choice—an efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with FWD and AWD both available. Toyota also offered hybrid options, including a 219-hp RAV4 Hybrid and a 302-hp RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid for those seeking additional power and efficiency.

The Dynamic Force engine in the RAV4 was notable for its high thermal efficiency and responsiveness, with a peak power output at 6,600 rpm and a redline of 6,750 rpm. However, the RAV4's transmission struggled to keep pace with the engine's capabilities, leading to a somewhat disjointed driving experience. The RAV4's steering, while quick to respond, lacked the tactile feel of more sports-oriented crossovers.

On highways, the RAV4 excelled in comfort with low cabin noise and a suspension system adept at handling road imperfections, but it didn't offer the same spirited driving experience as its engine might suggest. Toyota focused on off-road capability with models like the Adventure and TRD Off-Road, which featured enhanced ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a torque-vectoring rear axle, making them somewhat more adept at handling rougher terrains. However, their off-road prowess was tempered by limited suspension articulation and subpar approach and departure angles.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was purpose-built to deliver safety, comfort, and style. It featured highly adjustable front seats that received high marks for comfort and were equipped with a robust heating system, ideal for dealing with harsh winter conditions. The rear seats offered practical storage solutions, including seatbacks, door panels, and the center armrest.

Cargo space in the XC60 was substantial, offering 21.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 63.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, all measured to the roof. Whether for daily errands or extended travel, the XC60's cargo area provided ample room for luggage and other essentials.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4's design favored practicality, with a tall roof that enhanced headroom and decent outward visibility through generous glass areas. Front seats were notably comfortable in models like the TRD Off-Road, although the rear seats, with their flatter cushions, were less inviting for long journeys. Unlike some competitors, the rear seats in the RAV4 did not slide fore and aft, which limited versatility.

Cargo capacity in the RAV4 was competitive, offering 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place. While not specified with the seats folded, the cargo area was user-friendly, featuring a wide aperture for easier loading, though the cargo lip sat higher than in some rivals. The interior also featured oversized knobs and useful storage bins, although the design sacrificed some versatility for a rugged aesthetic.

Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system was central to the 2021 XC60’s technology suite. Using a tablet-style touchscreen in a portrait orientation, Sensus provided an intuitive, if somewhat polarizing, user experience. Frequent users of devices like the iPad found the system's swipe and pinch gestures familiar, while others faced a learning curve. The system divided the touchscreen into functional quadrants, making it easier to switch between audio, navigation, and other functions.

Standard technology in the XC60 included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot with a trial subscription. The Volvo On Call app enhanced vehicle functionality, offering remote start, locking, and maintenance reminders. Added to this was an exceptional Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system that delivered rich, immersive sound.

Toyota equipped the 2021 RAV4 with a straightforward infotainment system that included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM radio. The base models featured a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims added 8-inch or even 9-inch screens in the RAV4 Prime. Up to five USB ports provided connectivity for both front and back row passengers, and a JBL premium audio system was available for enhanced sound quality.

The RAV4’s infotainment system emphasized practicality, with easy-to-read graphics and shortcut buttons for essential functions. While not particularly flashy, the system was functional and user-friendly, though it lacked advanced features like a head-up display on the gasoline models, a feature reserved for the RAV4 Prime.

Moreover, the XC60 uniquely featured gold safety belts in the T8 Polestar Engineered model, an aesthetic nod to its commitment to safety.

Although certain RAV4 models received lower headlight ratings, impacting its overall safety score from IIHS, the suite of standard and available safety features remained comprehensive and competitive.