2022 Lexus GX vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a vehicle that appealed to those who appreciated a sleek, black-on-black aesthetic, despite the challenges of maintaining such a finish. The Black Line treatment removed nearly all chrome from the exterior, giving the SUV a bold, dark appearance. However, the design of the GX was reminiscent of its predecessors, with a look that had not significantly evolved over the years. Inside, the cabin was crafted with the high-quality materials and refinement for which Lexus was known, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for its occupants.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 maintained its reputation as a leader in style and design, with a graceful aging process that kept it looking fresh. The XC60 Recharge, particularly in the Ultimate package with the Dark exterior theme, presented a modern and sophisticated appearance. The interior was a showcase of Scandinavian minimalism, with luxurious materials and thoughtful design elements that created an opulent atmosphere. The XC60's cabin was both stylish and functional, with features like a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting enhancing the overall experience.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Despite its substantial curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds, aided by its torque delivery at 3,500 rpm. The SUV's full-time 4WD system and six-speed automatic transmission contributed to its off-road capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was a modest 16 mpg in combined driving, reflecting its less aerodynamic design and always-on 4WD system.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge, on the other hand, offered a more powerful and efficient performance with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor combination. This setup delivered a total of 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque, allowing the XC60 to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The PHEV powertrain provided an estimated 35 miles of electric driving range, with various driving modes to optimize performance and efficiency. The XC60 Recharge also demonstrated impressive fuel economy, averaging 54.6 mpg over a 65-mile evaluation route.

The interior of the 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seating and ample padding. However, the cabin's design was somewhat dated, with physical controls that were sometimes confusing to use. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, limiting its practicality for carrying passengers or cargo. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, especially in tight spaces, and the overall cargo capacity was limited compared to other SUVs in its class.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 provided a more spacious and comfortable interior, with front seats that offered excellent support and a luxurious feel. The rear seats, while slightly tight on legroom, were still comfortable, and the panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space. The XC60's cargo area was well-designed, with 25.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The power liftgate and thoughtful storage solutions made it easy to load and organize items.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was a significant improvement over previous models. It included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with a CD player and a Lexus app. However, the placement of the stereo controls was awkward, and the system lacked some of the more advanced features found in competitors.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, equipped with a Google Built-in infotainment system, offered a more modern and user-friendly experience. The 9-inch touchscreen provided access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for both Android and Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system was impressive, and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality. The XC60's technology suite was comprehensive and intuitive, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other essential safety features. However, it lacked some of the more advanced driver-assistance technologies found in newer models, which might be a consideration for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its commitment to safety, offered a full suite of advanced safety features, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and Oncoming Lane Mitigation. While the XC60 Recharge had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA, the B5 and B6 models received top safety ratings from the IIHS. Volvo's reputation for safety and the comprehensive list of features made the XC60 a strong contender in this category.