2023 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX was available in several trims, including the base 350, F Sport, and L for its gas powertrain, with a hybrid model known as the RX 450h. The RX 350 and F Sport accommodated five passengers, while the L trim offered a three-row, 7-passenger configuration. The design, which had been refreshed in 2020, maintained a modern and sporty appearance, standing out with its aggressive styling among competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X5. The RX featured sharp character lines and angular boomerang-like elements, creating a striking yet balanced design. The F Sport trim, in particular, emphasized performance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier exterior details. Inside, the RX continued its luxury appeal, with the F Sport adding sporty touches like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the interior design felt somewhat dated, and the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was lacking, with limited lumbar support and challenging driving position adjustments.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's past boxy designs, presenting a purposeful yet understated look. Its front end was solid and assertive, complemented by the distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" headlights. The XC90's dimensions remained somewhat rectilinear, but it no longer resembled the utilitarian designs of the past. The test vehicle, an AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Gray paint with subtle brown undertones. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather steering, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather seats. The minimalist design was enhanced by wood deco inlays, creating a clean and sophisticated cabin. However, the lack of physical controls for some functions could be frustrating, despite the overall aesthetic appeal.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined a V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. All RX models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard on the RX 350 and AWD available. The hybrid RX was exclusively AWD. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lackluster engine note and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport Handling package added features like adaptive suspension and sport steering, but the drive modes offered minimal differentiation in driving dynamics. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolated road noise. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 combined, with the hybrid RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined.

For 2023, Volvo introduced the B5 and B6 engines in the XC90, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5, with a turbocharger, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6, with a supercharger and turbo, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and provided smoother operation. The XC90 offered a pleasant driving experience, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled well, with minimal roll through corners, and maintained a quiet cabin. The brakes were solid and confidence-inspiring. The XC90's simplicity in driving dynamics, with limited drive modes, appealed to those seeking straightforward operation.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo space in the standard RX was 16.0 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 32.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row version provided only 7.45 cubic feet with all seats up, increasing to 58.48 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the cargo area had a high load-in height.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's front seats offered a peaceful and pleasant experience, but the minimalist design led to limited storage space for smaller items. The second row was comfortable, but accessing the third row was challenging, especially with the standard bench seat. The XC90 provided 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, and maxing out at 65.5 cubic feet. This capacity was less than some competitors. The XC90's smaller size contributed to its agile driving feel, despite being a three-row SUV.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch version available. The screens were positioned atop the center stack, creating access issues due to a lip in front of the display. The touchpad controller was hypersensitive and unintuitive, leading to frustration. Despite these challenges, the RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system ran on Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system's natural-language recognition enhanced the user experience, and commands could be issued via Google Home devices. However, many functions were controlled through the touchscreen, which could be frustrating. The minimalist design lacked physical buttons for some features, requiring screen interaction for adjustments.

The 2022 Lexus RX came standard with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional features were blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights but received four stars overall from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which supported Volvo's Pilot Assist technology for maintaining distance and lane position.