2023 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, a nod to its origins in the 1980s SUV craze. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its roots, sharing underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma pickup. This design choice allowed the 4Runner to maintain its off-road capabilities, making it a niche vehicle for those who venture off the beaten path. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all designed with functionality in mind. Inside, the 4Runner's dash layout and overall design were reminiscent of the late 2000s, reflecting its last full redesign in 2009.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution in Volvo's design language. Gone were the days of boxy, utilitarian shapes; the XC90 presented a purposeful yet refined look. Its front end was stout and solid without being ostentatious, and the grille was assertive without being overly flashy. The "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, and the overall dimensions and shape, while still somewhat rectilinear, were far from the toaster-like designs of old. The XC90's interior was a blend of elegance and minimalism, featuring luxurious materials like Nappa leather and wood deco inlays, creating a serene and sophisticated cabin environment.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single engine option: a 4.0-liter V6 producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivered power to the rear wheels or available 4WD with low range. While reliable, the V6 felt underwhelming in most driving situations, except when off-road, where it excelled. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome on paved roads, with significant body roll and a rough suspension. However, off-road, the suspension absorbed rocks, bumps, and other obstacles effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured additional off-road capabilities like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, which was more than most car-based crossovers but less than compact pickups.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines, replacing the older T5 and T6 powertrains. Both new engines were 2.0-liter four-cylinders with mild-hybrid technology. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 engine, with both a supercharger and turbocharger, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and provided smoother operation. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission was responsive, and the vehicle handled well despite its size, with minimal body roll and good acceleration. The XC90's brakes were solid and confidence-inspiring. While it lacked extensive off-road capabilities, the XC90's driving experience was enjoyable and refined, with excellent insulation from road and wind noise.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space in the two-row version, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the second row. The three-row version provided slightly less space, with 88.8 cubic feet maximum and 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row. The third row, optional on select trims, reduced cargo space to just 9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window, making it easy to stow items in the back. While not the most spacious or efficiently packaged SUV, the 4Runner provided adequate room for gear and passengers.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had some space and storage limitations. The front seats were comfortable, but there was limited cubby space for smaller items, and the USB port for phone charging was inconveniently located in the small center console bin. The second row was reasonably spacious but challenging to adjust, and accessing the third row was difficult with the standard bench seat. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. This cargo capacity was less than some competitors, but the XC90's smaller size contributed to its car-like driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth connectivity, Satellite Radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward and benefited from physical buttons and dials, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. Optional upgrades included navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system. The infotainment system covered the basics and was easy to use, especially for those who appreciated a more analog driving experience.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen running Google OS, the first standard infotainment system of its kind. Google OS integrated Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience. The 12.3-inch driver information display also showed Google Maps. Natural-language recognition, powered by Google, enhanced the usability of voice commands. However, many key functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, which could be frustrating. While the minimalist design was visually appealing, it required some adjustment for users to get accustomed to the touchscreen controls.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner included the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance features, such as forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and three stars for rollover testing. It had not been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) at the time of review.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS in 2022. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Volvo's Pilot Assist technology, which helped maintain distance from the car ahead and provided gentle steering assistance. These features contributed to the XC90's reputation as one of the safest vehicles on the road.