2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that conceals the tailpipes. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind the heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC60 shared its foundation with other Volvo models like the XC90 and S90. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design with a new digital instrument cluster, a portrait-oriented touchscreen, and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, while the Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a modernized design with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. The reduction in rear overhang and softer design lines contributed to a smaller appearance, complemented by a floating roof effect. The front showcased a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, leading to an elevated hood and upswept body sides. The rear featured a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. The RX's exterior styling was distinct yet familiar, ensuring it stood out from the previous generation. Inside, the RX offered a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The quality was high, with options for NuLuxe artificial leather, genuine leather, and various trims. The RX 350 was available in multiple trims, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. Both featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt electrical system and integrated starter generator, adding 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 also included an electric supercharger. The B5 delivered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 offering FWD or AWD and the B6 exclusively AWD. The XC60 B5 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, while the B6 achieved it in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 emphasized a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge provided 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine offered better performance at higher altitudes and improved fuel economy compared to the previous V6, though it lacked the same refinement. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive suspension. The RX 350 FWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and the AWD version in 7.2 seconds. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for FWD and 24 mpg for AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. Cargo space for mild-hybrid models was 21.6 cubic feet with rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them down, while plug-in hybrids offered slightly less. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package providing sport seat bolsters for better support. The RX 350 Luxury featured premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The F Sport Handling model had simulated leather seats and a sportier interior. The back seat was roomy with good leg support, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. Cargo space improved over the previous generation, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. The system supported over-the-air updates and was compatible with iPhones, though without Google profile syncing. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and connected services. Drive Connect offered Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles saved settings and preferences, and streaming services were available. The system required switching between data panels, a step back from previous technology. The RX featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional digital rearview mirror and key technology. A color head-up display was available, though visibility issues arose with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2022, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist system combined adaptive cruise control and lane centering.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist debuted. LSS+ 3.0 was impressive but had some flaws, such as issues with HUD visibility and curve-speed reduction technology.