2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery. The XC90's design and materials conveyed a sense of quality and luxury, with thoughtful details like the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights and a crystal gear selector handle.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, based on the SR5 Premium trim, celebrated its heritage with retro body stripes and bronze accents. This special edition added a four-wheel-drive system and unique styling elements, including a heritage grille and bronze wheels. The 4Runner's design evoked a strong Southern California vibe, reminiscent of truck-based SUVs from the past. Its interior, while functional and solid, featured plenty of plastic but was equipped with easy-to-use controls. The 4Runner's appeal lay in its rugged, off-road-ready stance, making it a favorite for those seeking adventure and a connection to the outdoors.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the T5 model's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model enhanced this with a supercharged and turbocharged version, delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, achieving a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The XC90's powertrains were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with T5 models available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while T6 and T8 models were all-wheel drive only. The T8's electric motor drove the rear wheels, providing a smooth and spirited driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 FWD achieving up to 25 mpg combined, while the T8 offered 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, generating 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and came with either a part-time or full-time 4WD system, depending on the trim. Despite its rugged capabilities, the 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 17 mpg combined. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, with features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. It also offered off-road enhancements such as locking differentials and a Crawl Control system. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 provided flexible seating configurations, accommodating six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 offered up to 85.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, and a towing capacity between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage options and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the cabin's airy feel. The XC90's air-conditioning system performed admirably during hot and humid conditions, ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a unique power-down rear window, providing excellent ventilation when combined with the sunroof and side windows. While entry and exit required some effort for shorter individuals, the seats were comfortable, with options for heated and ventilated leather in higher trims. The 4Runner's second-row seating was roomy, offering good legroom and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. However, the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner offered 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet with the second row folded. The cargo area included storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet, with an optional sliding floor for easier loading.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen offering tablet-like functionality. While intuitive, the system was occasionally slow to respond, but Apple CarPlay improved its performance. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. The XC90 also offered USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care app for remote vehicle control.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner's technology was more traditional, with analog gauges and an eight-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with available connected services and a WiFi hotspot. The 4Runner's controls were user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons. The audio system, whether standard or upgraded to JBL, required adjustments for optimal sound quality. The voice recognition system performed well, handling most commands accurately.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner included essential safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and a three-star rating for front passenger protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS rated the 4Runner as Marginal for driver protection in the small overlap frontal-impact test.