2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's history of boxy, utilitarian vehicles. The exterior of the XC90 had a dynamic stance, with a sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches that conveyed an athletic, poised readiness. Its body, slightly tilted forward, hinted at a powerful forward motion. The design integrated heritage elements, like the upright grille reminiscent of the classic 245 wagon, and modern touches like the LED headlights known as "Thor's Hammer." The superior fit and finish, combined with luxurious touches like the crystal gear selector handle, reinforced its luxury vehicle status.

Inside, the XC90 embraced "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetics with natural wood and metal trim that provided an authentic, high-quality feel. The commitment to eliminating leather by 2030 had already begun, with options for tailored wool blend upholstery, although our test car featured optional Nappa leather seats, which proved invaluable during a hot, humid week.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid had adopted a more angular, robust look since its redesign in 2019. The trapezoidal grille and angled bodywork provided a heftier presence, which was in line with the newer designs of other competitive models like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50. The interior of the RAV4 Hybrid continued the angular theme with a multi-tiered dashboard that added visual depth, while the layout followed a typical structure with an infotainment touchscreen mounted atop and physical buttons for primary controls.

Materials used in the RAV4 Hybrid were average for its class, with a blend of hard plastics and modestly padded surfaces. The rubbery, urethane steering wheel on lower trims felt somewhat cheap but could be upgraded to a leather-wrapped version in higher trims, enhancing tactile satisfaction. The build quality, however, was sturdy with no noticeable creaks on rough roads.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three distinct powertrains. The T5 model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 variant enhanced this with supercharging, achieving 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. For those seeking hybrid options, the T8 plug-in hybrid showcased a combination of a supercharged/turbocharged engine and an electric motor, delivering a robust 455 hp and 523 lb-ft.

The T5 models came with front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, while all T6 and T8 models included standard all-wheel drive, the latter utilizing the electric motor for the rear wheels. All XC90s employed an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy varied, with the T5 FWD achieving 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined, and the T6 AWD managing 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway/22 mpg combined. The T8 hybrid balanced fuel efficiency and electric performance, achieving up to 66 MPGe and a possible 36 miles of electric range.

Driving the T8 Inscription was a delight with responsive, smooth acceleration and minimal body roll, making it feel more nimble than its size might suggest. The electric motor significantly contributed to early torque delivery, enhancing the driving experience without turbo lag.

In comparison, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid utilized a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor/generator, driving a total output of 219 horsepower through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). A second electric motor drove the rear wheels, facilitating all-wheel drive. The RAV4 Hybrid performed adequately, reaching 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, outpacing its non-hybrid counterpart but slightly trailing behind rivals like the Kia Sportage Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid.

Braking in the RAV4 Hybrid was smooth, transitioning seamlessly between regenerative and physical braking. The suspension offered a balanced ride, absorbing bumps well without sacrificing handling. The driving dynamics were competent, though not particularly thrilling, favoring reliability and simplicity.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was versatile, offering six- and seven-passenger configurations. The third row was easily accessible via one-handed sliding second-row seats. Nonetheless, the third-row seating was more suitable for children due to limited legroom and thigh support. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 15.9 cubic feet available behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a generous 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

The XC90 also featured ample storage solutions throughout the interior and had a towing capability ranging between 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. This offered a solid balance for families requiring both passenger and cargo space.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid accommodated adults comfortably in both front and rear seats, although taller passengers might find the rear seat cushions lacking in thigh support. Rear passenger space was marginally less compared to some rivals, yet still adequate. Cargo capacity was robust at 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, only slightly less than the non-hybrid model. This was comparable to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage, which offered 39.5 and 39.3 cubic feet respectively.

Interior storage in the RAV4 Hybrid was practical, with a dashboard shelf, phone tray, large cupholders, and decent-sized door pockets. However, the wireless charging pad option faced availability issues, likely due to supply chain constraints.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which provided a tablet-like interface and was intuitive for tech-savvy users. However, it exhibited some glitches and slow responses, working better with Apple CarPlay. The central nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen and the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel offered clear visuals and easy access to information. The $1,650 Advanced package offered a head-up display and other premium features, while the $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins audio system upgrade delivered exceptional sound quality. USB ports for both front (USB-A) and rear (USB-C) passengers, as well as a WiFi hotspot, ensured modern connectivity.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid introduced a significantly improved infotainment system with sharper graphics and logical menus. Most models featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen, with higher trims offering a 10.5-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though wireless charging remained an option. The system also supported over-the-air updates and included a WiFi hotspot and remote vehicle monitoring.

For audio, the base six-speaker system was standard, while the top Limited trim included an 11-speaker JBL system for enhanced audio performance.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of prioritizing safety, integrating features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous functionality on highways, significantly easing long drives. Both the IIHS and NHTSA highly rated the XC90, with it earning a Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating, respectively.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid also achieved high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA for overall and side crash protection. The IIHS ranked it as a Top Safety Pick. Toyota's Safety Sense 2.5 suite was standard, encompassing forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added a blind-spot monitor, parking sensors, and optional surround-view cameras, enhancing safety and driver assistance.