2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, with its redesigned exterior, maintained a familiar aesthetic that was hard to distinguish from its non-hybrid counterpart. The RX 350h Luxury model, in particular, showcased a sleek Iridium silver finish with 21-inch wheels, yet lacked any overt hybrid branding, which was a preference for those who favored subtlety. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling, signaling its performance-oriented nature. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalist design with fewer controls and an improved infotainment system, offering a modern touch. The RX 350h Luxury's interior was adorned with Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, exuding luxury, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance featured a sportier all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum accents.

In contrast, the 2024 Volvo XC90 presented a more traditional luxury SUV appearance, with a subdued and earthy color palette that emphasized practicality and sustainability. The XC90's exterior was complemented by various wheel designs, up to 21 inches, and a Bright theme with chrome and polished metal accents. Inside, the XC90's design was somewhat dated but featured rich materials, especially in the Ultimate trim. The wool-blend upholstery and ventilated Nappa leather options, along with the Orrefors crystal shift knob and natural wood trim, added a touch of class. Volvo's attention to detail in color and materials allowed for a personalized experience, catering to discerning customers.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two distinct hybrid models. The RX 350h, with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving an estimated 36 mpg in combined driving. It accelerated to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, providing a balance of efficiency and performance. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, on the other hand, delivered a more exhilarating experience with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It reached 60 mph in 5.9 seconds but sacrificed some fuel efficiency, averaging 27 mpg. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension, upgraded brakes, and rear-wheel steering contributed to its athleticism, making it a joy to drive.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor, producing a total of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for 32 miles of electric-only driving and a five-second sprint to 60 mph. The XC90 Recharge T8 averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode, but real-world testing showed a slightly lower figure of 24.5 mpg. The SUV's performance was lively, with the electric motor providing instant torque, but its handling was more in line with a luxury SUV than a performance vehicle. The ride quality was firm, and the steering lacked sharpness, making it less engaging on twisty roads.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in comfort and practicality. The RX 350h Luxury model featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather, heating, and ventilation, along with a three-zone climate control system. The RX 500h F Sport Performance offered eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters and standard-grade leather. The hybrid's battery placement under the rear seat provided excellent leg support and legroom, though rear headroom was slightly compromised. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in its base Core trim, came well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added a sense of openness, while higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90's seating configuration allowed for seven passengers, with a comfortable second-row bench and a more accommodating third row than expected. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 65.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, a significant upgrade that required subscription payments after trial periods. The Lexus Interface offered features like cloud-based navigation, an Intelligent Assistant, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system had some drawbacks, such as limited screen multitasking and reflections on the display. The available head-up display with dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel was innovative but had usability issues, especially for those wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. These features were complimentary for four years, after which subscriptions were required. The system was intuitive and user-friendly, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an available head-up display. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system provided an exceptional listening experience, enhancing the overall technology package.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). It included features like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance, and curve-speed reduction for adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist was a notable feature, automatically slowing the vehicle to maintain a safe following distance. However, some aspects of the system, such as the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had room for improvement.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS in 2023. While the XC90's ADAS features were comprehensive, they lacked innovation compared to competitors. The SUV included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, but it struggled with certain road conditions. Despite these challenges, the XC90's safety features operated smoothly overall, maintaining Volvo's reputation for safety.